Preamp Deal of the Century

You know, Guidocorona, your post has the bias of supposing that because the First Sound Presence Deluxe II is at the bottom of the First Sound family that it must by default really suck. You cannot be further from the truth, and frankly, you are doing yourself a disservice by discounting the Deluxe II so readily. Why is it that such elitism exists in this hobby, in which only $50,000 units can only be considered worthy? Hell, if you're sitting on a pot of gold, then buy the First Sound Paramount Statement and be done with your search. That is if the First Sound "house sound" is to your liking. How about putting forth the effort to actually hear a First Sound? It can't be that difficult. Contact Emmanuel Go and ask him how.

Good luck on your search, and apologies for the rant. I feel better.

Thank you TVAD, loved your post!
But no, alas I have no bias. Rather I think in matrices. I was just observing and pointing out the slightly skewed distribution of comparisons in this thread and tried, and should say succeeded, to elicit a reaction. I did speak to Emmaneuel just today: unfortunately there is no First Sound in Austin where I live. Next week I'll be travelling to D.C. but there is no FS dealer there either. There is a proud FS owner in Virginia, not far from D.C., but that is outside of the D.C area.
I should really kick myself though. In january I ended up in Florida in the general vicinity of High End Palace and should have visited there, but did not realize Larry Diaz carried First Sound at the time.
I am delighted that you are defending FS!!

Actually, I am also interested in anyone who has heard both First Sound and Supratek units in a reasonably direct comparison.

Guidocorona, I was not so much defending the First Sound as I was railing against those who feel that nothing less that the top-of-the-line offering from any manufacturer is worthwhile. This surfaces again and again in these posts with many brands. Nevertheless, I hope if you are seriously considering one of the more exclusive First Sound products, and not just pouring gasoline, then you'll pay the $400 or less that it might cost for round trip airfare to visit a dealer and hear one for yourself. You often post and ask questions about only the most esoteric and exclusive gear, and I can't quite figure out if you're seriously looking to purchase, or just window shopping on Park Avenue. Know what I mean?

Didn't Waltersalas own the First Sound PD2 before he bought his Syrah? Don't remember if he had them both at the same time but he did mention his preference for the Syrah. Hopfefully he will read this and speak up.