companies that modify equipment...opinions

"Okay guys, and gals, who in our audio world is paying automobile mechanics to modify their cars?"

A lot more that you might think. There are lots of performance and aesthetic mods for cars available. There have been for 25 years.

I used to mod electronics, for about 12 years. Lots of my modded components are still out there in use and in demand. I get requests every couple of weeks to mod something, but I have to turn them away.

The thing with mods is to find a PROFESSIONAL, usually an engineer or tech from industry, not a parts swapper. Knowing quality parts is a must, but the ability to reverse-engineer a design to improve it and then do a quality job of soldering etc. is critical. There are a lot of hacks out there, just like in the cable business. Even a lot of engineeers cannot solder well.

Mods are essential IMO for most stock gear. It always has shortcomings, usually in the power delivery, resulting in lackluster dynamics or HF roll-off or both. Tube gear is particularly bad for this. Tube designers dont usually pay much attention to the power delivery, as it is less critical than for SS, but they should. Good tube design competes head-to-head with good SS design, only the midrange is just better. Most of the time, you end-up with "tubiness", bass flabbiness and HF roll-off. Tubes dont have to sound like this. Digital gear is also pretty bad stock. Clocks have high jitter and again, the power subsystem sucks. Installing properly a better clock in a Transport makes a world of difference. Also, Most S/PDIF output circuits are poorly designed and dont even meet spec. Only the most experienced Modders can do these mods however.

Everthing that is not Empirical Audio in my system is modded, everything. Stock is just not good enough.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio

"Just buy the round peg to start with."

Good luck to you. You will not find it. Even the most expensive gear needs mods IMO. This is because even the most talented designer is not an expert in every discipline. Most companies should look outside for consulting or licensing help, but they dont.

"Personally, I stay away from third party mods. What happens when something breaks or has a problem? "

Good modders warranty their work and repair after the warranty expires. I did it for 12 years or more. Just ask my customers.

"Do you send it to the original maker, the modder, or both to get things fixed the way you want?"

Depends. I used to fix most everything, but if someone really fried a Parasound JC-1 for instance, then it would go back to Parasound. They have an agreement with me. I am a dealer that only sells modded JC-1s.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio

Mods are the very best way to get world class sound for few dollars if you can do them yourself. Great fun for me with huge sonic gains and for little money. I have built and or modified all my gear to great effect.

I suppose its a lot like tweaking except not as easily reversible if things do not work out for the better as intended. There is always more performance that can be squeezed out of anything. THe question is always does it add value? And what are the alternatives? No doubt most mods done right for the right reasons should only take things forward. As should an equipment upgrade as well. It all depends. There are advantages and disadvantages as with most things.

Even the most expensive gear needs mods IMO.

A totally over the top statement, IMO.