shindo vs. atma-sphere

For the differences between the MP-3 and MP-1 preamps, the best place to start is the Atma-Sphere website, as well as discussions and reviews.

I can tell you though that the MP-3 is not a 'baby' MP-1. They both use balanced differential circuits but different tubes. And the MP-1 is a two chassis unit (with a separate power supply.) It's also about 3x or 4x the price of the MP-3 ;~)

Capacitor upgrades are generally a good idea. Whether V-Caps are the preferred upgrade, I don't know. Capacitors are like tubes - they are to taste ;~) Ralph thinks Chris Van Hul's V-caps are special; a lot of other people like other caps better . . .

Caddock resistors can provide a warmer, smoother sound, but to hear any difference, you have to change ALL OF THEM!
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Thanks everyone for your responses. They have all been a big help.

Odds are I would get the MP3, not just for cost but also for space considerations. But the Shindo sounds awfully good too.

If you want to hear the difference brought by resistors, get a variety of pairs and try them in the phono load position on the backside of the preamp (at least on the MP-1, I assume a similar spot for the MP-3). They are simple to swap and the gear is so revealing that yes a single resistor's difference in each channel is audible. Audio Note Tantalums, nude Vishays, Caddocks, for example.

That's a nice lot of tubes to play with. For me, finding quiet 12AT7s was challenging. Some of my favorites are the Sylvania GB-6201 and the Siemens 12AT7. Ken-Rad and Sylvania for the 6SN7s, RCAs too. Among caps I had the CuTF version of the v-Caps installed and definitely found the upgrade worthwhile vs. stock. Andy at VTS is a great source for 6SN7s.