audible illusions m3a

Is it really that bad?

I also had an AI preamp, the best phono stage I ever had was in it. I sold it before ever having any problems.

If it's not warranty work I would try Ric at EVS. 
http://tweakaudio.com/EVS-2/index.html

He used to build those preamps when he worked at AI. He does not however have a very high opinion of Art and has some rather interesting stories of how Art acquired the company.

No personal experience, was interested at one time, to be honest the output impedance was a serious concern for me, but the infamous reputation for customer support ultimately scared me off.