companies that modify equipment...opinions

"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.

A totally over the top statement, IMO.

I've modded Mark Levinson, Audionote, Apogee, Bremen, Dodson, Electrocompaniet, Meridian, TACT, DEQX and many others. DEQX adopted some my mods and gave me credit.

I also earned best sound of show for two years at RMAF with modded amps.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio