I had my M3a updated in Sept, it took a little longer than quoted, approx 2 months longer to be exact. The improvements were worth the wait in my opinion. The noise floor is lower,the power supply is completely noise free. I used the Aux input for CD prior to the upgrade, which was limited in gain settings, usually at the nine o'clock position. Now I use the CD input, which has a different configuration and it sounds as transparent as the Aux input. To my ears the sound seems lighter and more transparent, including the MM Phono stage. The stock Sovtek tubes sound pretty good, allthough I haven't tried my Tungsgram or other NOS tubes yet, plenty of time for that. Since upgrading from a 95 model with non stepped attenuators I have been listening to music more and tweaking less. My system consists of Watt/Puppy 5, Monarchy SE100 Deluxe Amps, Well Tempered Classic/Grado Sonata, Kinergetics Stereo Subs, Cal Audio Icon MK 2. I looked for other preamps with the same features and cost and could not find anything comparable. I like the dual main outputs, subsonic filter, and Phono stage and I really don't mind the dual gain knobs and lack of remote. Talk to Art Ferris if you need specific data as to the technical improvements, he was very helpful to me. Good luck.
Audible Illusions M3A update
I am considering sending my M3A back to Audible Illusions for the newest version. The cost is $1250. My question is this. Has anyone out there had the opportunity to compare the sound of an older version of the M3A with the newest version? I am told that many improvements have been made, such as bigger power supply (which in now better shielded). New volume pots, improved line stage, etc. Can anyone please give me an idea as to wheather the improvement in sound is worth investing in the newest version of this preamp.