i think that ML gets hit with the bias of the darkish sounding gear of way back. the 326s and the current 523 are superb preamps by any measure. i also think the 585 integrated lives up to the rave reviews it’s gotten.
we audiophiles pigeon hole a company’s sound whether they change over time or not.
as an example i won’t purchase mcintosh because i have a bias that their gear is somewhat dull sounding and doesn’t use high end audio parts. i have no idea what it sounds like today.
same for cardas. i’m biased that it lacks clarity being full and soft on top. is it still? i doubt it.
we audiophiles pigeon hole a company’s sound whether they change over time or not.
as an example i won’t purchase mcintosh because i have a bias that their gear is somewhat dull sounding and doesn’t use high end audio parts. i have no idea what it sounds like today.
same for cardas. i’m biased that it lacks clarity being full and soft on top. is it still? i doubt it.