Your top 5 favorite companies and WHY???

[JustinKim943]

1. NOW - They manufacture my favorite multi-vit and supply all the vitamin and minerals u need, at a affordable price. I also buy dextrose/maltodextrin from this company, which is a plus.

2. Optimum Nutrition - Supplier of my protein, fish oils, etc at a affordable cost.

3. Syntrax - Fyre, Swole, and the tastiest protein ever - Nectar??? They make incredible products.

4. Anabolic Innovations - Their products are soooo cheap, and is offered at many flavors. Also their food are scrumptious

5. Controlled Labs and Scivation/PrimaForce - I can't choose which one I prefer more.... Both make great products.

[boyscouT]

1- NOW..... multi, fish oil, dex, malto

2- Dymatize Nutrition..... protein

3- Designer Supplements..... creatine and fat loss supps

4- MAN..... creatine and beta alanine supps

5- Molecular Nutrition..... x-factor baby.

PS: Deliberately left out SNS, because I rep for them.

[Coulaid]

2- Dymatize Elite

Thats a product

[boyscouT]

Thats a product

Fixed just for you babe <3.

[tranceaddict]

ON - Quality protein

Universal Nutrition - good creatine/NO products

[fitnfirm]

ALR Industries- Jungle Warfare, Hyperdrive 3.0, Special Tactics, Lean Dreams, Lipolytic Whey Protein ( yummy) N-Gorge, Primed, Regeneration X


Designer Supplements: Melting Point, Basic cuts, Xceed


Anabolic Xtreme: Stimulant X, Retain


Controlled Labs- White Blood

[Seth25]

1) Designer Supplements- Melting Point,Sustain,GXR

2) Now- Adam and EVERY OTHER supplement they make.

3) Ergopharm- GF-Pro,6oxo,1-no,Mass Meal,Amp

4) Gaspari- Size On,SP250

5) Can't really decide,- MAN,Get Diesel,Met RX,Thermolife,Xtreme Formulations

Last- ****

[pu12en12g]

1. CONTROLLED LABS

- Supplements for the natural athlete
- Best customer service in the industry
- Free samples
- Both powder and capsule options
- Bang-for-buck
- Innovation (first OEE on the market, First OEA on the market, First GMS based standalone volumizer on the market, First MCC+DCM creatine that tastes good and mixes amazing, nEuphoria )
- 105% satisfaction guarantee
- Improved taste of WRAATH based on customer feedback
- In addition to the customer service, a great team of different backgrounds that walk the walk, ready to help consumers get the best results

2. ErgoPharm / Giant

- Patrick Arnold... nuff said
- Free samples (AMP)
- Protein flavors and formulation... incredible GET SOME GF-PRO TODAY.
- New Giant Nutrition lineup
- Innovation (specifically 6OXO and AMP)
- Bonus point because they got screwed by the media...

3. Omega Sports / Custom

- Convenience and bang-for-buck
- Innovation (Specifically Thunder, Cerebral, and PowerJolt)
- Bulk powder option and flavor choices
- Bonus points because they got screwed by the FDA

4. **** / Gaspari / MAN / SAN / AX

- 5-way-tie.... good companies for obvious reasons
- The AX web guys are amazing
- Free samples (StimX / Scorch)

5. Scivation / Primaforce / "Monster Maker"

- Decent group of guys, and great looking gym bags
- Would be ranked higher if Mike didn't sell
- Derek is awesome. The rest of the entire industry could learn a ****load from him.

[cakedonkey]

These would have to be my favorites:

1. S.A.N. Nutrition (S.A.N.N.)--the absolute leaders in innovation and quality. Period. Call it bias, but my character inherently implies that I will never stand behind something that I don't believe in. I've recommended S.A.N. products for as long as I can remember (long before any sort of affilation took place, that is). Simply look through the line and you can see that the formulations are novel and designed from a very scientific perspective. V-12 and V-12 Turbo practically invented the "cell volumizer" category. Infusion still stands as the best MRP on the market (Designer Superfood). VAULT is a groundbreaking cell volumizer that is rivaled by very few. Attitude is an all-too-often overlooked option for users looking for increased testosterone without having to turn to the illegal side. Tight! is easily one of the most trusted fat-burners around today--the formula has stood the test of time. VasoFLOW as well as the soon to be released V12 HP844 also boast extremely novel formulas, and have once again brought innovation to two areas where the industry has been lacking as of late (NO-precursors and Strict Endurance). Lastly, but definitely not least important, S.A.N. products are manufactured under GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) standards as well as every last lot being HPLC tested for potency and purity of each active in every product. Take this for what it's worth.
   
