[coke]

Has anyone had a chance to compare to the two?  Preamps or amps?   I'm wondering what differences there would be if I upgraded my Ultra SL preamp and/or Ultra 550 amp.

[martyo]

Has anyone had a chance to compare to the two?  Preamps or amps?   I'm wondering what differences there would be if I upgraded my Ultra SL preamp and/or Ultra 550 amp.

Hi. I have a Double Ultra 550+ and the HT3's. I think you get a lot for $200. Here is the thread where Frank announced it with a few of my comments; http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=80410.0

My brothers 550+ sounds real nice on his HT2-TL(RAAL)

[Tone Depth]

The + upgrade to the Ultra preamp involves replacing the op-amp chips with newer ones in existing sockets, and can be done by yourself if you're careful.  It is low cost, and results in noticeable improvements to your preamp's performance.  There are a number of threads discussing the results, and also comments in the stickied announcement of the upgrade.

The + upgrade to the Ultra 550 amp replaces components on the circuit board, readjusts the circuits, and is done by AVA.  The cost is $200 plus shipping, and is a refinement in the highs and lows.  In an A/B comparison between the Insight and Insight+ amps, the results we heard were even smoother highs and tighter lows.  i'm certain the Ultra+ exhibits the same improvements over the Ultra.

Has anyone had a chance to compare to the two?  Preamps or amps?   I'm wondering what differences there would be if I upgraded my Ultra SL preamp and/or Ultra 550 amp.

Edit:  See Lefty's reply #3, my comment didn't include the latest upgrade developed.

[Lefty052347]

The latest Ultra pre-amp uprgrade replaces the power mosfet in the transimpedance circuit with a much higher capacity one and needs to be done in our shop.

Regards,
Dean

[clipped]

I upgraded from a 550 to 550 double, big difference in the mids with a mild improvement in the bass.
I have the Ultra preamp and HT3's.

[coke]

Thanks for the replies.  Frank is shipping my Ultra+ 550 and Ultra+ preamp back to me today  I'll try to post  a review when I get them.

 Can't say enough about Frank's customer service 

[turkey]

Can't say enough about Frank's customer service 

My only problem with AVA's customer service was that whenever Frank would announce something new all you other people would want it too, so I would sometimes have to wait in line.

[coke]

Yeah, I was expecting to have to wait a while since he announced the 15% off sale, but thankfully I didn't have to. 

[Opus Flatus]

I recently had my ULTRA PRE (12AT7) upgraded to the + config. I am really liking the changes. To my ears it is more tube-like in character, very liquid and full. Before mod it was a little more clinical and dry. It is mated to the Insight 240. I can't wait to hear it with my U70 - that should be a real treat.

[Lefty052347]

Opus Flatus:

I use an updated Ultra pre-amp (12AT7) to drive my Ultravalve. 

You will love the your Ultra pre and U70 combination.

Regards,
Dean