Need amp suggestion for PBN Montana EPS2.

Ah, that's right--I recall from the OP. Perhaps a SS Mac preamp would be better. The cliche is that Mac tube gear sounds SS and vice versa. The 500C is supposed to be excellent though expensive.

I should add, though, that the brightness you heard almost certainly was not the MC501. It errs in the other direction. I've heard people say the stock C2300 is bright, however.

I am of the mind that tubes sound better with Montana speakers. But if it must be SS, that Plinius is a good choice.

Shakey

Agree that the MAC 501s roll the other direction from bright, but if that was a problem for your ear, the older MAC stuff like the 352, have less emphasis on the top end.

From what you had said about the deficiencies of the Brystons keeping them from being satisfactory, I'm betting you will favor the Plinius sound. Do let us know as I am checking into this thread from time to time....

I have success with Nuforce Reference 9V3's running with EPS-2's. Possibly their new Reference 18's might be what you are looking for.