While I agree there is no blanket rule on modded gear, I do not see a problem with modified gear from some the known people, ie Stan Warren, Steve Huntley. These people have been at the game for some time. What I would stray away from is the the hobbyist (home tweaker) who has too much time on his hands, solder, and a soldering gun. Ive been to some audiophiles homes to look into purchasing equipment, If I see a work table and lots of reisitors, caps, and parts lying around, I wouldnt touch what that person was selling.