What can you tell me about First Sound pre-amps?

Artg, I hate to see you needlessly chasing the Holy Grail after you've posted so many times about how thrilled you are with your system, that's all.

Regarding the "noise", that was my interpretation of what you said. I figure any lack of transparency or inner detail comes down to noise in the system, albeit an extemely small amount of noise at specefic frequencies. Most all upgrades involve improving the power supply and power delivery to make things quieter...and reduce noise. Certainly I agree that the PS II isn't the last word in the First Sound line. I'm sure you'll agree that all the improvements in the First Sound models as one moves up in price are directly related to improving and isolating power delivery.

Have fun. Perhaps there's an Audioholics Anonymous meeting nearby? You need it, my friend! :)

Of course you are correct. In my opinion, to my ears, in my system I dont think the source, cables or amplification is going to change for a long long time, unless I win the lottery, so i'll continue my binge buying/listening on the preamp side of things, and may very well end up back where I started, but that's part of the fun - the trip.

Bottom line, if you buy value, it's relatively painless to rotate gear in/out. It may not seem sane, but trying new things can both be a curse and a blessing. To me, its fun.

Artg, you're right about buying value. If you buy it right, you can play around and not get hurt. Keep your fingers out of the sockets and have fun.

well, anyone interested in the authentic 1960 pinched waist 6922's?

I had a FS passive preamp and loved it - great musicality and finesse - and Emmanuel is a terrific guy. You cant go wrong, just check for equipment sinergy.

Fernando