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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
audiofankj
373 posts
 
Kalan, thank you for the info. Please let us know your impressions on the Syrah versus the standard Deluxe Mk II, if you can, as they are much closer in price point.

Those with the First Sound Presence Deluxe Mk II preamps, any phono amp "relationships made in heaven" out there?
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drubin
3,267 posts
 
That's really a matter of match to your cartridge, not to the First Sound.
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.

keithr
1,306 posts
 
I wasn't a fan of the VAC standard--it was easily bested by VTL 5.5 and Cary SLP 98 when i A/Bd them all one day.

That said, i really want to try the new Phi integrated--but ouch! the price!
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