Doh! Modding vs. Selling

I have been modding equipment for many years and don't worry about resale as I rarely sell, in fact I usually purchase used so the previous owner has already taken the depreciation 'hit'.

In most cases I do the mods in steps rather than all at once, this way I can understand what each does.  It also keeps me from flipping equipment as with most mods you get a new and generally better sound.  Of course there are risks if your mod isn't implemented correctly and you then have repairs to do, but that is part of the 'fun'.

I love the smell of solder in the morning...

@ddzstereo   Do you perform the modifications yourself?  If so, I envy you your circuit knowledge and soldering skills.  Regarding doing mods in stages, that's kind of what I did with my power amp.  I had it modded modestly the first time, upgraded 2 years later and then just had a major rebuild done 18 years after that.  The latest mods. have just burned in after a month of almost constant use.  Things have come along way in the last two decades!

I mod everything I have owned or will own for better sound to me. The parts quality in our high end gear would shock most of you. Not commensurate with the price. Not even close. I can think of no better way to greatly improve your existing SQ for the money.

No problem selling for me. I have sold lots of modified gear over the years. Many informed folks know that well executed upgrades can really improve the sound of an already good piece of gear.

I can see why some are nervous as this is certainly something only a minority of us would feel comfortable with. Good news is there are plenty open minded enough to buy. In addition, it seems DIY interest is growing in this hobby as folks are realizing they can save money and achieve great sound. Many of my audio friends have learned how to make great sounding cables for reasonable money.
Part of the fun!

@ddzstereo.  I also love the smell of solder in the morning! 

Hifiman5 - yes I do my own mods.  Although I have an electronics background my first significant learnings came in the late 80s from Audio Amateur.  The learning process never ends and there are plenty of enthusiasts at diyaudio.com or audioasylum.com