I've experimented with an SB2 and GaryG's Big Ben and there was a definite improvement. There is also an improvement with my current SB3 -> 518 than the bare SB3.

I've not heard a transporter yet, but I have heard Patrick Dixon's SB+ and again on digital only there was an improvement with the SB+ over the SB2 into a 566.20

I have also got a modded SB2 with a seperate regulator supplying the power to the SPDIF circuit. I should really compare the following:-

(SB2 + SPDIF regulator) v SB3 v SB3 + 518 v (SB2 + SPDIF regulator + 518)

I also have a fully regulated linear PSU as well, so could throw that into the mix as well.

Alternatively I could just go and buy a Transporter (or SB+)!

The biggest difference we noted when testing at GaryG's was the attack of the notes.

Mr Perceptive