I am probably the only one on this web site that didn't like the Supratek pre-amp. That being said, I was using an 860x direct for about a year. I bought and waited for over 6 months for a Chardonay (I thinks it is spelled that way). After receiving it I just didn't like it. As a friend said it was "too much of a good thing". But with all of the great reviews that this preamp has received from this forum alone maybe it was just a synergy thing going on with my system. Anyway back to your question, I did/do use a preamp with my 860x, I just perfer the sound of a preamp vs. without. A friend of mine also has a Wadia and he likes it direct using the volumn controle of the Wadia. This is a tough call for you because there just is know way to audition one of the Supratek preamps, but I will tell you this, I sold the Supratek for exactly what I had into it including the duties and shipping. Hope this helps.......
