I recently bought an MP-1 MkII.2. My understanding is that power supply mods in the MkIII improve dynamics and ease. The unit I bought was unoptioned except for REL teflon caps in the LS. I added Mundorf Silver/Gold couplers and Caddock TF020 resistors in the phono section, which brought the phono stage up to a much higher level. If you've got the scratch for this unit, buy it with the V-Cap/Caddock options.
The MP-1 is a fine sounding LS & phono stage if you can live without a remote control. I'd venture that's its probably the best integrated LS/phono stage available and a relative bargain if you need both capabilities. It easily surpasses my previous BAT VK5i/P10 combo, particularly in terms of clarity & extension at the frequency extremes. It's dimensional, airy and smooth without any tube affectations. There are 10 6SN7s in the LS and 8 12AT7s in the phono stage but surprisingly it runs fairly cool. Finding good low-noise 12AT7s is not easy. For now I'm using medium-quiet Chinese 12AT7s sourced from Atma-Sphere. I wouldn't use a cartridge less than .5mV without the optional Jensen step-up transformer. For 6SN7s I'm using EH and NOS Raytheon (sound great) & will probably try Ken-Rad, which some owners prefer.
Also, Atma-Sphere customer service is fantasic. They are very supportive of customers who buy new or used.
The MP-1 is a fine sounding LS & phono stage if you can live without a remote control. I'd venture that's its probably the best integrated LS/phono stage available and a relative bargain if you need both capabilities. It easily surpasses my previous BAT VK5i/P10 combo, particularly in terms of clarity & extension at the frequency extremes. It's dimensional, airy and smooth without any tube affectations. There are 10 6SN7s in the LS and 8 12AT7s in the phono stage but surprisingly it runs fairly cool. Finding good low-noise 12AT7s is not easy. For now I'm using medium-quiet Chinese 12AT7s sourced from Atma-Sphere. I wouldn't use a cartridge less than .5mV without the optional Jensen step-up transformer. For 6SN7s I'm using EH and NOS Raytheon (sound great) & will probably try Ken-Rad, which some owners prefer.
Also, Atma-Sphere customer service is fantasic. They are very supportive of customers who buy new or used.