Bryston vs MBL

MB1, Your point about the Pass 40 vs Krell is well taken! I plugged in my Krell 250 in place of the Levinson and the extra 300 watts at 4ohms was negligent.  Sound was tinny and lifeless with the Krell with the additional wattage that it supposedly delivered.  Im sure Krell has better amps but for now, steering clear of them.  My old Sunfire Cinema Grand sounded better.  So yes, your point about power is well taken. Perhaps i just proved to myself that power doesn't mean a whole lot.  I posted a new thread about Pass XA200.5 vs Pass X350.8.  IS the power difference significant?  Sound quality or characteristics?  

With reference to tubes, i decided to go with SS for now.  If i were to venture into tubes for amps, i would be looking at AR 250 monos to team up with the 5SE.

@mb1audio

I have not compared the Atlas to any of the Ayre amplifiers. I bought it on a recommendation from Audioconnection as a match for my Calypso preamp.

My system is posted here if you want to see it.

Best Regards,

Jim Perry

" I bought it on a recommendation from Audioconnection as a match for my Calypso preamp."

Say no more. John R is on another plane of existence compared to other high end retailers. In my opinion, AC and The Cable Company are the 2 best audio stores in the US. 

Just wanted to update you all.  I bought a pair of Pass XA200.5 second hand off Agon.  Thanks for all your input.