Elite Preamps--Electon Images, Messenger, Tube Res


In my research for a hi-end tube preamp I came across some lesser known (to me anyway) elite preamps. Does anyone know anything about the following companies (e.g. years in service, reputation, Website, etc.) or where I can find info on their line of preamps:
* Electron Images (made in Canada by former Sonic Frontiers design guru I think)
* The Messenger
* Tube Research Labs (their website needs some work)

Thanks in advance.

Kevinzoe
kevinzoe
Kevin, I did not find it to be an issue. Emmanuel and I discussed the VTLs specs and he was not at all worried about the match.

Brian, wow. I didn't know you had a blowtorch. Are you running the CAT with it?
Hi Brooks...running JC-1s...a customer has borrowed them for a couple of days, and it's probably down to them or a pair of much more expensive amplifiers... Call me about the CAT, which should be quite a hoot as well...

Brian
Kevin,

Electron Images is owned by Mike Kerster, formally of Sonic Frontiers (SF Pre 3 design chief). He is now designing and manufacturing for Audio Note UK. He has designed and built I believe (four) Amati Preamps that are two piece state of the art tube preamps with MM/MC phonostage. It retails at $12K, but have seen one posted on the Gon for something like $5,500. The guy who bought that unit got a steal. This preamp does everything right, but takes alot (literally months) of break-in. It sounds analytical and dry prior to break in, but really opens up with time. I don't know if Mike is going to make anymore, but I would put mine up against any preamp built today. The only thing I don't particularly care about the Amati is the high gain. With my 18 WPC Audio Notes and 94db AN speakers, I can't crank up the dual mono volume controls too high. I'm actually using the MM phono with a MicroBenz MC (Reference) cart. Like I said, high gain!

Rob
Hello all, This is Darrin at Audio Limits
If Anybody would like to Audition the Messenger Preamps
We have them on Display. both the $12,500 model and the $25,000 model.. We are Located in Los Angeles,Ca.
And will be opening a Beautiful Brand new Store In Colorado Springs,Co. August 6th..
Come on in and get the Message from the Messenger..
It will blow your mind. Phone(661)252-9222. Website www.audiolimits.com