Love this review, and glad to see some press on the Modwright SWL 9.0 Anniversary Edition. I own this, plus the PH 9.0 Phono Preamp. I have them matched to the larger of MW's solid state power amps, the KWA 150 SE (which is a monster in its own right). The SWL Pre and the PH 9.0 are especially extraordinary, and I think you "nailed it" in your review, saying how they walk a line between traditional tube and traditional solid state in tone, warmth, and detail retrieval. Also agree that Dan is a great guy. 9 times out of 10 if you have a question and he's around, he picks up the phone himself to talk. Customer service at its finest. Huge value here. Welcome back!
Pretty honest reaction to his old digital amp being outclassed in his setup by the Modwright gear, no reason to get pissed, it's just his opinion, and most likely in his room and with his setup he is on the money. More evidence that this hobby is a never ending mystery, which is a big part of its fascination.
Nice review and your comments about Dan are spot on. I have been a customer of Modwright since Dan started modding the Perpetual Technology DACs. In 2011, I purchased an LS 100 and in 2013 I purchased the KWA 100SE and both are still in my system today. Dan and his staff are a pleasure to work with- I have had numerous phone conversations and email dialogs about gear with Dan and Modwright. I met Dan at a Show last year and it was seeing an old friend, he is one of the "good guys" in this industry.
Love that your back Ron. I love Vinyl. But honestly my digital rig is better than even the best turntable setups I’ve put together. I went on s crazy quest to put together a digital system that has all the benefits of vinyl without the drawbacks.
Ron, this is a fantastic review, honest and raw, even noticing your voice beginning to get raspy about halfway through the review. :-) Sorry to hear you all got the flu. No fun. Because of how you are now doing the reviews, I say great because it's more about your honest feelings and not as much on the hyperbole as was the case before. So in that case, I finally decide to subscribe. Keep at it.
Yeah, "Give me some of that " and "It's Freakin' legit" LOL! Love it! I own a ModWright LS 100 Preamp and just ordered a PH 9.0 this morning. Cant wait to hear what it brings to the Table (pun intended)
I recently demo’d the KWH225I, SWL 9.0 Anniversary Edition (into my JC5) and the PH9.0. I liked the sound of all 3. I opted to buy an Audio Research LS28SE which was much quieter, transparent and better balanced tonally than the Modwright (at 2.5x the price). The KHW225i was impressive but ultimately, my JC5 had more authority in the low bass when powering my Focal Scala Utopia Evo’s. I bought the PH 9.0. It was far better to my ears than my Parasound JC3 Jr. more resolving, very quiet for a tube phono and tonally more pleasing.
Great review Ron! Just had two questions. What equipment rack are you using? The wood looks great. Second question is that a VPI Avenger turntable? If so what cartridge is being used with it? I am very interested to hear some examples of reference record LPs recorded in analog that can test my system with tubes. Thanks as always!
Thanks for watching! The rack you see is my second DIY build which replaced my original pipes and wood modular rack. The wood is baltic birch plywood finished with knotty hickory veneer. Yup, reference Avenger with a Dyna 20x2l.
@@Newrecordday2013 Damn, I was going through comments trying to figure out where the stand was from lol. I've found something similar from Butcher Block Acoustics, but I like the spikes under each shelf like you have here. Unfortunately I don't have a shop or equipment to make my own.
I do like and use balance control on my LIO but its not dealbreaker for me. A lot of times you can combat balance with small movements with the speaker positioning.
@@ronnieabercrombie2261 For sure man! Quick tip, if you have your balance right in the middle and the center image is still off, double check to make sure the speakers are the exact same distance from the back wall! Even 1/4'' can throw off the balance!
I have anthem integrated 225 plenty of gas for the highway intact it’s overkill lol but the find of headroom is awesome and the control of the drivers.
Insightful review. I currently have a LIO with the AVC/Tubes pushing KEF LS50’s. I love my VR gear but Modwright has always looked interesting too. Is the sound signature of the Modwright gear similar to the LIO just with bigger wattage for more demanding speakers? Is there a benefit to sound of Modwright separates/extra interconnects vs the LIO’s ultracap/shorter signal path model? Thanks
Good question. Both are amazing for sure. The LIO is a one stop shop for everything especially with the modules. Depending on what all you need or want or how simple you want your rig to be, the switch to Modwright might not make sense. However, if you are still searching for the right speaker and want to have the power needed to drive anything out there, then we are going to have a different conversation. As great as the LIO is, wattage is wattage and there is a point where physics shows up to crash the party. So, if you need power, the switch could be worth it imo. Overall tone on both units? Its a side step - one is not CLEARLY better than the other - and both share similar strengths especially with the AVC. The phono on the LIO is cleaner and more detailed on top but doesnt have the same width, depth and holographic staging as the PH9.0. LIO stage might have a little better bass control as well, but its close! Is the LIO quieter than the Modwright gear with the Ultracaps? Damn, could come down to where you live and what kind of power you are dealing with. Here in AZ where I live, the power has been pretty good so its super close. If I lived in New York, I might be singing a different tune all together.
