Greetings
I also feel the Bricasti is a first class machine...
That being said one must take stock of what their goals are.
I would agree on certain studio recordings through the Bricasti has a nice full bodied boldness to them yet with live music recordings it was obvious to me something left an empty spot to the overtones and feel of the music.
Joe Bonamassa, Live at Royal Albert Hall, Nils Lofgren, Grateful Dead,
Heifitz, Munch Boston RCA ,any Nina Simone recording etc.
The Ayre QX5 when compared had convinced me the timing of the music was more in sync and correct the way we hear the leading edge fundamental the natural overtones preserved together.
With listening to better speakers that are more time correct, this was easy to hear the Ayres magic, feeling more involved in the venues timing of the music.
BTW for Vandersteen Live music is their reference, Ayre has followed this timing philosophy as well.
Make sure you hear a well broken in machine.
Best,
JohnnyR