preamp for berning/merlin/audio aero system

Bobby from Merlin uses Joule Electra in his system, and now there's a new version that he has which is supposed to be even better(LA150 Mark II). Definitely synergy there with great full-bodied portrayal of instruments and very natural tonality.
Bobby has told me that many customers have also been happy with First Sound, CAT and Hovland. Like Dgarretson, I'm also currently using an Atma-Sphere. Critics have alluded to a brighter balance w/the First Sound. My CAT mk III was bettered in most respects by a Joule LA100 mk III. The Atma and Joule are both quite fine but different. It would be great if you had a chance to listen to them both.
Not too many comments about Lamm used w/this other gear...Cheers,
Spencer

Kevin,
In my experience, the Berning sounds lousy without a preamp. It does plenty great, but it isn't Superman. I don't know a single user who has tried any of the preamps mentioned above and concluded to run the Berning direct.
Also, unless plans have changed, I heard from David and Allen that their coming preamp is a SOTA design and will be priced somewhere > $10000. So it might not be in your range. Cheers,
Spencer

Kevin,
The FS has a great reputation. I've heard them at shows, but never at home. From what I've read here, should be a fine match. Looking forward to reading your reaction after you get some time with it...Cheers,
Spencer