For the MP-1: again noise mods are a must.
However, I think the stock MP-1 distortion sound is just great as is and the MP-2 and Classic versions (patches) of this just don't sound as good as the original, just my opinion. Maybe the different gain structure in the MP-1 makes the difference.
MP-1 Mod4-MkII is fantastic. I've done 3 of these (and sold them on)
but each time it just put a smile on my face when playing through them. Really seemed to open the sound out. Hats off to MJMP and HB for this, great job there.
MP-1 3TM is just insane. I've done 1 of these (and sold on again). But just massive, mad distortion and strangely, lower noise!!! Could be the gain being spread over more stages? don't know, again MJMP and HB great job.
So yes, there is a bit of soldering, techy work etc, if modding. But don't be afraid to have a go. I think MJMP even has a new tube board now that allows the different mods to be pre-built - come on MJMP - chip in.