   
2. M.A.N. Sports--Joey is a supplement artist and puts his heart and soul into the formulas he releases. Scorch is without a doubt a novel and extremely effective formula--raspberry ketones as well as xanthinol nicotinate, as seen in the most recent version of Scorch, are already being knocked off by various competitors. Body Octane is the original and effectively dosed purely endurance product featuring two compounds Joey saw so much potential in, and have now grown out of control in terms of popularity (yes, I'm talking about beta-alanine and citrulline-malate). Beyond the novel compounds, they are effectively dosed, as per the literature (very few companines can say this). Another compound that M.A.N. Sports brought to the market was orotic acid. Furthermore, Joey's character & integrity are matched by very few, and he should be looked at as a prime example of how one should conduct their business.
   
   
3. NOW--the leaders in the "generic supplement" business. These guys are also GMP certified, so you can certainly trust whatever it says on the bottle to actually be in the bottle. The prices on everything they offer are fantastic, and the potency of all of their products are fantastic (e.g. their "EGCg" green tea extract product is 50% EGCG). NOW's line of multivitamin/mineral formulas are unparalleled (e.g. ADAM, EcoGreen, VitMin). Another thing that NOW likes to do is offer a product that is well-known and works, and then they throw in extra actives that offer potential synergy. Whey protein isolate, as well as creatine can also be had from NOW; in fact, there probably isn't a supplement you can think of that NOW doesn't offer--hard to believe, but true.
   
   
4. Scivation/Primaforce--an absolutely fantastic company run by Marc Lobliner. Strict quality control (as seen by the lab reports posted with each product release), as well as great prices and desireable formulas make Scivation and easy company to like. Xtend is simply the best BCAA formula on the market offering citrulline malate as well as glutamine, all while tasting good (note: this isn't easy to do). NOxidant is simply one of the best antioxidant formulas on the market, though due to be underappreciated has been discontinued since. Furthermore, the Primaforce line, which is intended for non-novel, commodity type products, boasts Lean Green, a 50% EGCG green tea extract, to things like ALCAR, and even Phenibut. Scivation also has a very impressive R&D board. In short, affordable, proven supplements.
   
   
5. Xtreme Formulations--one of the originals, and all too often overlooked company. Xtreme Formulations should be thanked a thousand times over for originally bringing a properly dosed (2:1:1) and properly flavored BCAA formula to the market; it was a stepping-stone for more recent formulas such as Xtend (Scivation). Anator, MyoZene, and formulas of the like were inspirsed by none other than Relentless and Vendetta. Sister company, Black Star Labs (BSL), offers a product called GO! which is one of the best, if not the best, properly dosed, low-caffeine nootropic formulas available on the market. Another thing, how could I forget Ultra Peptide? Micellar casein and whey isolate. No bull****, the original micellar casein-based blend with flavoring that is second-to-none. Furthermore, while many may not be aware, Xtreme Formulations used to make a product called FROST which is what inspired Designer Supplements to come out with Vigor, which basically follows the same formula (identical, I'm quite sure). Xtreme Formulations is one of the leading innovators in the supplement industry and is by all means underappreciated. This is simply a case of "giving credit where credit is due."
   
   
6. Designer Supplements--their name suits them well. They not only brough the first TTA (tetradecylthioacetic acid) product to the market with Melting Point, they introduced the first novel ATD formula with Rebound XT, and the first 7-OH product with Lean Xtreme. I also can't forget to mention things like ActivaTe and Glucophase-XR, both of which are so novel to the point that it's sickening, and they all contain plenty of literature (as well as user feedback) to back efficacy. DS also practices strict quality control, as lot testing can be found on their website. Very respectable team, as well.
   
   
7. Molecular Nutrition--arachidonic acid (X-Factor). Enough said? Perhaps, but many forget to realize how groundbreaking and how novel the product actually is. The amount of research that's gone into the product [by Llewellyn] is simply mind-blowing, although understandable for the mechanism of action seems to be very complex. X-Factor has been ripped off by a company I'm not even going to waste my time typing, which is rather unfortunate. Yet, as more and more realize the merit this product has for true muscle growth & fat-loss, the more one can only expect knock-off to arise (re: without a license to use AA). Molecular Nutrition should be recognized for stepping outside of the spectrum of so many closed minds and brining a completely new ingredient onto the market.
   
   
8. Omega Sports--a great company run by a great guy (Matpal). Very underappreciated line of products, without a doubt: Thunder is a very well put together CEE/GMS formula that was one of the orignals when the whole CEE story started. Moving on, Power Jolt is an effectively dosed nootropic/stimulant/adaptogenic formula that I've not yet seen rivaled (considering price as well). BURN3D is a potent EGCG/TTA/Forslean product which would be an ideal blend of non-stimulating lipolytic actives. The price is reasonable on all products offered by Omega Sports, and the formulas are no bull****.
   
   
9. ErgoPharm--what else is there left to be said about this supplement giant? Lead by world-renowned chemist Patrick Arnold, one can only expect good things. They innovated pro-hormones back in the day with things like 1-AD, and today are still releasing novel formulas, such as their unrivaled stimulant, AMP. Considering the caliber of such a company to actually introduce entirely new compounds onto the market (such as AA with Molecular Nutrition), you can only respect such a move. Psychotropin is an incredibly well put together adaptogenic formula and All-In-One is perhaps the best EAA product on the market.
   