Pretty sure the idea is to blend the signals into mono for recordings which are early stereo and don’t sound as good as their mono versions. I’ve never felt the need to use it.
Different animals! The schiit is more flexible with its 3 modes. Between the Modwright and freya + with tubes engaged, the Modwright is a little warmer and relaxed!
@@Newrecordday2013 Man thanks for the reply you are awesome!I think Modwright will be better choice,but is hard to be found in UK and it is quite more expensive than Schiit.I will try to save some money and hopefully will find the Modwright in the future.
Well....if I ever have a spare $11-$13k sitting around burning a hole in my pocket, then I will know exactly what to get 🙄 It's it just me or does 90% of the equipment on channels like New Record Day or Zero Fidelity, you have to either working in silicon valley, on wall Street, the petrol chemical industry, or be a trust fund baby to even be about to toy with the idea of purchasing it?
Love this review, and glad to see some press on the Modwright SWL 9.0 Anniversary Edition. I own this, plus the PH 9.0 Phono Preamp. I have them matched to the larger of MW's solid state power amps, the KWA 150 SE (which is a monster in its own right). The SWL Pre and the PH 9.0 are especially extraordinary, and I think you "nailed it" in your review, saying how they walk a line between traditional tube and traditional solid state in tone, warmth, and detail retrieval. Also agree that Dan is a great guy. 9 times out of 10 if you have a question and he's around, he picks up the phone himself to talk. Customer service at its finest. Huge value here. Welcome back!
Pretty honest reaction to his old digital amp being outclassed in his setup by the Modwright gear, no reason to get pissed, it's just his opinion, and most likely in his room and with his setup he is on the money. More evidence that this hobby is a never ending mystery, which is a big part of its fascination.
Nice review and your comments about Dan are spot on. I have been a customer of Modwright since Dan started modding the Perpetual Technology DACs. In 2011, I purchased an LS 100 and in 2013 I purchased the KWA 100SE and both are still in my system today. Dan and his staff are a pleasure to work with- I have had numerous phone conversations and email dialogs about gear with Dan and Modwright. I met Dan at a Show last year and it was seeing an old friend, he is one of the "good guys" in this industry.
It is beautifully crazy how really great and energetic the video production style has evolved. Great video, great review. Cheers.
Started salivating at the end of this review. Guess I need to audition some Modwright stuff. Excellent review!
That is some seriously awesome looking gear! Love the look of the build quality. As always great work on the review commentary. Great work man!
Hi-Fi Haven thanks so much!
Love that your back Ron. I love Vinyl. But honestly my digital rig is better than even the best turntable setups I’ve put together. I went on s crazy quest to put together a digital system that has all the benefits of vinyl without the drawbacks.
I'd bet dollars to doughnuts you didn't use a good enough preamp.
Your reviews are great man, well done!
I like your new style - feels much more genuine.
Great review. As usual, Very well made! Thanks.
Ron, this is a fantastic review, honest and raw, even noticing your voice beginning to get raspy about halfway through the review. :-) Sorry to hear you all got the flu. No fun.
Because of how you are now doing the reviews, I say great because it's more about your honest feelings and not as much on the hyperbole as was the case before. So in that case, I finally decide to subscribe. Keep at it.
John Palmer thanks man! Welcome aboard!
Happy New Year and a great audio year 2019!!!
Best opening shots ever Bro. Like just box them up and ship east.
Really nice looking kit, even the logo is well thought out.
Yeah, "Give me some of that " and "It's Freakin' legit" LOL! Love it! I own a ModWright LS 100 Preamp and just ordered a PH 9.0 this morning. Cant wait to hear what it brings to the Table (pun intended)
Mike - Renee' Reeter dude! Grats on the purchase! Keep us posted!
@@Newrecordday2013 Have the PH 9.0 in the mix, she's Saaaweeet!
I recently demo’d the KWH225I, SWL 9.0 Anniversary Edition (into my JC5) and the PH9.0.
I liked the sound of all 3. I opted to buy an Audio Research LS28SE which was much quieter, transparent and better balanced tonally than the Modwright (at 2.5x the price).
The KHW225i was impressive but ultimately, my JC5 had more authority in the low bass when powering my Focal Scala Utopia Evo’s.
I bought the PH 9.0. It was far better to my ears than my Parasound JC3 Jr. more resolving, very quiet for a tube phono and tonally more pleasing.
Great review Ron! Just had two questions. What equipment rack are you using? The wood looks great. Second question is that a VPI Avenger turntable? If so what cartridge is being used with it? I am very interested to hear some examples of reference record LPs recorded in analog that can test my system with tubes.
Thanks as always!
Thanks for watching! The rack you see is my second DIY build which replaced my original pipes and wood modular rack. The wood is baltic birch plywood finished with knotty hickory veneer. Yup, reference Avenger with a Dyna 20x2l.
Thanks Ron, appreciate the feedback. I am looking forward to more reviews.
@@Newrecordday2013 Damn, I was going through comments trying to figure out where the stand was from lol. I've found something similar from Butcher Block Acoustics, but I like the spikes under each shelf like you have here. Unfortunately I don't have a shop or equipment to make my own.
