Questions about Musical Fidelity M5si Integrated

Hello,

I've been strongly considering the M5si integrated, and I have a couple of questions about it.

First, I have seen some posts in various forums about issues with using the HT bypass input, mainly things like noise, cracks or pops etc.  Does anyone here have experience with this amp and using the HT bypass on it?

Second, I am trying to get a reply from the manufacturer on whether or not this amp is a 'common ground' design, or instead if the negative speaker terminals are floating.  My speakers require that the negative speaker terminals are tied together.  Does anyone here know?

Thank you,
Greg