   
10. Avant Labs--just hearing the name makes me think of some badass flipping through PubMed. Not really, but these guys have some of the absolute best minds and formulas in the business. Guys like Par Deus, Loki, and Spook are simply "not-to-be-****ed-with" when it comes to anything relating to supplement science. Take a look at formulas like H.E.A.T., as well as their LeptiGen line. Truly novel. Furthermore, their transdermal fat burners are some of the only effective on the market (and if you don't believe transdermal fat-loss is real, you clearly haven't read Par's article on it).

Note: the companies on this list are ones that I've actually used. While there are plenty of other notable companies on the market (Controlled Labs, SNS, ****, Gaspari, among others), these are the ones I've actually had personal experience with, and can comfortably recommend, and can appreciate their innovation.

[boyscouT]

Damn cake you went all out, lol.

[SirSavageX]

1) Avant Labs

Several years ago we had the most effective OTC hormone products, period, with One, One+, 4-Aderm, and Nor-Aderm. These are products that have yet to be surpassed by any other OTC product, though many have tried.

We revolutionized spot reduction of subcutaneous fat by providing formulas that actually worked to reduce fat in the area applied, rather than just reduce water. When capsaicin and/or clen are added, it must be experienced to be believed.

We revolutionized spot reduction of visceral fat with Ab-Solved.

We revolutionized non-stimulant fat loss and good health products by bringing sesamin mainstream.

We brought the impact that leptin has on bodyfat to the forefront of the supplement industry and were the first to make products to manipulate it.

We started viral marketing (board repping) in this industry several years ago, right here on bb.com.

We created possibly the two most respected online communities at avantlabs.com and mindandmuscle.net.

'Nuff said, but that's just the beginning.

2) ErgoPharm

Two words, one man- Patrick Arnold. If it weren't for him, a lot of our trend setting products probably wouldn't have been developed.

3-5 in no particular order)

Designer Supplements, MAN, Kilosports, Gaspari, Thermolife, USP Labs, SAN, etc. Take your pick. All have made great contributions to the industry.

[uhockey]

1) DS - I wouldn't be here if I didn't believe in the mission and the products. With the addition of Sustain and Replenish we cover ALL bases in terms of nutrition, weight loss, weight gain, recomp, pre/during/post workout. Health products such as Vigor and GXR and more novel products than almost anyone else out there right now. We lead......others follow.

2) Scivation/Primaforce - Service, service, service......and TOP quality. CoAs, great formulations, great products, a great team.

3) MAN - Joey and Androgenic plus Body Octane and Scorch V3? For such a small lineup to contain two of the best products on the market says a lot about attention to detail.

4) Gaspari Nutrition - Admittedly I've not used nearly as many of their products as I would like to have, but you can't deny their innovation. For one of the "larger" companies out there, they don't simply copy trends and produce overhyped literature. Love him or hate him, Bruce knows his ****.

T-5) Thermolife - Need a bigger lineup, but dicana is stellar and the feedback on Ebol is beyond impressive so far. Could stand for less "reps," but the majority are good.

T-5) Molecular Nutrition - One product, but it is damned good.

[1-Testosterone]

1- NOW..... multi, fish oil, dex, malto

2- Dymatize Nutrition..... protein

3- Designer Supplements..... creatine and fat loss supps

4- MAN..... creatine and beta alanine supps

5- Molecular Nutrition..... x-factor baby.

PS: Deliberately left out SNS, because I rep for them.

boyscouT, you are great!
It takes some courage to do that.

Barring you, every rep has his/her company on the top!

[uhockey]

boyscouT, you are great!
It takes some courage to do that.

Barring you, every rep has his/her company on the top!

I dunno......I'd prefer a rep to believe in the company he/she works for enough to consider it the best.

I guess it's commendable......

[1-Testosterone]

I dunno......I'd prefer a rep to believe in the company he/she works for enough to consider it the best.

I agree with you but that's NOT always the case!

You also know that

[uhockey]

I agree with you but that's NOT always the case!

You also know that

Obviously......because there would be a LOT of wrong people out there aside from myself, art, chris, kris, nate, chuck, steve, and rob.

[Bloute]

1- Designer Supplements :

I simply love this company so much great products specially Activate, Replenish and Xceed. It's great to get almost all your supps from one company you trust. Finally, the customer service is incredible. Good Job TP, Mike and Rob.

Edit : Dont forget the COA for DS also.

2- Man

One word : Innovation. Really unbelievable to see so much great products like Clout,BO and Scorch with a line under 10 products. Great job.

3- Scivation/ Primaforce

Great customer service, great products, COA. What else do you need from a Company ?

4- SNS

Also, one of my favorite. They got weel designed supps, great price and the Steve is great. A lot of supps I used and also COA.

