AudioCircle
Industry Circles => ModWright Instruments (MWI) => Topic started by: modwright on 19 Jul 2019, 11:31 pm
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Near full production, here are some photos. I have a few picky things to work out on the tube guard and with the chassis and cover fit and finish.
Circuit-wise, it incorporates a 225W version of our KWA 150SE amp, controls and functionality of our KWI 200 SS integrated and of course adds a 6922 based tube preamp.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=196757)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=196758)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=196759)
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If it sounds half as good as it looks then it’s a home run.
Time to think about upgrading from KWI 200?
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Looking good, but I have a question : Why did you opt for the abbreviated MWI on the faceplate versus Modwright Instruments? The MWI is already represented by the logomark itself. Unless you plan to change the company name to MWI, it's best to keep your products consistent and connected to your company name, as all great, lasting, brands do. :D
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The MWI on the front is a wise choice imho. Production models should have a different moniker from your mods. I've often wondered why Dan hasn't done this before.
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The MWI vs. ModWright Instruments is a re-branding of sorts, or at least a differentiation from our Modification business. By now, everyone knows that the logo and MWI means ModWrigh Instruments I would say....BMW doesn't say Bavarian Motor Works on it ;). Not that I am comparing ModWright to BMW, but the logo is known I believe.
Thanks,
Dan
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The MWI vs. ModWright Instruments is a re-branding of sorts, or at least a differentiation from our Modification business. By now, everyone knows that the logo and MWI means ModWrigh Instruments I would say....BMW doesn't say Bavarian Motor Works on it ;). Not that I am comparing ModWright to BMW, but the logo is known I believe.
Thanks,
Dan
Branding is a tricky thing. I can see why you're moving away from the full Modwright Instruments name on the face of your gear. Long-lasting companies and brands (and their products) evolve. Your BMW example is actually perfect. Note that the "BMW" letters on any BMW vehicle are never boldly displayed anywhere other than within the circle propeller logomark itself. Since you're moving away from the Modwright Instruments text, it makes sense to just use your circle MWI logomark. It is versatile (like BMW's logo) in that it serves as both your company symbol AND has the abbreviated company name in one. Great! That's all you need my friend. Job's done. Let your logo do the job it was designed to do. No need for further branding embellishments that don't serve a purpose except to add machining time. I hope you don't take my critiqueing the wrong way. Just offering friendly professional insight. :D
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Thanks for that, it is greatly appreciated!
Our new LS 300 omits the MWI altogether with the same thought in mind, as does our phono stage. I will do the same on the KWH 225i going forward.
Thank you for your support and feedback!
Dan
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The MWI vs. ModWright Instruments is a re-branding of sorts, or at least a differentiation from our Modification business. By now, everyone knows that the logo and MWI means ModWrigh Instruments I would say....BMW doesn't say Bavarian Motor Works on it ;) . Not that I am comparing ModWright to BMW, but the logo is known I believe.
Thanks,
Dan
Good decision, Dan. Kudos and best of luck!
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Thanks Scott.
Dan
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Dan
What did you end up with final case dimensions?
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Thanks for that, it is greatly appreciated!
Our new LS 300 omits the MWI altogether with the same thought in mind, as does our phono stage. I will do the same on the KWH 225i going forward.
Thank you for your support and feedback!
Dan
You bet! I wish you continued success. When you display a full rack of gear with the consistent face / logo treatment at shows, it'll look fantastic...and make people want the same in their home. :D
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Final dimensions are 17"W x 17"D x 6"H.
Just about ready to ship, but it has to be 100% right! This is a GREAT product and one that I am very proud to put the MWI name on!
Thanks,
Dan
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Will we see and hear it at RMAF?
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I regret that I decided not to attend RMAF this year. Numerous reasons that are hard to explain here. I had planned on debuting the KWH 225i at RMAF, but I am not sure if it will be 100% ready for production by then. I will for sure have it at CAF in NOV, along with our new 300B (325Ai Integrated).
This is a special design that I have spent a lot of time on. I won't release it until I am 100% happy with it!
Thank you for your patience,
Dan
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Dan,
Since you mentioned your new 300B integrated is there any information about it available at this time?
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I have a working prototype that is nearly 100% and a second build under way. Here is what I have on the unit:
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=193554)
The image is of our first scratch built prototype. The final chassis will be a bit different, but this gives you the design intent. End bells are painted Illusion Malbec deep wine color.
25W/CH - Push-Pull into 6 ohms.
Four inputs, preamp - out and two main outs. All RCA.
Tube complement: (2)6BM8, (2)5687, (4)300B, (2)6DE4 - [Final design may see a change to driver tubes; image shows first design with (4)5687 drivers, now (2)6BM8 and (2)5687]
Output transformers are all hand-wound from electraprint.
Interstage transformers are Lundahl.
Price is still TBD, but in the $10K range.
Final design will likely have R/C volume.
