On PMC, and only higher models including EB1i, I did not come across any speakers I prefer over PMC, with exception (yet to be sorted out), ATC SCM100 (active or passive) or Barefoot MM27.
On Bryston, have not heard 28B SST, but did compare 7B SST to quite a few amps from other manufacturers, models being approximately in their respective lineups where 7B SST is, whenever possible.
Those included Pass Labs, McCormack, Simaudio, Krell, Mcintosh. Speakers were PMC IB2.
All wonderful gear. But I continue to own 7B SST, for really a single reason, none of them do to the midrange what 7B SST does (or to be more precise does not do).
Midrange is significantly more open with 7B SST (for the lack of a better word), quite startling difference, this openness wakes up the life in voices and acoustic instruments. Very, very natural and effortless sound.
Bryston is usually mentioned when bass performance is discussed, or difficult loads that require lots of current, but I do not find it to be the reason to own Bryston over something else or v.v.
It is the midrange that sold me.
Since you already own Mcintosh, maye you ought to audition Bryston before switch, it should not be too difficult.
Otherwise, I would say go with Bryston, 7B SST being the minimum (not that 4B is bad, but 7B is special, and you are talking 28B anyway). And do not listen to James, he is too modest.
IMHO 7B and I assume 28B is better, if you share my preferences.
On BP-26, I have mixed feelings. It is not as transparent as I would like, but the problem is that there is nothing more transparent than BP26. Reason for such comments is that I have tried going direct to amps from appropriate sources (and they indeed have to be appropriate, must have quite capable analog section and good volume control), I liked results very much, but still have BP26 due to its versatility.
If I ever come across pre-amp that sounds like bare wire, I will get it.
The good thing is that with 7B SST transparency you get plenty of it, so the bare wire thing I am craving is not such a big deal.
On BCD-1, simply put, do not think, buy. It outperforms its price tag more than anything else, ever. If you want something arguably better (I say arguably because it is really top performer), you are looking at ballpark 8K or more. The only objection I have is the drawer (not performance wise but the way it operates, kind of scary
), but it is easily forgotten when you hear the sound.
