In 1981 Audible Illusions began production of the first Modulus preamplifier. Almost instantly, it became known as a breakthrough component setting new standards for sonic performance and reliability. Four years later, Audible Illusions introduced the Modulus 2 which carried the promise even further, quickly becoming one of the best-selling tube preamplifiers ever made. With the introduction of the Modulus 3 in 1992 the M3A in 1995 and the Modulus 3B in 2008 our Modulus preamplifiers have continued to earn a reputation for sonic excellence, construction quality and reliability.
To date over 20,000 Modulus preamps have been manufactured with over 150 excellent product reviews from audio critics around the world.
Adhering to our circuit design philosophy that “Simple is Better” and based on the proven superiority of single-ended, triode-tube designs our engineers continue to refine the preamplifier. Some of our innovations include the elimination of cathode followers, buffers, and negative feedback. The Modulus was also the first preamplifier to parallel tube output stages, and to design high performance Teflon capacitors. These are but a few innovations that have made our company a pioneer in modern-day tube technology.
The M3B is the natural evolution of the M3A. It remains one of the few full-function preamplifiers made and is built for vinyl and digital enthusiasts alike. Our goal was to retain the sonic signature of our previous design while improving on fundamentals that simply, let the music flow. The result is a preamplifier with a further simplified the signal path, improved switching, and reduced vibration. These improvements are elegant and results great sonic benefits.
The M3B is the finest full-function preamplifier we have ever made and continues to be the benchmark by which many others are compared.