Hi Dave,
I received an e-mail from Ken, who told you about the ModWright 9.0SE. Let me say right from the start that I have had over 14 preamps, about 10 of those in the last few years, and I never found just the right one, somewhat like Goldilocks, until I got the ModWright. I had the great pleasure of driving down to Dan Wright's home and getting one from the man himself. He is an absolute prince, and a genius to boot! This preamp is a keeper, and will satisfy even the most hard to please audiophile. Check the reviews at 6moons and also EnjoyTheMusic in their Superior Audio section. When they say the ModWright can compete with the VTL 7.5 Reference, believe them. This preamp is a dream, and should cost much,much more.
Tubes are a pair of 5687 that cost little compared to the ubiquitous 6SN7, and one does not need a costly pair to get the absolute best from the preamp. Dan voiced it well with the stock tubes, and there is no need to tube roll. Try that with other tubed preamps. My Cary SLP98's sonic signature changed with any and every 6SN7 I fed it, and I could never get it to my liking. Not so with the ModWright..It has excellent build and parts but be sure to give its due as far as break-in time.
Take it from a man who drove his wife, family and himself to the edge (well, tongue in cheek) on the quest for the elusive preamp. I have stopped looking and have no regrets at all. I have heard nothing at it's price point, or at 4-5 times that, that will give you the satisfaction the ModWright does.
My thanks for your patience, and letting me babble to you.
Bob
