OK guys, it is time to resume this thread and bring this product to the finish line!
First of all, it has been a strange year plus, for all of us! For me personally, I got off track, and I feel now like I am back! Like many of you, a lot of introspection, time alone and such a change in lifestyle. I don't really feel like the same person that I was before 2020. Not all for the bad, many ways for the better. But, all the same, I kind of got knocked off course.
I have been focusing on the KWH 225i Hybrid integrated amp and the PH 9.0 tube phono and PH 9.0X upgraded version. These products are doing well and I am now feeling inspired to take (code name: 'The Buffer') to market. Product name is much cooler, but that will come later!
While I have asked what everyone wants, and weighed it all, I have decided to do the following:
The initial product will be as follows:
RCA in and RCA out.
< $995.
No volume control, no remote.
Compact enclosure with exposed tubes.
Likely tube rectified.
High bandwidth, low distortion, low noise and very low output impedance to match with ANY amp, tube or SS!
Lastly, I have an idea for tube rolling and flexibility of tone and preference, that I believe will be well received!
The whole intent of this design was to take the 'mod' out of the the digital source and make this a product that can be used in any system with any analog signal device. I.e. between DAC and amp, DAC and preamp, any other source analog signal path in, out to amp/preamp. Many of you have SS systems and want to add tubes, but don't want the hassle of biasing a tube amp or are uncertain about going to a tube preamp. Many of you also have digital sources with built in volume control that drive amps directly. This product can add 'the tube sound' to your system, without adding noise, and will also offer your amp the VERY low output impedance that it wants, to perform its best! No passive volume control and offer the impedance matching of an active circuit such as an active preamp or buffer.
Next step is to get the rubber on the road and design the enclosure and finalize the circuit.
I will share progress and images of the project here and I hope that you will share your frank feedback.
This project began some time ago and I know many of you thought it had died on the vine, but rather, it has simply matured...
I am ready for an exciting new product that is affordable, flexible and will fit ANY system!
Thank you all for your support, feedback and patience!
Dan Wright
CEO, ModWright instruments Inc.