Audible Illusions Modulus 3A an upgrade?

The M3a is a lot better than people give it credit for being. It has been around a while but offers a high level of performance that I personally think is untouchable for the money used. It is a definite "Classic" for good reason. It is still being manufactured for a list of $2795. You can certainly spend a lot more and get a lot less.

I would look for a used c-j 17LS or 17LS2.

Good Luck!*>)

I would keep the electronics and upgrade the speakers. The JBLs are a long way from high-end.

I had the M3A but was significantly bettered by the Modwright 9.0SE in that same price range. It even beat out the CJ 17LS I owned as well, which I never expected. The 17LS was very pleasant, but the Modwright is much more resolving, dynamic, and the soundstaging wider and deeper. The M3A also is hard on tubes, and if you ever need service, you can kiss it goodbye for at least 2-3 months. (I had to have the attenuator changed because of noise)

I'd suggest a used VTL Ultimate which is a better preamp than the Audible Illusions. The VTL can be fitted with an excellent tubed phono stage for not a of money if you find a used linestage.

Tube upgrading in the VTL is easy unlike the Audible Ill as the AI runs its tubes "hot" and can be difficult to upgrade to NOS tubes in. In fact, you should only use tubes supplied by a professional that knows they are going in the AI.

The AI also has an independent power supply. It is attached to the preamp with a non detachable cable and this cable is not that long.

A used Airtight ATC1 is an excellent choice, too, and has an excellent phono stage (for high output cartridges, low output require stepup).

Beware of used Convergent Audio Technology preamps. The manufacturer, Ken Stevens, does NOT want owners doing independent service/upgrades. All the caps are affixed to the PC board very, very well. Ken was not interested at all in telling us how to remove them. He was happy for us to send it back so he can service it. I sold the thing immediately.