bryston sp 7.1 or ead 8800 pro?????

There have been contentious threads about this subject which you can find with a search.

I believe the EAD 8800pro is sonically superior to the Bryston and to the Krell. This is based on lots of listening and comparing.

At the time I decided on EAD over Bryston....I actually WANTED the Bryston to sound better, because I was looking for a solution without video switching because I use an external video processor and let it do the switching.

But, quite simply, I believe that the EAD processors are sonically superior.

Also, the EAD folks have been incredibly responsive to customer input as they have refined the 8800pro software.

If you want more info, feel free to contact me at harry@brandtmd.com.

I have the EAD 8800pro in the system right this minute comparing it to a Bryston.

Lately I am 70% 2-channel, 25% Movie (Dolby Digital), and 5% DTS:neo6 music.

So far the Bryston/Jolida CDP bypass combo is the superior 2 channel sound (Soundstage, dynamics, and very black). Though the EAD's internal DACs are better than Brystons in 2 channel 44.1khz. Dont misunderstand me though the EAD in bypass is very good. Conclusion--- 2 channel with a decent or better CDP goes to Bryston. 2 channel with built in DACs goes to EAD.

The EAD sounds warmer with Movies. Some soudtracks are better warmer, some are not. Dynamics seem equal. Conclusion--- seems a push to me.

DTS:neo6 music seems more dynamic at lower wolumes with the EAD. But as you get to a mid volume the Bryston seems to open up. The center width control on the Bryston may give it an advantage. I prefer the least signal removed from the left/right. The EAD is a tad warmer here too. The Brystons 5hz increments with sub Xover helps me to better tune bass in my troublesome room. Conclusion--- if you like low volume, then EAD. If you like a little wolume with your multichannel music, well, I say a either one.

The EAD touchscreen remote is the coolest. Thought the solid metal Bryston remote is no slouch.

The full functioning interface on the front of the Processor is a nod to Bryston. My wife to be scoffed at the interface on the EAD.

These are just my very subjective opinions. I suggest auditions before you buy.

Distortion- I am not even involved in this, but I must commend you on an EXCELLENT posting- extremely comparative, and fanatastic little comparison- well done!