Damn you Sean 😂😂😂 😂 I can't get away from that zero Fidelity guy 😂🤣😂🤣
Thank you so much for your review! Take care 🙏🙏🙏
You nailed the description of good MOSFET sound. Can't get that with any NCore amp.
Hi Ron another great review. One question. What are your feelings about preamps without balance control. I think every pre without one is flawed.
I do like and use balance control on my LIO but its not dealbreaker for me. A lot of times you can combat balance with small movements with the speaker positioning.
Thanks for your answer Ron. I never thought about speaker position. I'm more of a set & forget varying only with toe in.
@@ronnieabercrombie2261 For sure man! Quick tip, if you have your balance right in the middle and the center image is still off, double check to make sure the speakers are the exact same distance from the back wall! Even 1/4'' can throw off the balance!
Like you I break out the tape measure. Everything is as it should be.
I have anthem integrated 225 plenty of gas for the highway intact it’s overkill lol but the find of headroom is awesome and the control of the drivers.
For the flu = Vicks Vapor rub > its got turpentine oil in it. So, what is a good phono-cartridge for the $$? - Thanks and welcome back
Great review!
Insightful review. I currently have a LIO with the AVC/Tubes pushing KEF LS50’s. I love my VR gear but Modwright has always looked interesting too.
Is the sound signature of the Modwright gear similar to the LIO just with bigger wattage for more demanding speakers? Is there a benefit to sound of Modwright separates/extra interconnects vs the LIO’s ultracap/shorter signal path model?
Thanks
Good question. Both are amazing for sure. The LIO is a one stop shop for everything especially with the modules. Depending on what all you need or want or how simple you want your rig to be, the switch to Modwright might not make sense. However, if you are still searching for the right speaker and want to have the power needed to drive anything out there, then we are going to have a different conversation. As great as the LIO is, wattage is wattage and there is a point where physics shows up to crash the party. So, if you need power, the switch could be worth it imo. Overall tone on both units? Its a side step - one is not CLEARLY better than the other - and both share similar strengths especially with the AVC. The phono on the LIO is cleaner and more detailed on top but doesnt have the same width, depth and holographic staging as the PH9.0. LIO stage might have a little better bass control as well, but its close! Is the LIO quieter than the Modwright gear with the Ultracaps? Damn, could come down to where you live and what kind of power you are dealing with. Here in AZ where I live, the power has been pretty good so its super close. If I lived in New York, I might be singing a different tune all together.
New Record Day Thanks for the breakdown! If I need more power eventually I will keep the 100se in mind.
i enjoy all your videos even for products i have zero interest in
Thks for review Ron. Have you compared the preamp against Rogue, microZOTL and Primaluna? Wd love to hear your thoughts
How does the ModWright PH9.0 stack up against the Herron VTPH-2A?
Never heard the Herron, I apologize!
Regarding the PH 9.0, If you have a dedicated mono turntable/cartridge, is the mono switch unnecessary? Or how would it using it befit the sonics?
Pretty sure the idea is to blend the signals into mono for recordings which are early stereo and don’t sound as good as their mono versions. I’ve never felt the need to use it.
I just had an idea would your brother let you review his system?
Darion Fox sure he would
Did you try this rig with your NX-Oticas? Was it a good match?
Is that anniversary Edition better than the usual series?Thanks bro!
How was the Wilson Audio Sabrina?
Rune Fossdal insanely fun!
NAD M22 (Ncore Hypex) would be a good choice to review?
Thanks for the suggestion!
Seconded
Can you compare this one to Schiit Freya Plus mate?Thank you!I am windering if Freya can compete against Modwright.
Different animals! The schiit is more flexible with its 3 modes. Between the Modwright and freya + with tubes engaged, the Modwright is a little warmer and relaxed!
@@Newrecordday2013 Man thanks for the reply you are awesome!I think Modwright will be better choice,but is hard to be found in UK and it is quite more expensive than Schiit.I will try to save some money and hopefully will find the Modwright in the future.
Love the SWL 9.0! It’s incredible!
Your thoughts on the PH 9 vs the Pass XP15?
Did I miss the Wilson Audio review?
TFA1964 Nope! Up next!
Hi Ron..cronus magnum vs modwright..which one is better for sabrina?
Modwright.
The music at the beginning. What is it?
Turn Around by Tigerblood Jewel
No Surprise here
Jaw is hitting the floor
Darion Fox haha! That intro was for you bro!
Gotta hit the gas with it
You’re super high speed
First!
LOL 🤣😂
Hahaha
Gas my catch phrase yeeeee hawwww
What is a price tag on these 3 pieces?
Ask Google if you dare 💸💸😄
@@chrisvinicombe9947 LOL....brilliant! Who would guess?!
Give em gas
Well....if I ever have a spare $11-$13k sitting around burning a hole in my pocket, then I will know exactly what to get 🙄
It's it just me or does 90% of the equipment on channels like New Record Day or Zero Fidelity, you have to either working in silicon valley, on wall Street, the petrol chemical industry, or be a trust fund baby to even be about to toy with the idea of purchasing it?
I’ve reviewed a good handful of affordable gear as well. I try to mix things up the best I can.
Great review!