The design goal has been to provide enough tube power to drive most reasonable speakers, i.e. not requiring horns. I have driven 87dB two-way monitors with the amp easily! I love the sound of 300B, but wanted power AND beauty. I found that with P-P design, I could achieve this, but it took some doing! Great care has been taken to provide the best bass and impact possible from the 300B tube!
More to come....
Thanks,
Dan
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Looks like the Capital Audiofest will be full of great sounding MW kit!
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Dan, thanks for providing some insight on your 300B integrated, prototype looks great and 25wpc is attractive. Look forward to the final product
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Hi Dan,
Will the KWH 225i have preouts for powered subs? That would be a nice feature, especially if the subs are able to be used in HT bypass mode.
Also, what about fixed tape output?
Thanks,
Greg
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Yes, variable pre-outs. Not sure about Tape Outs.
Dan
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Dan
Any progress updates on the KWH 225i?
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It is in Beta testing right now! I am taking a unit to CAF!
It sounds fantastic, I am just making sure that EVERYTHING is 100% before I take it to production.
Thanks,
Dan
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I'm anticipating an involving session with the new KWH 225i next week in Rockville at CAF!
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Right on!
Dan
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Kemper
Let us know what you think as it's definitely on my radar as I contemplate pairing things down to a simpler system and the hybrid approach like my BHK separates appeals to me.
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Jack, We are on the same wavelength. Dan's Hybrid 225i, Aesthetix Mimas Hybrid, and Vinnie Rossi's L2i DHT Hybrid are 3 examples of sensational execution of Hybrid integrateds. I also just acquired a Rogue Medusa Hybrid amp, now in search of 12AU7s to roll.
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NOS or new production?
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Probably NOS, just looking for a more dimensional stage and midrange tube magic.
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I will be using NOS Siemens 6922's at the show. We will likely ship stock with JJ ECC88's.
Hybrid integrated amps offer the best of both worlds and simple integration! While ours will not include a DAC option (tech changing too fast), it will include a phono option.
Our amp will also provide a solid 225W into 8 ohms and close to 400W into 4 ohms, so it will have both POWER and BEAUTY!
Thanks,
Dan
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The KWH 225i sure appears to be a winner, can't wait to hear it next week!
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We are very pleased with it! Thanks!
Dan
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Hey Dan great idea. Love the integrated as it saves both space, money and cabling. Have a good show. Taking this year off for family obligations see ya next year.
charles
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Thanks Rollo! Enjoy the time with family!
Dan
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Update! Heading into production of the KWH 225i!
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=201714)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=201715)
We have the final PCB revision in and complete. It sounds and works great!
The final first chassis run is in process and will be here after the new year!
We are now taking pre-orders!
Attractive pricing will be offered to those willing to pre-order.
This amp combines the output power stage design of the KWA 150SE, but with greatly increased ventilation and larger power transformer for more power, higher current and lower distortion due to higher operating bias!
The 6922 tube based preamp stage adds the 3-D holographics and soundstage that only tubes can offer!
We are very excited about this new product and it will make a big splash in 2020!
If you are looking for a no-compromise tube, SS or hybrid integrated, call us now!
Retail is $8500.
Power: 225W into 8 ohms; 400W into 4 ohms.
Thanks and I look forward to hearing from you!
Dan Wright
President, ModWright Instruments Inc.
360.247.6688
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This looks terrific, Dan. Was very glad to see it at CAF, and would love to hear it with my Elisa SE’s. Time for an upgrade from my Prima Luna?!? :)
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If someone is looking for an integrated then Dan's should definitely be on the short list. When I eventually downsize this will be the integrated that I will get.
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Agreed. The list for me may include Luxman and Esoteric, but my experience with the KWI-200 puts the new 225 at the top.
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Hi Guys, the first units will roll off the production line in early Feb. I have standing orders for both domestic and international customers and dealers.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=202188)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=202190)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=202191)
Price: $8495US.
Power: 225W into 8 ohms, 400W into 4 ohms.
11 separate PCBs in a fully modular design with dual mono circuitry and high current 1.5KVA power transformer.
BJT output devices (24 total), based on the award winning KWA 150SE Reference power amp.
6922/6dj8/7308 based tube preamp stage.
While I am waiting on final enclosures from the machinist, we have a limited number of Beta amps that we are selling to select customers. In return for a great price on the Beta unit and future upgrade to full production after product release, we only ask for your feedback and impressions of the unit. We have done our own in-house testing for some time now, but this allows us to gain even more information.
The Beta units are built in the first gen enclosures which have a minor graphical error on the rear panel and a slight alignment error in the cover and base chassis. These can be upgraded after production to full production status.
We have a handful of Beta units in use now and feedback has been exceptional.
Thank you and I look forward to your replies. Please don't hesitate to call or email if you want more information or if you are interested in our Beta program.
Thank you,
Dan Wright
modwright@yahoo.com
360.247.6688
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KWH 225i Hybrid Integrated Amplifiers are now shipping. Six more ship this week and we have over 20 units on backorder.
Feedback has been exceptional!
If interested, please contact us now or contact your nearest MWI dealer!
Thanks,
Dan