Phoenix Audio DRS-Q4 MK2 Users?

I have one of these in like it a lot. I've had a couple issues with it in the three years or so that I've owned it. The first time it was an op amp that drives the meter on channel 2 that went bad. The second time it was the, I guess it's the output op amp, one of the Square white things inside. Both times that I had issues they were super responsive via email and sent me Parts out no questions asked. They also sent me a t-shirt with the first op amp. Both times I sent me very detailed instructions and video on how to do the repair. Super easy. That said, it was still under warranty at the time. I'm not sure how they would take care of me if it wasn't under warranty. Otherwise I love the unit.

Thanks for the insight... I am also considering the Miktek MPA-201. Looks kinda lame IMO, but supposedly it sounds great.

There's a DRS-2 and a DRS-1 at the place I share with a friend. They sound great. Have had opamps fail a few times, and they mail out replacements.

Not a lot of people realize they're not transformer balanced input, although Neve inspired – FWIW.

I could be talking out my ass here so take this with a grain of salt but...I seem to remember there was a time, a few years back, where they had some production issues. But as far as I know that’s been sorted out. I think they now have mkii versions of everything which is what I would be looking for if I was going to buy one. I have no direct experience so again, don’t take my word as gospel truth. I know by reputation that they’re very good sounding pieces and have almost pulled the trigger several times.

To clarify, I meant it seems common on Phoenix stuff. I have never had an op-amp fail in anything I own. As someone with essentially no 'tech' skills I want to keep it that way : )

I opted to go for the Miktek MPA-201. Seems extremely well engineered, 6 quality AMI transformers, excellent power supply design, variable impedance. Excited to try it out. I think if Miktek had given it a different aesthetic (more retro) people would be all over it. Its based off of old school 70's Neve designs. 

Actually, MF has a 15% code (ROADIE), so you can get the DRS Q4 MK2 for $1100 brand new, not even a restock. It was tempting. 

I have 4 DRS q4's here. One is a stereo unit, so I guess it counts as one, and two mono units as well as 2 of the 500 series preamps. Honestly, I love these a LOT. The 500 series also sounds exactly like the rack units. They sound Neve-ish but have more clarity. They adjust color fairly well but the color is on the output which isn't as easy to dial in for obvious reasons. The thing that really seals it for me is that somehow they get this tube like top end. It's a lot like my Sebatron Axis 200vu in that regard which is something I've never heard in a non-tube preamp. So while it is Neve-inspired, it's got it's own thing going on.

The EQ is really gentle and you can push around the knobs a lot. It's a great tracking EQ and even mixing EQ if you don't need tight curves. It's a little broad at times and I reach for the CAPI BT50 in those instances.

I haven't had any opamp issues in any of them. I think I've had the oldest ones 5-6 years. My first 500 series preamps. The only other real preamps I had before it was my Sytek MPX4a-ii which I still miss. Bummed they discontinued them.

Anyway, the build quality is good. As far as past build issues, yes that was a thing some years back, but when Robin got the company US-based, manufacturing changed and got better. They are fine units. They aren't like my John Hardy on the inside, or some other work of art built like a tank, but they are certainly fine, well made units. I've always had great interactions with Robin and co.