What pre to use with Vons and Bryston 2B-SST?

Let your ears decide, the SST Bryston's are pretty good amps. Many folks, just pile on Bryston, without any good reason.

I would take very lightly, advice that any amp other than your Bryston, will solve your problem.

Trying different Pre's is a perfect start. I assume since its nearfield that its a fairly small room. If so, room treatments are critical. IMO, cabling becomes even more important in the nearfield too. Furthermore, I agree with you, I dont think the PS Audio makes a synergistic match with Bryston and VS.

Finally, after trying the new Pre if it is still not involving. Try a few room treatments (towels, blankets, and pillows make for an interesting experiment)and maybe a cable change or two. I liked Harmonic Tech with Bryston (Truthlinks are inexpensive and very available used)Surely by this point you will have found some characteristic that you like and begin to build upon them. In the end it may be the Bryston. But I suggest small steps building up towards what you want. Dont toss the baby out with the bath water.

You could try Power conditioning, or removing it, as an experiments well. Oh yes and definitely tweaking the speaker positioning. Thats very important in small rooms.

Oh dear, another tube convert, LOL! Tubes are sweet no doubt.

I am not surprised the BAT bounced the PS or the Bryston. The BAT Pre's are top notch and as far as I know the Amp section in this piece is also top notch. But, then again it is a $5500.00 Integrated!!

Those are excellent Tube Integrated choices. You dont think any other tube Preamp could add enough warmness?

BTW in my opinion BAT isnt really all that warm. Also my opinion, if I were in your shoes, I would probably keep the Bryston and buy that used Supratek Pre that came up today! I like Bryston though. Cant you tell! =)

The little Onix SP3 is a smooth and warm all tube integrated, available cheap, used and new. Might be worth a try.

Jlind, I understand completely and I would be willing to bet that you will no doubt find something that works just right for you. IMO, you have an excellent plan and are implementing it perfectly.

I used to have a 325is, a '93, had it for 10 years, I sold it a few years back. I loved that car. Great brakes, tracked on rails, great balance, huge fun drive!

No. I drive a pickup truck. I really miss the bimmer though.

I would love too, but family duties usurp that desire. Being addcited to audio doesnt help either!