5- Ergopharm/Giant

First and should be enough said : Patrick Arnold. COA. Also, their line is very solid it covers everything you need.

Those are the companies I am buying all my supps from. They are my favorite but there still a lot great companies : Avant, Gaspari and MN for the innovation, Now for all their basic products at great price.

I didn't include ThermoLife in the list because I feel it was not fair to rank the company I rep for in the list.

[LatissimusDorsi]

1. NOW (for ADAM)
2. CL (for everything)
3. Gaspari (for innovation)
4. ON (for whey and melatonin)
5. Molecular (yepp.)

[pu12en12g]

I didn't include ThermoLife in the list because I feel it was not fair to rank the company I rep for in the list.

How would it be unfair... seems fair to me.. put em up there !!

Great thread !

[pu12en12g]

1. NOW (for ADAM)
2. CL (for everything)
3. Gaspari (for innovation)
4. ON (for whey and melatonin)
5. Molecular (yepp.)

Wow... between NOW and Gaspari is a good spot to be ! Thanks for the support

[Bloute]

How would it be unfair... seems fair to me.. put em up there !!

Great thread !

I agree I should have put TL in the list and if I wasn't a rep ThermoLife would in my top two for sure. But, I don't want to see a lot of haters coming to this thread and posting that reps are biaised and all that stuff that we see every week on this board.

I have no problem with you or Mike ranking your companies first. I think it is fair and I know you two really believe in your product lines.

Simply, I will not do it to avoid the bashing. But honestly, TL would be rank with DS at the top of my list .

[pu12en12g]

I agree I should have put TL in the list and if I wasn't a rep ThermoLife would in my top two for sure. But, I don't want to see a lot of haters coming to this thread and posting that reps are biaised and all that stuff that we see every week on this board.

I have no problem with you or Mike ranking your companies first. I think it is fair and I know you two really believe in your product lines.

Simply, I will not do it to avoid the bashing. But honestly, TL would be rank with DS at the top of my list .

Well said ! You guys have a great army ( ) of reps and it looks like you had a BLAST at the Olympia !! Those Thermo Girls =

[ab-swing asianbabe]

Wow... between NOW and Gaspari is a good spot to be ! Thanks for the support

You wanna be close to me or zach.. or BK?

[pu12en12g]

You wanna be close to me or zach.. or BK?

GASPari

[Bloute]

Well said ! You guys have a great army ( ) of reps and it looks like you had a BLAST at the Olympia !! Those Thermo Girls =

I still dont believe that I missed the O. Damn Russia.

[deserusan]

1. MuscleTech - This company is the driving force behind the supplement industry. Whether anyone here cares to admit or not I could care less, if it wasn't for MuscleTech the supplement industry would not be as big as it is today. The reason is that all the ads you guys love to bitch about drive the concept of supplements into the "average joe's" radar. They put the market on the map for those who weren't even looking for directions and for that I thank them.

Secondly, they support more bodybuilding shows, real bodybuilders, and industry publications so much so that those who are riding their coat tails (every company here) should pay hommage. Call me a hater, egotistical, whatever, deep down inside you guys know I'm right. Without them there would be no "industry." Also, a lot of you have made a ton of money from hating and manipulating forum "perspective" of this company that it is almost sickening at times. To each is own I guess because they laugh all the way to the bank and so do their athletes. I'm proud to say I was able to help give some of there quality supplements like Anator and GAKIC a fair chance on this forum.

Eitherway, they do real research in real universities, they support and actively pursue what so many love to rip off in the form patented intellectual property. Beleive it or not they started with one man with a vision. He took that vision as a supplement store manager and made his is first 300 million dollars within only a few years. It is a true rags to riches story and if some of you got your heads out of your asses you might one day "figure out" how to make your mark. I support them and will continue to do so.

2. Gaspari Nutrition - Admittedly, I was not a fan at all off this company when H-50 story broke in the Washington Times. Despite Caitlin's skewed perspective I did not like the shadow this cast on the industry. With all that said, Gaspari has become one of my favorite companies because they have not repeated the mistakes of the past and now have a lot of the ideals and visions I would like to see become reality in the industry.

There is a lot of potential for innovation out there but unfortunately way to many companies, including many mentioned in these lists, focus on copying other companies as opposed to doing any thinking for themselves. Gaspari is a true leader when it comes to innovation and bringing effective and almost ingenious products to the market. For that I salute them and I look forward to what they will bring to the table in the future.

I guess also have noticed a lot of banter between me and the Gaspari crew. I'm not afraid to say full out that I have a ton of respect for the business Rich Gaspari has built or the genuis founded in the mind of BK. This company is the prime example of a bodybuilder using his brain and business sense to evolve from the iron dungeon of a gym in New Jersey to becoming a player on the international supplement market. Take notice because they are going to be big.

