The Supratek was on my short list. Both the reviews and customer comments were great. However, I was uncomfortable with sending money half way around the world, and waiting 5 or 6 months for the product. I also had some concerns about service from that far away, and I didn't want to find someone here who may or may not know what they are doing. I'm sure Mick makes a world class product, and this is not a concern for many people. If those things don't bother you, the Supratek may be the right preamp.
I haven't heard the Vac preamp, but I was extremely impressed with their integrated. I hear great things about Kevin Hayse and his products.
About 6 months ago, I bought a First sound. I love it! It draws me in to the music like nothing else ever has. It got jaw dropping better when I replaced the stock 6922s tubes with some siemens 7308s. Emmanuel Go is a real gentleman, and his customer service is as good as his preamps! Emmanuel is a real craftsman. You might read the Todd warnke review of the First sound, which you can find on the net. He does a good job of describing the preamp.
You probably can't go wrong with any of these choices. If cost is an issue, I would suggest the Belles 21A. Like Emmanuel, Dave Belles is a real craftsman and his preamp is a steal at $2500 retail. It uses 2 12AU7 tubes, and has a remote. I can't say it is as good as the First sound, but it's dangerously close at about 60% of the price.
good luck
I haven't heard the Vac preamp, but I was extremely impressed with their integrated. I hear great things about Kevin Hayse and his products.
About 6 months ago, I bought a First sound. I love it! It draws me in to the music like nothing else ever has. It got jaw dropping better when I replaced the stock 6922s tubes with some siemens 7308s. Emmanuel Go is a real gentleman, and his customer service is as good as his preamps! Emmanuel is a real craftsman. You might read the Todd warnke review of the First sound, which you can find on the net. He does a good job of describing the preamp.
You probably can't go wrong with any of these choices. If cost is an issue, I would suggest the Belles 21A. Like Emmanuel, Dave Belles is a real craftsman and his preamp is a steal at $2500 retail. It uses 2 12AU7 tubes, and has a remote. I can't say it is as good as the First sound, but it's dangerously close at about 60% of the price.
good luck