What do you think... Modular pre-amps in amplifiers?

[Aentons]

I'm curious as to your thoughts and opinions on the concept and various implementations of modular pre-amps such as the Randall/Egnater RM series and the newer (imo unfortunately named) Synergy systems.
https://www.synergyamps.com/

I know Billy Corgan uses/d several of the Randall RM-4 rack unit with some custom modules provided by Salvation Mods
http://salvationaudio.com/index.php?page=modifications

There is also Jaded Faith mods doing this sort of thing
https://jadedfaithmods.com/

There are other Randall models out there like the RM 1250 rack, RM 100 head, RM50 combo, RM20 and RM22 heads

https://youtu.be/_eVH5vUR8u8

[Willybomb]

All for it, personally.  It's pretty much what I do with pedals a lot of the time - My next one will have a JC120 paired with a Marshall of some sort...

[gordo]

The idea just never really seems to catch.  I recall Jeff Beck using the Seymour Duncan Convertible and I think that was the first modular I ever saw.  Thought the idea was brilliant.

[vizcities]

It's wild that you're mentioning this - I just started moving in this direction over the last month, & I am planning to pair a JC120 pre section w/various power amps. If you're a DIY nerd or amp addict, it kinda feels like a no-brainer.

[Aentons]

The idea just never really seems to catch.  I recall Jeff Beck using the Seymour Duncan Convertible and I think that was the first modular I ever saw.  Thought the idea was brilliant.

Cool, I wasn't aware of the Duncan stuff. Was definitely ahead of it's time

[Aentons]

My next one will have a JC120 paired with a Marshall of some sort...

I am planning to pair a JC120 pre section w/various power amps.

I had been thinking the JC120 and L5 pre amps would definitely be the way to go for solid state  options, but the MTS/Synergy one are all 12AX7 based and you use the same built-in power amp for all the modules. Seems like you'd want a modular power amp too. That way you could choose specific tube or solid state power which can make just as difference in the overall sound.

Are they just poor or limited implementations of the concept or is this just where rack gear takes over? I have my doubts about the edge card connector being right for high voltage stuff but not sure.