audible illusions vs supratek, vs holoaudio vs backert


starting to re-build a system and thought I'd start with some well known budget pre-amps that are supposed to punch above their weight.  i will be playing rock cd's only through atma-sphere m60's.  speakers and cd player are still TBD.  any thoughts/comparisons on these brands.  Obviously the supratek and holo are cheaper, but still wouldn't mind some overall feedback as I have never listened to any of them.

gwng8

 I have an extra supratek Syrah with phono I may part with in WI has a wonderful sound and synergy with my systems but I'm moving and downsizing.

I'm not going to debate anyone on what sounds better or worse than an AI preamp. But I have owned two Modulus 3a preamps throughout the years and for whatever shortcomings they had, they never sounded like a SS preamp to my ears. They were always rich in tone using Mullard CCAs. Where they could be beat was in transparency.

 

@ebm Noted the Supratek comment - agree! I have the opportunity for a 1 owner sparingly used 18 year old Syrah at a good price. It would have to be packed and shipped (professionally). I'm unfamiliar with their longevity/reliability - are you? I want to pull the trigger, but some insight there would be helpful. Also if there are service agents in the US.....

 

@ebm  Noted the Supratek comment - agree! I have the opportunity for a 1 owner sparingly used 18 year old Syrah at a good price. It would have to be packed and shipped (professionally). I'm unfamiliar with their longevity/reliability - are you? I want to pull the trigger, but some insight there would be helpful. Also if there are service agents in the US.....

@budburma -- member jslateiv is a stateside tech for Supratek, in North Carolina.

I sent my 20 yo Chenin in for a lookover and replace parts that might be due, cost around $500, highest recomend for Johnny's work,