Matthewlevy-
No the Mk 2 is not just a Mk 1 with a lense on the other digital inputs. All the digital inputs did get a lens, but it is an entirley new digital board, which IMO made a big difference. I think you will find plenty of supporting evidence of that on the forums and in formal reviews. The Mk 2 was a substantial improvement in the area of being more natural, smoother, more open, and more "analog" as you are seeking. Better accross the board (pun intended). It is a very worthwhile upgrade as an intermediate step to the much more expensive DirectStream.
No the Mk 2 is not just a Mk 1 with a lense on the other digital inputs. All the digital inputs did get a lens, but it is an entirley new digital board, which IMO made a big difference. I think you will find plenty of supporting evidence of that on the forums and in formal reviews. The Mk 2 was a substantial improvement in the area of being more natural, smoother, more open, and more "analog" as you are seeking. Better accross the board (pun intended). It is a very worthwhile upgrade as an intermediate step to the much more expensive DirectStream.