I know the Sparkos modules lowered the noise floor a good 10dB. The more direct conversions now available use the KSC1845 (maybe KSA992?) so I'm sure you're quite right. I've used these once but forgot to do a "before" measurement to note the improvement. I think your advice of replace on sight is a good plan.I replace every BA312 I see now.
Crazy how much lower the noise floor gets.
