First Sound compared to Supratek, VAC, or Audio No

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.

Thanks for your thoughts. I have read some of the Preamp Deal of the Century. I haven't made it to your post yet.

I spoke to Emmauel about what the other models improve. It seems to me the main difference is a lowering of the noise floor. Emmauel spoke of a customer relating how a Paramount revealed more information in a very familiar recording.

I really want to give Emmaunel more business because he is so helpful and kind. My dilemma is that the upgrade to the next model is the difference in retail price which makes it twice as expensive as buying a used unit. For example, there was an Ultimate Paramount (15K retail) lingering here for under 6K for a long time. I regret not buying it.

I've got both Audio Note and Supratek in my system at this moment. Soro SE Phono & Syrah. Right now, I'm using the AN just as an amp. The SYrah rpelaced the integrted functions. The AN pre is the same as the M2, and the Supratek beats it hands down.

Now while this may be a little farther down the AN line than you are looking, I think you would have to get to at least the M5 to beat the Supratek. Then you get into the cost v. benefit argument.

It takes a lot of preamp to beat the Syrah, especially for phono, my main concern. And it sure is nice looking!

Joe