Audible Illusions Modulous 3A & L2 Line Stage User

I used both for a considerable amount of time and the only thing they don't do as well as the mega buck preamps is play loud without a little bit of dynamic conjestion. Sometimes this can be a moot point with the right set of tubes. As for transparency, soundstaging and the like, they are right in line for a lot less money.
You know, they're only so many ways to design a tube preamp. AI uses the less is better approach choosing not to use a tube buffer circuit. This is why they are a little rougher on tubes but the sound is worth the omission.
These were some of the best preamps available back in the 90's and still hold up well in direct comparison to the newer models. I wouldn't hesitate to purchase one. They are a steal at the price they sell for used.
I will add this in defense of AI's service, they are good people who try to do the right thing. However, they are a small company and they must deal with a lot getiing these units out. They do have a good trade-in program also. Call Art and have a chat. He's a good guy IMO.

Imin2u: I can explain it. Tube gear using small signal tubes such as 12AX7's or 6922's is generally best left on 24/7. Quoting from the "TIPS & ADVICE" section of the owner's manual to my VAC Rennaisance 140/140 Mk. III tube amps:

"How long should tubes last? It has long been known in professional circles (and probably now forgotten) that a tube such as the 12AX7 will display BETTER performance characteristics after TWO YEARS of CONTINUAL operation than when it was new. In normal use it is not unusual for a low level tube to last 5 years or longer. Output tubes [i.e., power tubes used in tube power amps] are another story, as they are continuously providing significant amounts of current." (Emphasis original).

The expansion and contraction small signal tubes undergo as gear heats up and cools down upon being turned on and then turned off takes its toll over time. In addition, the voltage rush at turn-on is especially hard on small signal tubes. Tube gear with tube rectification is a lot easier on tubes at start-up, and some tube gear has a soft-start feature to soften the blow, but with a few exceptions, it's just better, for both tube life and for sound quality, to leave tube preamps on 24/7.

After three to five years, the tubes should be replaced, as they do start to "lose their luster", but they won't fail if used this way.

Regards to All Who Answer My Query on these 2 units,

If I didn't mention it before I want to use either of these a a Pre for my McIntosh MA6900. I also recently purchased a Cary CD 306 SACD PLayer, have Mc MR85 Tuner, ProAc Monitors, Audience cabling througout etc, blah blah blah.

According to some [& not others] there seems tobe a quality contol issue that maybe has been resolved with these untis & but I've also read they are wonderful pieces of equiment so ...

Well as with my other post/query as to the compatabliity of the Cary SPL2002 & my Mc. you've all provided a great wealth of experience & helpful knowledge & suggestions about these 2 pieces of gear. But as with my other post, this has answered alot of questions & raised some more.
So I might just have to do more research as to possible companionship with my Mc as some have said the PRe section is quite good & up to the task [maybe I do or maybe I don't need to upgrade @ the moment?], could be better as with most things in life but as I was looking in the $1000-1500 range max, I think I need to do more research or Q&A [ diff. to demo as limited options to listen locally.]

I really appreciate your time & effort & has helped me quite alot.

Regards

Charanda

If you run Amplifiers with high sensitivity say anything under 1 1/2 volt pass on the unit. i owned 4 of these, The only way you will get it right is the L-1 Or L-2 because of the balance controls. But its you time and money so have fun.

I have owned both. The 3A stepped attenuators are a pain.
To large of volume steps. I listen to piano music. All
recordings have an absolute volume. So many times the music was either to soft or to loud. So, I sold the 3A. But, fabulous sound. I currently own the L2. (Purchased
from BigTee---A great person). I have no desire to own another preamp. Fabulous sounding. The stock tubes EH6922 are flat sounding. So do some tube rolling.