Atma-sphere MP-1 vs Mark Levinson 32

Springbok, if you like your Atma-Sphere amps, you probably will not care for the Mark Levinson in your system. The AS MP-1, or the Aesthetix Callisto, or the Aesthetix Calypso, or any of several other tube line stages would probably be a better match. That being said, I've never directly compared the AS MP-1 and the Mark Levinson in the same system. My thoughts are based on having heard each of them in different systems, and neither in my own system. I have the Atma-Sphere MA-2 amps and strongly considered the MP-1, but ended up going with the Aesthetix Io with volume controls instead due to my emphasis on vinyl.

i agree with Rush. i owned the #32 for 2 years and tried the Atmasphere MA2 Mk.II.2's with it......IMHO the OTL approach is better suited to either tubed or passive pre's. the #32 didn't sound bad.....but the clarity and neutrality of an OTL will expose the limitations of any pre. when i compared the #32 with passive on OTL's the passive 'killed' the #32. i have not specifically listened to the MP-1 but would agree that either the MP-1 or the Aesthetix Callisto (which i have had in my system and liked alot) would be ideal matches for the Atmasphere OTL amps.

another tubed pre i liked with OTL's in my system was the Lamm L2.

it is too bad that these great tubed pre's don't include a remote control for input switching and volume control.

the #32 is a beautiful preamp, built like a tank and very easy to use.....but not the last word in transparency.

Thank you both very much. The ML is so user-friendly and has such incredible features that it is hard to part with - but I wont know how much better the sound could be until I try a tubed, truly balnced preamp. Is the Lamm truly balanced? Why is that I cannot find a review (other than TAS Golden ear award with the M60 - 1/4 page - on the MP-1 - could it be that it is just not as "special" as the MA 2?
It is really hard to get advice about it, which is why I especially appreciate your input. How about the BAT VK-51SE?

Mike,
I've just looked at your system......fantastic! (I have little Kharmas - 3.2)
it seems the only thing you're short is a coupla Indra i/cs.......:)