Audible Illusions vs. Audio Research?

I have read horror stories about the Audible Illusions service department, which should also be a consideration. It is a shame as for years I have read about the virtues of this pre amp.

You may want to try a Rogue 99 Magnum which has a remote controlled volume and easily compete with the preamps mentioned and they have excellent service as I have experienced.

Audible Illusions L-1 works great for a rock system. Has all the characteristics of the ss pre but adds some warmth and air. And easy to change the sound of the pre with swapping of tubes. Actually i have one i am putting up for sale thats in great condition with 2 pairs of Nos tubes. Give me an email if interested. Good Luck !

I'd also recommend the ARC LS 15 or 16 models. They'll do what you want with little euphonics. No losses anywhere and extremely transparent.

As far as upgrading my CDP, does anyone have any suggestions based on my system & listening habbits?

Well Ive owned audio reserach LsI and Ls2Bmk2. Also Audible illusions M3. The audible illusions dosent have balanced output. No Big Deal Its not true balanced from in to out anyway.( AR ). Also the m3 dosnt invert phase which means you need to hook up your speakers backwards to be correct. they did this to cut down on circut parts. All the preamps are great the audible illusion is I think more transparent but the bass is lacking defintion at the lowest octave. All 3 are great. Was driving krell ksa250/300S amps on Bw801#3
My choice M3.