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First Sound compared to Supratek, VAC, or Audio No

Hello. I have a FS Prescence Deluxe II and am very happy with it. I have read that people often prefer transformer coupled preamps to non-transformer coupled ones.

Does anyone have experience with the First Sound products and one or more from Supratek, VAC, or Audio Note? If so, how were they different?

I addition, I am curious if any First Sound owners have moved up their line? Where did you hear improvement? Overall, do you think is it worth the extra expense? Looking back, would you made a different choice? Thanks for your input. Brooks
brooksl

Showing 3 responses by noble110

noble110
49 posts
 
I posted on "preamp deal of the century" my comments of the First Sound Deluxe vs. Supratek Syrah. A short recap: The Syrah is an outstanding value, but the First Sound remained in my system. Check out the thread for more information.
Glad that you asked about First Sound upgrades as I am curious about the type of improvement vs cost.
noble110
49 posts
 
Audiofankj... you asked about phono amps. I use the ARC PH3SE which works very well with the First Sound. I have had several phono amps, but have only used the ARC with the First Sound. I would suggest that any high end phono amp will mate well with this pre.
noble110
49 posts
 
Addition to my post above.... the First Sound and ARC PH3SE phono with stock tubes was a easy winner vs. the Supratek Syrah ( has a very good built-in phono ). This comination does cost more that the Supratek, so I still place the Supratek as the best value ( with rolled tubes). But, for overall sound, dynamics, excellent tonal balance ( especially voice) & soundstage, this is a very nice combination.

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