3. Designer Supplements - This company is the one who gave me my first chance as a product tester less than a year ago. Believe it or not ladies and gentleman, I was a noob to this supplement section not to long ago and I have to say that this first chance to have a little soap box has created some kind of monster.

With that said, Designer has always had great products but is now making the tough transition to having a full product line from protein powders to more to some of the most advanced fat burning compounds out there. It's not easy but I'm glad they are abandoning the "anabolics" and looking to the future to the distant future and not just to the quick buck to be made today.

I have also come to respect the many of the employees of the DS crew and expecially Twin Peak and uhockey. These guys are a fountain of knowledge and some of the few people on the forum I would consider friends. I can trust their advice and know that they respect me for who I am despite not agreeing on certain issues.

4. Thermolife - I love this company for numerous reasons. The first being that I know and respect the owner Ron Kramer. This guy is very respectable in that he too, on a smaller scale, promotes innovation and does not like those that would detract from the industry image. We see eye to eye on many issues facing this industry and like me, he is not afraid to speak his mind.

Only recently have I tried some Thermolife products and must say they are impressive. Ron cares very much about quality which definately cuts into profit margins but then again if you know Ron, you know he will never cut corners. I know they have a few new products coming out this spring and some even bigger business ventures. Honestly, I can't wait to see what they bring to the table and to also kick back and enjoy a nice stiff drink at a strip club with all the Thermo crew come this March. My hat is off to you.

5. MAN Sports - I only recently tried Body Octane in a sponsored log and have to say that I was truly impressed with my education into MAN products. Despite not having a large line-up they are truly innovators being the first to bring beta-alanine to the market as well as rasberry ketones. As you can see quite a few companies that I'll leave nameless but have a strong forum presence have copied some of the MAN formulations. It saddens me but hopefully some of you, like me, will support innovation and quality over who dishes out a bunch of free product to garner support.

Both Joey and Shawn are great guys and I look forward to meeting them at the Arnold as well. We don't agree on everything but do share the same passion for innovation and functionally sound supplementation. I support them 100% and look forward to using Scorch (unsponsored) for my pending cut coming this Spring. These guys are a class act and how could you not love a guy that refers to himself as "Ricky Martin on steroids."

[1-Testosterone]

1. MuscleTech - This company is the driving force behind the supplement industry. Whether anyone here cares to admit or not I could careless, if it wasn't for MuscleTech the supplement industry would not be as big as it is today. The reason is that all the ads you guys love to bitch about drive the concept of supplements into the "average joe's" radar. They put the market on the map for those who weren't even looking for directions and for that I thank them.

Secondly, they support more bodybuilding shows, real bodybuilders, and industry publications so much so that those who are riding their coat tails (every company here) should pay hommage. Call me a hater, egotistical, whatever, deep down inside you guys know I'm right. Without them there would be no "industry." Also, a lot of you have made a ton of money from hating and manipulating forum "perspective" of this company that it is almost sickening at times. To each is own I guess because they laugh all the way to the bank and so do their athletes. I'm proud to say I was able to help give some of there quality supplements like Anator and GAKIC a fair chance on this forum.

Eitherway, they do real research in real universities, they support and actively pursue what so many love to rip off in the form patented intellectual property. Beleive it or not they started with one man with a vision. He took that vision as a supplement store manager and made his is first 300 million dollars within only a few years. It is a true rags to riches story and if some of you got your heads out of your asses you might one day "figure out" how to make your mark. I support them and will continue to do so.

2. Gaspari Nutrition - Admittedly, I was not a fan at all off this company when H-50 story broke in the Washington Times. Despite Caitlin's skewed perspective I did not like the shadow this cast on the industry. With all that said, Gaspari has become one of my favorite companies because they have not repeated the mistakes of the past and now have a lot of the ideals and visions I would like to see become reality in the industry.

There is a lot of potential for innovation out there but unfortunately way to many companies, including many mentioned in these lists, focus on copying other companies as opposed to doing any thinking for themselves. Gaspari is a true leader when it comes to innovation and bringing effective and almost ingenious products to the market. For that I salute them and I look forward to what they will bring to the table in the future.

I guess also have noticed a lot of banter between me and the Gaspari crew. I'm not afraid to say full out that I have a ton of respect for the business Rich Gaspari has built or the genuis founded in the mind of BK. This company is the prime example of a bodybuilder using his brain and business sense to evolve from the iron dungeon of a gym in New Jersey to becoming a player on the international supplement market. Take notice because they are going to be big.

3. Designer Supplements - This company is the one who gave me my first chance as a product tester less than a year ago. Believe it or not ladies and gentleman, I was a noob to this supplement section not to long ago and I have to say that this first chance to have a little soap box has created some kind of monster.

With that said, Designer has always had great products but is now making the tough transition to having a full product line from protein powders to more to some of the most advanced fat burning compounds out there. It's not easy but I'm glad they are abandoning the "anabolics" and looking to the future to the distant future and not just to the quick buck to be made today.

