2. amps-preamps
  3. 1019180019

SF Owners - worthwhile to upgrade a Line 1 to SE?

Hi all. I have a Sonic Frontiers Line 1 mated with a Power 2 amp. I've been considering sending it to SF to have it upgraded to the Line 1SE status but the cost seems a bit high considering the resale value of the preamps (which is incredibly low considering how good the pre really is!). Any owners out there who have done the upgrade and if so, is it worth the money. Thanks for all replies.

Mike.
michaela
bigwavedave
44 posts
 
I haven't personally tried the upgrade but my local sonic frontiers dealer says for the price you get a nice new special edition face plate. He recommended changing the stock tubes to the siemens E88cc's that they use in some of the special editions for a better value. Just a thought, made a big difference with mine.
7p62mm
97 posts
 
I agree with Garfish that different tubes will make the most difference. I own a stock Line 3 and it works great. I have no current plans to upgrade it. If something fails requiring the unit to be sent in for repair then I will consider getting it upgraded at that time. Any improvements should be in the reliability area. If it ain't broke don't fix it.
marchman
45 posts
 
I don't suspect that the changes in the internal wiring (which are VERY short paths) makes much of a difference re: 1 vs. 1 SE. But the tubes will make an extrodinary difference. Look for some Seimens 7308's or Brimars as suggested above. Put them in two most rear positions, burn them in continuously for 100 hrs. and pop in from time to time for a listen. You'll be amazed.

Lots of good tubes on this site. Try this for starters: http://cgi.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cl.pl?preatube&1023319046

I plan on buying a pair from Fletchj in the next couple of days. I understand from others that have bought tubes from him here, that he's an awesome dude to deal with.

Best of luck!
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