Calling all First Sound Preamp Owners

After trying a Bybee Signature Purifier, and an Audio Magic Stealth without any benefit (nor detriment I might add), I have settled on going straight to the wall. I've used ErnieM's Starquad Belden DIY cord with good results, and I'm now using a TG Audio 688. I'll add that replacing the wall outlets with Porter Ports provided the best bang-for-the-buck in the realm of AC.

I prefer to plug my First Sound preamp directly into the wall. I had a Blue Circle Music Ring 1200, which was a really nice power conditioner, but alas, I felt it slightly robbed the FS of some dynamics and bass.

I have everything plugged into my Balanced Power Technologies BP-3.5 Signature - EXCEPT the First Sound Presence Deluxe Mk II. This is a point Emmanuel Go was adamant about. When you first get the preamp, use the stock cord and tubes - straight into the wall while breaking in. Then experiment with power conditioners, cords, etc. after you are familiar with the preamp. After many comparisons, the First Sound preamp sounds best IMO going directly to the wall. (the dynamics and imaging seemed more compressed) This is the ONLY component I have owned that has NOT sounded better going through my balanced power conditioner. I do feel the aftermarket power cord has improved the performance of the preamp as well. I am using an Electraglide Mini Khan Plus at this time.

The greatest sonic improvement to the preamp was inserting NOS Siemens 7308 gold pin tubes.