Well, I'm really not thinking too much in terms of shortcomings with my present system, just looking to wring everything I can from it. I am hoping to improve the width and depth of my soundstage by replacing the Mod 3a though.
I've changed every component multiple times since re-entering this hobby last fall and discovering the joy of Audiogon. I've owned a couple of tube amps over the years, most recently a Cary V12r. In comparison, I find the Phi 30/30 to sound less warm, but extremely natural. Instrumental timbres are sometimes startlingly realistic, particularly acoustic instruments such as guitar, piano and drums. To my ears, the amp is surprisingly fast, particularly with percussion strikes and listening to vibraphones. Bass is not particularly deep in my system, but very musical and satisfying. The top end is detailed and extended, but also airy, and never shrill. Female vocals are palpably lush and real, as is midrange in general. There is a nice sense of space around each instrument Since I got my Trentes and the PHI 30/30 at the same time, it's hard to know what qualities to attribute to each component.
I like not having to bias the amp. It's also beautiful to look at. Having a young son, I also like that the tubes are enclosed. I suspect that my system would come more alive with a more powerful amp, but most of my listening is acoustic jazz, late at night, at relatively low volumes.
