I will explain how we approach the modifications end of our business, without disparaging the other companies that you mentioned.
First of all, our modifications include actual re-engineering of existing circuitry and true MODIFICATION of the gear. We also upgrade key components where we find this to be beneficial. There is benefit to straight component upgrades, but we found that there is far more significant value in re-engineering circuits, addressing their weaknesses.
Many manufacturers fall back on common and cost-effective design decisions, such as the use of op-amps for analog stage designs. The DACs used are often state of the art, as are jitter reduction topologies, etc. We DO often replace the master clock as there is great benefit in doing this. Power supply designs in stock products range from mediocre to quite good. Sony and Slim Devices use very GOOD power supply designs. Sony uses R-Core power transformers, sophisticated voltage regulation circuits and quality Nichicon Muse power supply capacitors. These all make a difference and are very worthwhile.
In most cases, I find that the analog stages, using op-amps with inherent feedback and electrolytic capacitor coupled outputs, lead to serious sonic limitations.
We are famous for using tubes in lieu of op-amps for the analog stage designs, but we do not limit ourselves to this approach. The Oppo mod will use discrete SS analog stage circuits with zero global feedback. This will reduce costs and will be a signfiicant improvement over standard op-amp based designs. We also provide our own dedicated power supplies for our new analog stage designs, be they SS or tube.
There are some unethical modifiers who are also doing VERY LITTLE, charging exorbinant prices, relative to the work they do and benefit that results, while being very close-lipped about WHAT they have done. I would caution against working with a modifier who will not at least GENERALLY tell you what they have done. We don't share our schematics or design secrets either, but we do tell you what you are getting for your investment and you have my word that the performance of the unit will meet or exceed expectations for the given investment, no matter what that price is.
Lastly, look at the customer service and support record of the modifier that you are going to work with. The internet is a great source of information. Your behaviors as a businessperson on-line WILL be found out, for better or worse. We take great pride in offering excellent service long-term for our customers. I can't say that there are never problems, shipping damage, component failure, etc., but the key is HOW the modifier supports you AFTER the sale!
I respect many of the other modifiers in the market, while others I do not. I will not name names, but consider what I have said above when shopping for a modifier for your next upgrade.
You may not choose to work with ModWright and I respect that. I just want to be sure that you are satisfied with your decision of who to work with.
I hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Dan W.
