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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
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!
scotty333
79 posts
 
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.
anesthesiafool
1 posts
 
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
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