Oh man i was all set to wire my new mark II up to a bunch of flashing led’s now I will have to put that plan on hold
Lee
The transformer mod (and from there other mods) really started with the realization that PS Audio was thrifty on the MKI transformer and an extra $100 in the purchase of a pair of Edcor transformer could really improve the sound quality. It would also be a drop-in replacement with no other modification necessary. Now with the MKII, PS Audio did went with Edcor, but also comes with a significant price increase, so there’s still a question of was the same pricing done with MKII where a minimal increase in price result in significant improvement, like in the MKI?
Understood that part cost multiplier that Paul referenced often when pricing PS Audio gear is in effect here, but I think strategic adjustment should be considered here, I don’t think an extra $100 would hurt the MKI sale even at the same MSRP, especially considering there are many significant discount offers pepper throughout the year (it probably even help with the increased sound quality). We know this has been done with the BHK600 where it’s price actually went down to meet strategic goals for loan payment, so the same can be done with MKI and MKII. At the price point of the MKII, making it clear to the customers that the best part selection was done with sonic as a priority and maybe even some compromise to pure profit would be very comforting, and deter desire for modifications, especially coming from the MKI Edcor insight.
I guess this is why manufacturers often claim custom design transformers specific to their needs… I think effort here to work with a reputable transformer house for a custom built one just for the TSS (too late for MKII) from PS Audio would go a long way here…
my 2cents.
Wise move IMO, If you are happy with it especially following the formal massive update leave well enough alone, or start looking for the next best DAC, a TSS, Tambaqui DAC, or…
In addition to the Edcor for the Mk I, someone who shall remain nameless, was offering nickel laminate transformers for the Mk I, and then for the Mk II. I’m not privy to the failure details, but the MK II transformer modification was called out by the PS Audio tech. He did the right thing to bring it up. Those that choose the mod are now aware of the potential risk(s).
The same issue exists with respect to nearly all components one can use in a product, the electric components, casework, etc.
There always something better at a greater cost. Which to include and which to leave behind is a difficult decision.
This is pretty obvious… I don’t think any modder would be surprised. PSA was pretty generous in helping already. Other manufacturers even changing tubes could but you at risk of not getting warranty service. I’ve experienced issues with my Magico that I’m sure PS Audio would cover for me if it was their speakers.
Damn you had problems with Magico’s? those things are pricey, I would expect awesome support for a product in that price range. I must say I dont even own a pass labs product yet but I emailed them a question and had a reply to my question in less than 10 mins. by comparison its taken me 3 weeks, 4 emails and 2 phone calls just for the privilege of ordering a $320.00 cardboard box from mark levinson Lee
I was one of early MK2 owners that had APS transformers installed, and I had JR installed for me since my electrical skill stopped at changing lightbulbs. I assume he installed them correctly since he was the one that came up with the design of the Mod, and sells the transformers.
I reported before that the unit was running hot for the first few months that had me worried, but after three months it is back to normal temperature (as I remembered). So far my MK2 is running flawlessly, and there is a sonic benefit to stock for sure.
It was discussed before that PSA is generous on these mod warranty, and it was one of the reasons I gave it a go on the mod installation. However, I understand if the unit is damaged as the result of these mods directly, it will not be covered.
Hopefully mine will last a while before I do the next trade-in I am looking forward to the Massive update as soon as I come back to this side of world.
While true and rather obvious, some component upgrades are more impactful. As reported here and elsewhere, many found the transformer upgrade to be a most worthy upgrade. To a degree Ted touted the Edcor upgrade for the Mk I. Unfortunately there appears to be some risk with some of the transformer upgrades in the Mk II. A good designer strikes a balance between build cost and ultimate performance. At times the number crunchers step in and performance takes a hit. It is up to the design team to stand their ground in my opinion. There is no fault here, just a matter of choices. I’ve come to the conclusion that PSA learned a lot with the Mk I product, and continues to learn with the Mk II. The latter being a fine tuning of the former.
Pass Labs is the Gold Standard IME.
True, and rather obvious.
As was the above.
Very controversial. It’s a gold standard of an average amplifier. Even their top models. They have their pros and cons.
I am very happy with mine, and agree to disagree with you yet again. My comment implied their service and customer support is the Gold Standard. Their components are mighty fine.
The transformer upgrade is the most impactful… meaning you didn’t get the power upgrade and Vocm mod right. Without the latter two mods no sense to install APS (or Edcor) transformers.
I meant. Power and Vocm are the most impactful. A good transformers will let you hear the other mods
I distinctly remember Ted specifying to the transformer manufacturer he preferred more loss to reduce noise.
I believe with MKI that may be true (might be half true I just don’t remember). But with MKII it’s not.
You “believe,” but I know: it’s true for both. The only difference: in mk1 you can (relatively) easily improve all power in the unit, but in mk2 it’s not easy.
For mk1 [considering Vocm mod is a must]:
if you installed APS or Lundahl transformers but didn’t improve power for both analog and digital then you hear more clearly, more detailed not only music/signal but also more clearly and detailed cr*p from the stock power supply.
My point is you’d be better with {power mods + Edcor + Vocm} (vs) {APS+Vocm but without power mods}.
APS transformers require pretty much ALL the known mods - and it’s a very expensive way. If you can’t commit to go all the way, then it will be a compromise. And in this case {Edcore 4400+Vocm+power mods} is a better compromise, and less expensive.
I didn’t even mention the quality of the Vocm mod. It’s a long story
Interesting. JK Richards told me that the power mod on the MK1 was the last thing to change as the improvement is least significant.
He is just a salesmen, he can’t make a quick profit on power upgrades… what else would he say…
All people who get to change a single regulator will tell you that it’s as significant as APS transformers swap. Imagine what a full power supply upgrade yields! Now, the DAC is a whole new animal!