Resolution Audio Opus 21 TRL Audio mod

Tvad makes a good point about resale value of modded units. Like Grannyring I can attest to the TRL Sony 900 player as one of the better CDPs I have heard. For the price it's a no brainer. Never heard GNSC mods to the Opus, but Robert at Ridge Street Audio has a GNSC modded Opus and I trust his ears.

Why don't you call Resolution Audio and ask them what the think of GNSC mods? Personally, while I trust Paul and respect his work (I own a few of his pieces), I wouldn't send the Opus to him, just get the modded Sony instead.

Because of their excellent reputation and experience with the Opus 21, I wouldn't have anyone other than GNSC mod the Opus if it was my money.

TRL offers a money back guarantee as well.

I have a Resolution Audio Opus 21 that I bought from GNSC and used for about a year before asking Steve to perform the Reference level modification. I felt that the Opus 21 "fights above its weight" in that it sounds lots better than other comparably priced players. I wasn't dissatisfied with the stock unit but after talking through the reference mods with Steve, I trusted him to proceed. I also knew that Resolution Audio supports Steve's efforts. GNSC and Jeff Kalt have a good relationship and I was persuaded to have GNSC modify the unit understanding that if something went wrong, I was unlikely to face Resolution Audio blaming GNSC and vice versa; those guys would cooperate and get any problem solved. Add to that GNSC's reputation for customer service; I plunged in.

The modified unit sounds great. I noted particular improvements in deep bass performance and dynamics. There were other improvements across the spectrum, including improved midrange. In short, it sounds more like real music.

Having no experience with TRL, I do not want to discourage anyone from dealing with an outfit that might be great. GNSC is, however, a well known quantity. I have absolute confidence in Steve and have had great experiences with him. You won't go wrong with a GNSC Opus 21 purchase and mod.

I've had mods done by TRL on a DAC and Steve at GNSC on the Opus 21....no knock on Paul or TRL at all, but Steve is the man when it comes to the Opus, don't think twice about having him mod your unit...