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Audio Research ref3, vtl 7.5 vs FS paramount MKII

Has anybody ever compared Audio Research Ref 3 or Vtl 7.5 against First sound Paramount MKII? I leave in Europe and there are no First sound distributors therefore, I have never had the opportunity to test it myself.
My amp is an Accuphase A60, cpd Audio Aero 192mkII and Harbeth monitor 30 as speakers.

Can anybody help me please?

Thanks
salvo
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
I do own the Ref 3 and do love it on my fully balanced system. Having said that, Ref 3 shines definitely in balanced systems using XLR ICs. In single ended mode I have heard mixed opinions instead. I also love the VTL 6.5 MK2. . . have not heard the 7.5 MK2. First Sound can be sourced directly from the manufacturer. . . no need to go through a dealer if one does not exist in your area. Guido
salvo OP
5 posts
 
Thank you very much for your suggestions. Any First Sound owner has anything to say? Has anyone ever done a direct comparison between FS Paramount and Ref3?
thanks
Salvo
elberoth2's avatar
elberoth2
1,223 posts
 
A friend of mine, who also has Accu A60 (although he uses two of them bridged) auditioned several preamps in his system, and went with Ref 3.
salvo OP
5 posts
 
Thanks Elberoth and congratulation for your great system, I saw the picture. Any First Sound owner?
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Salvo, a direct comparison of First Sound Paramount with Ref 3 is a tricky business at best:
First Sound is a single ended design optimized to operate in a single ended system. . . it may not shine at its best when inserted in an otherwise balanced system.
Ref 3 is a symmetrically balanced designed optimized to operate in a fully balanced system. . . it may not shine in a single ended system. . . I know I do not really like its performance when I turn off the balanced signal.
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