Jeff Mackwood,

Really? You've never been able to hear a different between preamps? I agree that the difference can be subtle - especially when compared to the difference speakers or amps can make.

A preamp has to take that tiny little weak signal that your source outputted and just every so slightly magnify it. Inevitably, during such an exacting delicate process, something it going to be added or taken away. That's the characteristic of the preamp - for better or for worse.

As for 'musicality'... I don't think it's something you can really quantify. Musicality is what makes the magic happen. That "je ne sai quoi" that get's you feat moving. It's one of those things you just have to hear, and when you do, you'll know it.

To me, the biggest contrast from musical to not (in the preamp world) is between a Conrad Johnson Act-2 and Bryston SP2. Both top shelf pre-amps. The CJ is extremely musical - it has a lot of life in it. The Bryston is a great unit - very exact. It's perfect for HT, but compared to the CJ for music... It just doesn't have that "x-factor" for me. If you can get a chance to hear an A/B with those two (or something similar) you'll hear it.

A few months ago I had the chance to hear the new Revel Salons. I adore the previous version of the speakers, so I was really excited to hear the new ones. They are second to none (the new ones) for HT, but for music, personally, I find them a very hard listen. I was really disappointed. They are over-engineered and lack musicality (I feel). Compare those to anything by Sonus Faber.

My last effort, audition a Nakamichi receiver, and put it next to a Denon or a Harmon Kardon. It's not as night and day as the other examples, but it's definitely there. Two great companies, two great items and one is better for HT while the other shines at music.

I don't know the 950, but I've read great things. If it sounds like dog meat, there's something wrong!

Dvenardos, interesting solution. It seems we share the same problem. Do you have a 990 or 950?

Thanks everyone!