Today I've listened to the bigger brother of the LS8mkII, the LS16mkII. Very open, transparant, 3D and sweet. I've ben told the LS8 has a bit less 'balls' than the LS16. If you like detailed, sweet sound but also want enough power (for rock etc.) than maybe a combination with a solid state amplifier is your thing. I use Bryston 7BST's and love the big, powerfull and controlled sound. I might just have found the Audio Research preamp just a bit compromised in power and impact (oppossed to its great clarity and transparancy), thats why I will listen at the Bryston BP26 now.
Good luck
Good luck