Unfortunately I will not be able to audition before I buy. I am leaning more towards the ML 27.5. I have read on the net that the 27.5, 29 and 23.5 are possibly the best Levinson has done. Also the 27.5 is the cheapest of those on offer but I did not want to buy on price alone.

My source will be digital, probably Bryston BDA-1 and BDP-1 which I have heard and was impressed. They have been replaced by newer models and are available at a good price. This will feed a DIY Aikido valve preamp into the as yet undecided power amp driving some Tannoys in OB with servo subs.

With subs fleshing out the low end I do not have to have an amp that specializes in bass like some Krell I heard. The mids and tops of the Krell were not to my liking but the propulsive bottom end was a treat.

My circumstances have changed and it is unlikely that I will be able to build any more valve stuff hence my interest in a transistor hulk.

Used Pass amps seldom show up in my country. Maybe that tells me owners do not readily part with their Pass kit . What I did hear that suggested itself as ideal is a Plinius. Sounded gorgeous with an Audio Note DAC. Only once have I seen a used Plinius for sale.