2. amps-preamps
  3. 163662-14697

Atma-Sphere Owners, MP-3 Upgrade

So I finally got around to doing the Caddock Resistor Upgrade in my MP-3. I was surprised how everything was just that much better. The Transparency and Soundstage was a decent gain. The sparkle and twinkle of certain instruments was a definite improvement. The Drums was noticeably better. And pianos, sax, and strings were better. Funny thing I didn’t believe in my system I could improve upon things a great deal. Even though each thing was better. And not a huge step forward in each. But when you put it all together. All these little subtleties. All the nicely add details. The presentation. The added depth.... All adds up to a really really nice upgrade. Caddocks are well worth it. I’ve got almost 50 listening hours on them now... I wished I had done this long ago. If you have Atma-Sphere gear. I’d seriously consider the caddocks.  I’ve incrementally upgraded UV-1, m60’s, MA-1’s and now my MP-3. Each up grade has added value beyond cost. 
pstores
gdnrbob
4,481 posts
 
@rsf507 .
The whole point of the Caddock resistors is attaining that subtle nudge to 'perfection'.
Is it worth the money'? - is a question that only an owner can decide.
As I said, I own the Ayre KX-R. It can be upgraded to Twenty status, but that will cost five figures.
Will I do it? Probably if finances allow.
Should I do it?  Probably not.
But, when you get on the Audio Train, sometimes you have to change your destination.
Bob
rsf507
2,380 posts
 
Well @gdnrbob when the designer/owner says it's not worth the dollars I'd think most folks would take the suggestion. 
clio09
3,362 posts
 
The resistors are made to Ralph's specifications so they are not your off the shelf Caddock resistors. I think the price reflects that. I had them in my S-30, but my M-60s do not have them.
gdnrbob
4,481 posts
 
@clio09 , 
Did you notice any difference between the Caddock upgrade and stock- Assuming you upgraded.
B
pstores's avatar
pstores OP
190 posts
 
I have talked to Ralph on this subject a lot. I have had M60’s upgraded, MA-1’s upgraded and now MP-3. Ralph has never said to me that the Caddocks aren’t worth it. If that was the case I doubt he’d sell them. What he has said.... Is that there are better upgrades to do first. Bigger bang for the buck. The caddocks are just that. A finishing touch. And believe me they are worth it. I have them in my Amps. MA-1’s along with all the other upgrades. And now the MP-3. Almost every Upgrade I’ve had done, I did in steps. Months to a year between each. That’s the luxury of living 20 minutes from his shop. No shipping. So yes I am quest aware of what improvements have been made sonically with each upgrade. Nothing else has changed in my system. And my system is for listening to and not looks. I average 2 hours a night M-F. 10-12 hours Saturday and Sundays with the covid stuff.  But it’s really for everyone to make a choice. Is it worth it or not. My last upgrade will be the Caddocks added to my Volume control. Now that gets pricey. I’ll report back when I eventually get that done. Probably in the spring. 
More to discover