That old Bryston preamp was made before they really started engineering their products for home audio. The old "pro audio" stuff was only so-so.

It is not the best. i also think that the sound quality of the power amp is very poor.

I would encoursge you to get a good quality integrated amplifier.

You will get better sound quality that way; separates with the very good sound quality are pretty expensive.

I suggest that you look at the Arcam, Musical Fidelity, and Creek integrated amplifiers.

They all have excellent sound quality.

I have a Musical Fidelity M3i amplifier that cost me $1500, and is excellent. I am selling one of my homes and have surplus gear to sell right now.

it is like new and you could have it for $900; just like new. It puts out around 100 watts at 4 ohms or 8 ohms.

Get a GOOD integrated amplifier, and sell off the rest of that stuff. the improvement in sound quality will amaze you.

There are certainly better speakers than JBL for home audio.

I suggest that you look at Wharfedale, PSB, and Monitor Audio for good-sounding neutral speakers that are well-balanced and efficient.

I think what the OP has discovered is that a lot of pro-gear simply doesn't sound that good when compared head-to-head with good home gear. Yes, pro-gear is rugged and reliable but it's usually somewhat deficient sound wise.

IMO commsysman has given you excellent advice.

My advice is, ditch the JBL speakers. Find some that are not peaky in the treble and "in your face" in the midrange.

Focal speakers are also very good.