2. amps-preamps
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Mapletree Ultra 4A SE - mods

Any thoughts on replacing the stock PS to preamp umbilical cable with a better one? Revelation Audio's product (silver wire) is well known to improve the Mapletree's sound, but my DIY instincts are strong. Has anyone tried to used different wires and what was the end result? BTW, what is a good source for teflon shielded cryo silver wire?

2nd mod, how about bypassing the channel level controls? Don't need them nor use them. Easy mod to implement and reverse. Wondering if the sound would improve by removing this pot from the signal path.

Regards,
alex333
icorem
149 posts
 
why dont you consult the good doctor?
I'm sure he will be glad to assist with improvements.
alex333 OP
38 posts
 
Update, took the channel level controls (pots) out of the audio path. Result: noticeable improvement in overall sound.
rockadanny
1,221 posts
 
Dag! I wish you hadn't said that. Now my upgrade wheels are churning ... and just when I thought I was finally done!

Can you describe the improvements a little more please?
tsciame
88 posts
 

Yes the Revelation umbilical cable makes a hugh difference... so a DIY progect could work nicely. However the power cord does make that large of a change. Also NOS tubes can make a big improvement as well.

Love my 4A SE.
Tony
alex333 OP
38 posts
 
RE the sound change, I would say I'm getting more air, more detail, cymbals sound crisper.

The "mod" took about an hour but only because I was extra careful.

Umbilical power cable upgrade to silver is next on the list. Still hunting for a better source for the 18ga silver wire.

Has anyone tried to dampen the bottom metal plate? I have Dynamat extreme laying around, but I'd hate to kill the dynamics or dull the sound.
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