I installed Audio Note Tantalum non-magnetic new version resistors in my left Consonance M800SE Monoblock. I replaced all but two (value wasn't available). For those I used Takman Rey resistors. Total of about 15 resistors(30 total ouch on cost).The right Monoblock still has the original Russian Metal films. Great having monoblocks so you can compare. Checked volume with sound level meter and found it was 1db lower on modified Monoblock than the right one (after every mod I've done the volume is alway lower). Adjusted level on Herron Preamp 1 click to equal.
Modified Amp sounded dull and lifeless at first. After about 15 hours much better. Warm and very detailed. Unmodified Monoblock is brighter, sounds like a transistor radio in comparison. Maybe that is too critical, I like the modified one better. Metal films are known for being bright. Now I'll have to put 6 hours into updating the right Monoblock.
Note there were 2 upgrade kits available for the the DIY Audio Ella amp (same design as the M800SE).
Level 1 was with Kiwame resistors. Level 2 was Audio Note Tantalum magnetic resistors. I am not sure what type of resistors were in the original non upgrade kit. Maybe the Russian MLT's. That is why I went for expensive Audio Note resistors.
Anyone near Bergen County NJ and what to hear the difference let me know.
Modified Amp sounded dull and lifeless at first. After about 15 hours much better. Warm and very detailed. Unmodified Monoblock is brighter, sounds like a transistor radio in comparison. Maybe that is too critical, I like the modified one better. Metal films are known for being bright. Now I'll have to put 6 hours into updating the right Monoblock.
Note there were 2 upgrade kits available for the the DIY Audio Ella amp (same design as the M800SE).
Level 1 was with Kiwame resistors. Level 2 was Audio Note Tantalum magnetic resistors. I am not sure what type of resistors were in the original non upgrade kit. Maybe the Russian MLT's. That is why I went for expensive Audio Note resistors.
Anyone near Bergen County NJ and what to hear the difference let me know.