Audible Illusions modulus 3A, what would be the next level of up grade?

i see that you have a analogue rig, i suggest you upgrade to Backerts Lab pre Extreme model. it’s utterly transparent and almost neutral with a touch of velvet smoothness or warmth(depending on rolled tubes), it would let through the tones /dynamics and emotion in your upstream gear with clarity and vividness better than Audible Illusions 3A or B. Trust your convictions, if you like zero feedback in Audible Illusions, Backert Lab surpass AL several folds. i’m amaze they achieve clean power supply even without a separate PS chassis. Next upgrade your cartridge, then your poweramp. Approach someone or dealer for loan or ask some other senior experience audiophile, i guess they would also say the same thing. i have a 2nd system with a pair $1200 speakers but sound like a $8-9k system, if you can match the strengths of each gear in the chain. Report this

I know this thread is a bit old, but I wanted to let you know how things are going for me and my Modulus 3B.  First, it is an amazing preamp.  With that said, AI is really dropping the ball now on things.  When I ordered my preamp I was told it would take 3 weeks.  It took 5 months.  Worth the wait, based on the quality of the sound.  Back in June of this year I decided to order a set of replacement tubes to have on hand.  It is now 9/10.  Still no tubes.  I was told when I place my order all they had to do was match them up and I would have them in a week or so.  I have called at least 20 times and get a different excuse each time.  The tubes were sent.  We are waiting on a batch of tubes.  They are matching the tubes now.  The tech that does the matching is on vacation.  The secretary is out to lunch and she will have to see if the tubes were sent.  etc, etc, etc.  AI make amazing stuff, but they are now at a point of not being able to even send out a set up tubes.  So sad, since the product is so good.  Personally I am of the opinion that the people that are in charge there have reached an age where they are just letting things slide, and since they make enough money to get by, the rest doesn't matter.  IMHO!  

Having owned 3 AI preamps including the 3B, I agree.  I believe it is a 3 person operation at most with Art Ferris (semi retired) , a tech and secretary.  I am lucky in that I never needed service.   I waited 4 months for tubes that never arrived.  I bought the 6h23neb tubes (matched) from the tube store and never had a problem and they were dead quiet.  Also, received them in 4 business days!

I just bought a L3A from Art that was a dealer demo.  He completely refurbished it to make it in as new condition.  It took a month to receive it and several phone calls,  but I honestly expected it.  I think the whole shooting match is Art, his wife and the tech. Anyway, it was a great deal and Art was responsive.  I am pleased with the L3A and M3B I own.  Musical, reliable and affordable.