I think I would agree that the Crack and DarkVoice 336SE are very likely better than a Little Dot III, and the difference is largely due to the use of the 6AS7 as a power tube. However, I still maintain that of the three, the LD is the best value for the least amount of money.
The LD III is $189 plus $45 shipping (to the US) for a total of $234, directly from the manufacturer. This includes one of the best warranty and support programs in the business.
The Crack is $279 plus $16 shipping (to Ohio, USA) for a total of $295, directly from the manufacturer. However, many believe that the Speedball upgrade is essential, $115, which would bring the total to $410. And this price includes a decent parts warranty and support. However, since this is a kit, obviously they cannot warranty the assembly, which means, if it doesn't work, it's largely your problem.
As best I can tell, the DarkVoice cannot be purchased directly from the manufacturer. In fact, I cannot find a manufacturer's web site for this amp, which leads me to wonder who is the actual manufacturer? And further, this leads me to wonder if there is a "manufacturer's warranty"? If not, the only recourse would be to send it back to the seller. A quick search reveals prices ranging from $263 to $299, all with free shipping (to the US).
While the DV costs more than the LD, the price might be close enough to be comparable. However, the warranty issue is something to consider. Given the LD's superb warranty, the DV might be a bit of a gamble, but yes, I think the DV is a better amp, if one is willing to accept more risk.
For someone who is comfortable with a soldering iron, the Crack might be the way to go. But frankly, I wouldn't purchase it without the Speedball option, and at $410, the price is close to the cost of the Elise, which is an even better amp, I believe.
So if one wants to spend something around $200, the LD III is very hard to beat in my opinion.