I have also come to respect the many of the employees of the DS crew and expecially Twin Peak and uhockey. These guys are a fountain of knowledge and some of the few people on the forum I would consider friends. I can trust their advice and know that they respect me for who I am despite not agreeing on certain issues.

4. Thermolife - I love this company for numerous reasons. The first being that I know and respect the owner Ron Kramer. This guy is very respectable in that he too, on a smaller scale, promotes innovation and does not like those that would detract from the industry image. We see eye to eye on many issues facing this industry and like me, he is not afraid to speak his mind.

Only recently have I tried some Thermolife products and must say they are impressive. Ron cares very much about quality which definately cuts into profit margins but then again if you know Ron, you know he will never cut corners. I know they have a few new products coming out this spring and some even bigger business ventures. Honestly, I can't wait to see what they bring to the table and to also kick back and enjoy a nice stiff drink at a strip club with all the Thermo crew come this March. My hat is off to you.

5. MAN Sports - I only recently tried Body Octane in a sponsored log and have to say that I was truly impressed with my education into MAN products. Despite not having a large line-up they are truly innovators being the first to bring beta-alanine to the market as well as rasberry ketones. As you can see quite a few companies that I'll leave nameless but have a strong forum presence have copied some of the MAN formulations. It saddens me but hopefully some of you, like me, will support innovation and quality over who dishes out a bunch of free product to garner support.

Both Joey and Shawn are great guys and I look forward to meeting them at the Arnold as well. We don't agree on everything but do share the same passion for innovation and functionally sound supplementation. I support them 100% and look forward to using Scorch (unsponsored) for my pending cut coming this Spring. These guys are a class act and how could you not love a guy that refers to himself as "Ricky Martin on steroids."

Your thoughts kick a$$. Couldn't have said it any better.

At the end of the day, we want bodybuilding industry to be a winner rather than any single company.

[pu12en12g]

These would have to be my favorites:

1. S.A.N. Nutrition (S.A.N.N.)--the absolute leaders in innovation and quality. Period. Call it bias, but my character inherently implies that I will never stand behind something that I don't believe in. I've recommended S.A.N. products for as long as I can remember (long before any sort of affilation took place, that is). Simply look through the line and you can see that the formulations are novel and designed from a very scientific perspective. V-12 and V-12 Turbo practically invented the "cell volumizer" category. Infusion still stands as the best MRP on the market (Designer Superfood). VAULT is a groundbreaking cell volumizer that is rivaled by very few. Attitude is an all-too-often overlooked option for users looking for increased testosterone without having to turn to the illegal side. Tight! is easily one of the most trusted fat-burners around today--the formula has stood the test of time. VasoFLOW as well as the soon to be released V12 HP844 also boast extremely novel formulas, and have once again brought innovation to two areas where the industry has been lacking as of late (NO-precursors and Strict Endurance). Lastly, but definitely not least important, S.A.N. products are manufactured under GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) standards as well as every last lot being HPLC tested for potency and purity of each active in every product. Take this for what it's worth.
   
   
2. M.A.N. Sports--Joey is a supplement artist and puts his heart and soul into the formulas he releases. Scorch is without a doubt a novel and extremely effective formula--raspberry ketones as well as xanthinol nicotinate, as seen in the most recent version of Scorch, are already being knocked off by various competitors. Body Octane is the original and effectively dosed purely endurance product featuring two compounds Joey saw so much potential in, and have now grown out of control in terms of popularity (yes, I'm talking about beta-alanine and citrulline-malate). Beyond the novel compounds, they are effectively dosed, as per the literature (very few companines can say this). Another compound that M.A.N. Sports brought to the market was orotic acid. Furthermore, Joey's character & integrity are matched by very few, and he should be looked at as a prime example of how one should conduct their business.
   
   
3. NOW--the leaders in the "generic supplement" business. These guys are also GMP certified, so you can certainly trust whatever it says on the bottle to actually be in the bottle. The prices on everything they offer are fantastic, and the potency of all of their products are fantastic (e.g. their "EGCg" green tea extract product is 50% EGCG). NOW's line of multivitamin/mineral formulas are unparalleled (e.g. ADAM, EcoGreen, VitMin). Another thing that NOW likes to do is offer a product that is well-known and works, and then they throw in extra actives that offer potential synergy. Whey protein isolate, as well as creatine can also be had from NOW; in fact, there probably isn't a supplement you can think of that NOW doesn't offer--hard to believe, but true.
   
   
4. Scivation/Primaforce--an absolutely fantastic company run by Marc Lobliner. Strict quality control (as seen by the lab reports posted with each product release), as well as great prices and desireable formulas make Scivation and easy company to like. Xtend is simply the best BCAA formula on the market offering citrulline malate as well as glutamine, all while tasting good (note: this isn't easy to do). NOxidant is simply one of the best antioxidant formulas on the market, though due to be underappreciated has been discontinued since. Furthermore, the Primaforce line, which is intended for non-novel, commodity type products, boasts Lean Green, a 50% EGCG green tea extract, to things like ALCAR, and even Phenibut. Scivation also has a very impressive R&D board. In short, affordable, proven supplements.
   
