[Kalman Rubinson[_3_]]

On 8 Oct 2009 22:26:18 GMT, Ron wrote:

I had a friend bring over a Bryston SP2 for a listen. The SP2 has an
on board DAC as well as an analog bypass mode. The sound when compared
to ML32 is completely different. The Bryston was harsh, bright,
imaged in a very diffused way, and lacked some of the subtle details
I've been accustom to from ML32. I will be auditioning other 5.1
processors but I am sceptical they will replaced my ML32 as my 2
channel pre-amp in my reference system. Does a 5.1 processor
compromise 2 channel listening or is there gear out there that does
both astonishingly well. My reference system is in my listening room
which is also a home theatre set up so having one pre-amp/processor
for both 2 and 5.1 listening would be ideal.

Bryston and ML appeal to different folks but I am pretty sure that the
ML No40 (or, perhaps, the new No502) would be closer to your tastes.
You might also consider the Cary 11A, the Classe SSP800, the Arcam
AV888 or, as some suggest, the AVP-A1HDCI(A).

Kal