Preamp modifications - who would you use?

Well...when it came down to it the potential pitfalls you mention definitely weighed in as a factor in choosing not to mod my LL2.

However, the modded LL2 I described had the best quality upgrade parts such as Dueland coupling caps, Eurocap bypass caps, DACT attenuators, RAM diode bridges, and Jensen electrolytics. The owner did not change the design and he did the work himself - a first rate job based on the pictures I saw. Unfortunately, I am not located in the same area and have not heard it. As you point out, modding includes risks - and the LL2 does sound great in its stock form. However, I would definitely buy that modded unit if it were ever posted for sale.

Mitch2, Unlike with cars, swapping out parts in audio components, even for superior parts, does not guarantee improved performance. One reason is that, even when you choose parts rated same value, they don’t operate identically to the part they replaced. This can have a cascade effect on the parts around them. Other parts might not now be operating optimally. It’s a lot like taking medication. There can be unintended side effects.

Modifiers, like Dan Wright, who choose a component, study it and spend a good long time tinkering and testing, are a whole different story. Unless you choose a modifier who specializes in modifying your particular preamp, you’re unlikely to get that kind of analysis and testing.

Since the previous poster mentioned Dan Wright, I'd like to weigh in again with the whole idea of modifying equipment. The OP asked about preamps. That is one of Joseph Chows specialties. I have a Dan Wright modified player as front end. Does it sound better than stock? To me a resounding 'yes'. Is it superior to the Sony 5400ES it replaced? Again, that's affirmative. How about in comparison to the Sony TRL modified by Paul Weitzel? The TRL player sounded better, and I wished I hadn't sold it.

So the notion that an audiophile is going to feel something sounds better just because they paid to have something modded is just not true ... at least not in my case. Also the idea that something - no matter what it is - cannot be improved from stock flies in the face of innovation. Better parts, new technology, and improved design approaches can sometimes take a base model to levels the original designer never even dreamed about.

It is generally true that one will not reap anywhere near the value of what they paid for the combined cost of the gear plus the mod - on re-sale of a modified unit. So if one elects to go that route, be prepared to eat the cost of the mod. But if you don't mind that, and you're looking to for the best sound, I say go for it!

Not trying to start a p---ing contest, but that's my 2 cents.