A modular amplifier like this would be easier to service, but power amplifiers are generally reliable as an ax - they just don't fail all that often. Modular construction in something like a preamp/processor is a good thing for upgrade ability or allowing a choice of features to be configured by the customer. One potential downside to modular construction in a preamp like this however is that the motherboard that the "daughter" boards plug into must be obsolesence proof, which is almost impossible with rapid advancements in technology. Also, the cost of modular construction can often outweigh the potential benefits.

[This message has been edited by soundhound (edited February 07, 2004).]