First Sound compared to Supratek, VAC, or Audio No

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!

The VAC REN is fantastic - agree completely with Bhouser. Bested a lot of preamps that I listened to, albeit not the ones listed above - Kevin, is one of the best if not the best in highend audio to deal with. He is open and honest - always willing to explain his product. He takes tremendous pride in his equipment and it is reflected in his work. While expensive, I have found that it will "get you off the merry go ground" and thus less expensive in the long run. Also, my experience has been that his designs "last a lot longer" in terms of overall improvements in the industry. What I mean is....you will not be longing for another upgrade for a longggg time. So, in essence you get more value from the purchase.

I purchased a first sound. I felt something was missing.I tried everything to get it to sound like I thought it should. I took it to a friend in college station-we put it in his system and listened to it via a walker. He then put a supratek sarrah modified by John tucker and it was all over for the first sound. the sarrah was music. When we put the first sound back in his system for one more listenmy wife ask " what happened to the music" I have been very happy with my supratek ever since

ralph smith

I've upgraded to the VAC Renaissance from the VAC Standard LE about 2 weeks ago. Conversation with a few 'Goners a month ago really got me interested in the Ren.
As "adequate" as the LE was IMO, the Ren is in a different level, as it should be. Build quality is excellent. The pics don't do justice to this preamp. It is dead quiet and not only is the soundstage broader and deeper, it's also taller. Notes that were barely audible on the far left and right of the soundstage from the LE is now more distinct. The bass is outstanding, going deeper, and much cleaner that I could've imagined. Grain and haze is non-existant. I wouldn't have called the LE veiled, but the transparancy of the Ren is amazing. Music has a whole new flavor for me.
Thanks to Kevin Hayes of VAC and to the fellas. It's an expensive decision but a whole lot easier to justify.

Ralph's post above is a bit suspicious.