I had a first sound (now i forget the model! - presence delux mkII?) and opted for a counterpoint sa-11 (sound was similar.) that doesn't answer your question i know. you need to note which first sound your deciding between because there are big differences along with the big price variations.
I have owned both the Thor Audio TA-1000 preamplifier and the First Sound Presence deluxe MKll. Which model First Sound preamplifier are you comparing the Thor Audio with?
I hear the Thor TA-1000 with the TPA-30 and have been very impressed by both. I hav't heard the First Sound though so I'm afraid I can't be of much help here.
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