Possibly more than any other preamplifier, the Audible Illusions Modulus 3A established itself as a classic in it's own time. The new Modulus 3B elevates that level of performance to a whole new realm.
The M3B adds a host of features and performance enhancements.
- Relay Switching – signal does not pass through switches resulting in better clarity and definition.
-
Upgraded inter-stage coupling capacitors - All capacitors in the
signal path are film and foil or Teflon for better resolution and lower
noise.
- Larger power transformer for the inboard power supply results in improved performance in all areas.
- Cleaner, more direct signal path results in greater clarity, lower noise and improved resolution.
- New audio taper on attenuators for more precise matching with a broader range of components.
- User adjustable gain settings.
The M3B
is a deceptively simple design, employing a single gain stage, class A
triode circuit utilizing no cathode followers or buffers to degrade the
sound. It is a basic design concept that has remained a focus of the
Modulus circuit topology since its inception and is one of the reasons
for the sparkling sonic clarity and resolution.
Inside
you'll find a host of superb parts and pieces, along with excellent
quality workmanship and great attention to detail. The list of parts
includes: Teflon solder mask, OFC circuit board traces, custom film
capacitors and custom stepped attenuators using high quality metal film
resistors.
What is it that makes the M3B
such a standout? I'd have to say it is a balance of strengths with few,
very few, weaknesses. A strong suit has always been the soundstage, and
the M3B competes with most any preamp (almost regardless of
price) in this area. It develops an absolutely holographic panorama,
that is truly a delight to experience.
In sum, it is difficult to fault the Modulus 3B
on any count. Look for yourself, but I doubt you'll find a preamp with
this level of performance, build-quality and reliability at anywhere
near the price.
Since
the product began life in 1983, more than 18,300 M3A units have been
sold worldwide! Quite an accomplishment, and certainly worthy of the
popularity, the M3A stands on its own as a superb audiophile component
of the highest caliber. The M3B continues that tradition, building upon the strengths of the legendary M3A.
The M3B
is a full function preamp complete with phono input that will accept
any cartridge with 1mV of output, or greater. For those using low output
moving coil cartridges, optional Gold Phono Boards are available for
increased gain. Designed by the legendary John Curl, the ultra-quiet
pre-preamp boards give the M3B the ability to handle even very low
output MC cartridges with low noise and superb resolution.