Letters • March 2026

Where to find a Modulus 2D?

March 19, 2026

Marc,

I have just finished reading your 2024 article on updating film capacitors on a couple of Audio Illusions Modulus 2D preamps. I found it a really interesting read and very informative about the impacts capacitors can have versus the more traditional route of updating components such as tubes.

I'm upgrading my 1992 Pioneer integrated amplifier to a new Sugden A21 SE, and have received many glowing recommendations of the Modulus 2 preamplifiers as a great match with Sugden Amps as a phono stage. I'll either seek out a good used Modulus 2D and follow your article upgrade template or simply get the best specific phono stage at the $1000 price point (what are your favorites?).

I'm wondering what you consider a fair price for a 2D in excellent working condition. I'm based in Australia where the vintage-hi-fi market is fairly small, so any tips on best sites/forums to locate a Modulus 2D would be really appreciated, to avoid being just another guy hoping to trust eBay.

Adrian Edwards

A useful site for finding used hi-fi gear for sale is Hi Fi Shark. Just type what you're looking for into the search box and you'll find out if it's for sale across many sites, including eBay. I found my first Modulus 2D on Craigslist. The selection is hit and miss, but you might get lucky and find a great piece of equipment for cheap, as I have a few times, if you look often.

In the $1000 range, I would keep my eyes open for a used phono stage from Allnic or Conrad-Johnson. You might also find an older Audio Research phono stage in your price range, if the seller is motivated to sell.

A Modulus 2D in good cosmetic and working shape for under $750 is a good deal. However, keep in mind that it will be 30+ years old and may have issues, as both of my units had. -Marc Mickelson

Reader list

March 1, 2026

Marc,

I would like to join your reader list.

Dennis Stappen

You're on the list. To join TAB's reader e-mail list and find out about new articles first, send e-mail to rl@theaudiobeat.com. -Marc Mickelson

 

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