   
5. Xtreme Formulations--one of the originals, and all too often overlooked company. Xtreme Formulations should be thanked a thousand times over for originally bringing a properly dosed (2:1:1) and properly flavored BCAA formula to the market; it was a stepping-stone for more recent formulas such as Xtend (Scivation). Anator, MyoZene, and formulas of the like were inspirsed by none other than Relentless and Vendetta. Sister company, Black Star Labs (BSL), offers a product called GO! which is one of the best, if not the best, properly dosed, low-caffeine nootropic formulas available on the market. Another thing, how could I forget Ultra Peptide? Micellar casein and whey isolate. No bull****, the original micellar casein-based blend with flavoring that is second-to-none. Furthermore, while many may not be aware, Xtreme Formulations used to make a product called FROST which is what inspired Designer Supplements to come out with Vigor, which basically follows the same formula (identical, I'm quite sure). Xtreme Formulations is one of the leading innovators in the supplement industry and is by all means underappreciated. This is simply a case of "giving credit where credit is due."
   
   
6. Designer Supplements--their name suits them well. They not only brough the first TTA (tetradecylthioacetic acid) product to the market with Melting Point, they introduced the first novel ATD formula with Rebound XT, and the first 7-OH product with Lean Xtreme. I also can't forget to mention things like ActivaTe and Glucophase-XR, both of which are so novel to the point that it's sickening, and they all contain plenty of literature (as well as user feedback) to back efficacy. DS also practices strict quality control, as lot testing can be found on their website. Very respectable team, as well.
   
   
7. Molecular Nutrition--arachidonic acid (X-Factor). Enough said? Perhaps, but many forget to realize how groundbreaking and how novel the product actually is. The amount of research that's gone into the product [by Llewellyn] is simply mind-blowing, although understandable for the mechanism of action seems to be very complex. X-Factor has been ripped off by a company I'm not even going to waste my time typing, which is rather unfortunate. Yet, as more and more realize the merit this product has for true muscle growth & fat-loss, the more one can only expect knock-off to arise (re: without a license to use AA). Molecular Nutrition should be recognized for stepping outside of the spectrum of so many closed minds and brining a completely new ingredient onto the market.
   
   
8. Omega Sports--a great company run by a great guy (Matpal). Very underappreciated line of products, without a doubt: Thunder is a very well put together CEE/GMS formula that was one of the orignals when the whole CEE story started. Moving on, Power Jolt is an effectively dosed nootropic/stimulant/adaptogenic formula that I've not yet seen rivaled (considering price as well). BURN3D is a potent EGCG/TTA/Forslean product which would be an ideal blend of non-stimulating lipolytic actives. The price is reasonable on all products offered by Omega Sports, and the formulas are no bull****.
   
   
9. ErgoPharm--what else is there left to be said about this supplement giant? Lead by world-renowned chemist Patrick Arnold, one can only expect good things. They innovated pro-hormones back in the day with things like 1-AD, and today are still releasing novel formulas, such as their unrivaled stimulant, AMP. Considering the caliber of such a company to actually introduce entirely new compounds onto the market (such as AA with Molecular Nutrition), you can only respect such a move. Psychotropin is an incredibly well put together adaptogenic formula and All-In-One is perhaps the best EAA product on the market.
   
   
10. Avant Labs--just hearing the name makes me think of some badass flipping through PubMed. Not really, but these guys have some of the absolute best minds and formulas in the business. Guys like Par Deus, Loki, and Spook are simply "not-to-be-****ed-with" when it comes to anything relating to supplement science. Take a look at formulas like H.E.A.T., as well as their LeptiGen line. Truly novel. Furthermore, their transdermal fat burners are some of the only effective on the market (and if you don't believe transdermal fat-loss is real, you clearly haven't read Par's article on it).

Note: the companies on this list are ones that I've actually used. While there are plenty of other notable companies on the market (Controlled Labs, SNS, ****, Gaspari, among others), these are the ones I've actually had personal experience with, and can comfortably recommend, and can appreciate their innovation.

Nice !!!

[BiggJohn]

1. NOW - They manufacture my favorite multi-vit and supply all the vitamin and minerals u need, at a affordable price. I also buy dextrose/maltodextrin from this company, which is a plus.

2. Optimum Nutrition - Supplier of my protein, fish oils, etc at a affordable cost.

3. Syntrax - Fyre, Swole, and the tastiest protein ever - Nectar??? They make incredible products.

4. Anabolic Innovations - Their products are soooo cheap, and is offered at many flavors. Also their food are scrumptious

5. Controlled Labs and Scivation/PrimaForce - I can't choose which one I prefer more.... Both make great products.

Thanks for the kind words.

