Audible Illusions: how good really

I have an L-1 which is the 3A without the phono stage. It is awesome and is very transparent. And that's the point.

I have auditioned at least 10 pre-amps and I now have the latest version of the A I M3A.I also have the best recommended tubes in it.Of the 4 others that I have owned and of the rest that I have auditioned ,this is by far the best.The L I while sounding good in its own right is not the same animal and has not kept up with all of the upgrades the the M3A has had in regular production models.

I've had a AI2 d for 6 years and no problems at all. The 3a w/phono if you need it can't be beat. Most pre-amps in that price range are solid state and that is enough to make your decision right there. I think you would find greater pride of ownership in a tube product vs SS.

I own the M3, which is basically the same as the M3A but w/o the step attenuator. I bought this used off the web w/o an audition after reading all the rave reviews. Let me just say that the sound is very technical vs. one that is musical. Don't get me wrong, it's very good but not great. I think this preamp has all the characteristics that the typical audiophile wants - imaging, soundstaging, etc. I personally prefer something that is a bit musical with some soul. I auditioned a Cary 98 preamp that, in my opinion, sounded much more musical. Guess it comes down to what you're looking for. Regards,

The A I M3A has upgrades at least once each year.The latest M3A has the edge on all previous ones and used can be found for around $1600.Try before you buy.Good luck !