For the supplement minimalist (like myself) who just needs protein options they will never get tired of and occasionally a fat burner, Syntrax makes for a great fit.

I'll throw some support in for USPLabs. Jacob is without question the best innovator in the industry today. With the results I've seen from trusted sources on Anabolic Pump, 2007 is going to be a huge year for them.

[uhockey]

1. MuscleTech - This company is the driving force behind the supplement industry. Whether anyone here cares to admit or not I could careless, if it wasn't for MuscleTech the supplement industry would not be as big as it is today. The reason is that all the ads you guys love to bitch about drive the concept of supplements into the "average joe's" radar. They put the market on the map for those who weren't even looking for directions and for that I thank them.

Secondly, they support more bodybuilding shows, real bodybuilders, and industry publications so much so that those who are riding their coat tails (every company here) should pay hommage. Call me a hater, egotistical, whatever, deep down inside you guys know I'm right. Without them there would be no "industry." Also, a lot of you have made a ton of money from hating and manipulating forum "perspective" of this company that it is almost sickening at times. To each is own I guess because they laugh all the way to the bank and so do their athletes. I'm proud to say I was able to help give some of there quality supplements like Anator and GAKIC a fair chance on this forum.

Eitherway, they do real research in real universities, they support and actively pursue what so many love to rip off in the form patented intellectual property. Beleive it or not they started with one man with a vision. He took that vision as a supplement store manager and made his is first 300 million dollars within only a few years. It is a true rags to riches story and if some of you got your heads out of your asses you might one day "figure out" how to make your mark. I support them and will continue to do so.

2. Gaspari Nutrition - Admittedly, I was not a fan at all off this company when H-50 story broke in the Washington Times. Despite Caitlin's skewed perspective I did not like the shadow this cast on the industry. With all that said, Gaspari has become one of my favorite companies because they have not repeated the mistakes of the past and now have a lot of the ideals and visions I would like to see become reality in the industry.

There is a lot of potential for innovation out there but unfortunately way to many companies, including many mentioned in these lists, focus on copying other companies as opposed to doing any thinking for themselves. Gaspari is a true leader when it comes to innovation and bringing effective and almost ingenious products to the market. For that I salute them and I look forward to what they will bring to the table in the future.

I guess also have noticed a lot of banter between me and the Gaspari crew. I'm not afraid to say full out that I have a ton of respect for the business Rich Gaspari has built or the genuis founded in the mind of BK. This company is the prime example of a bodybuilder using his brain and business sense to evolve from the iron dungeon of a gym in New Jersey to becoming a player on the international supplement market. Take notice because they are going to be big.

3. Designer Supplements - This company is the one who gave me my first chance as a product tester less than a year ago. Believe it or not ladies and gentleman, I was a noob to this supplement section not to long ago and I have to say that this first chance to have a little soap box has created some kind of monster.

With that said, Designer has always had great products but is now making the tough transition to having a full product line from protein powders to more to some of the most advanced fat burning compounds out there. It's not easy but I'm glad they are abandoning the "anabolics" and looking to the future to the distant future and not just to the quick buck to be made today.

I have also come to respect the many of the employees of the DS crew and expecially Twin Peak and uhockey. These guys are a fountain of knowledge and some of the few people on the forum I would consider friends. I can trust their advice and know that they respect me for who I am despite not agreeing on certain issues.

4. Thermolife - I love this company for numerous reasons. The first being that I know and respect the owner Ron Kramer. This guy is very respectable in that he too, on a smaller scale, promotes innovation and does not like those that would detract from the industry image. We see eye to eye on many issues facing this industry and like me, he is not afraid to speak his mind.

Only recently have I tried some Thermolife products and must say they are impressive. Ron cares very much about quality which definately cuts into profit margins but then again if you know Ron, you know he will never cut corners. I know they have a few new products coming out this spring and some even bigger business ventures. Honestly, I can't wait to see what they bring to the table and to also kick back and enjoy a nice stiff drink at a strip club with all the Thermo crew come this March. My hat is off to you.

5. MAN Sports - I only recently tried Body Octane in a sponsored log and have to say that I was truly impressed with my education into MAN products. Despite not having a large line-up they are truly innovators being the first to bring beta-alanine to the market as well as rasberry ketones. As you can see quite a few companies that I'll leave nameless but have a strong forum presence have copied some of the MAN formulations. It saddens me but hopefully some of you, like me, will support innovation and quality over who dishes out a bunch of free product to garner support.

Both Joey and Shawn are great guys and I look forward to meeting them at the Arnold as well. We don't agree on everything but do share the same passion for innovation and functionally sound supplementation. I support them 100% and look forward to using Scorch (unsponsored) for my pending cut coming this Spring. These guys are a class act and how could you not love a guy that refers to himself as "Ricky Martin on steroids."

I can honestly say I'm honored to be mentioned along the same lines with the other persons in this post. And, as much as I believe they are selling overhyped hopes to the hopeless, I can't disagree with a word you said about MT.