I think part of the "reputation" that CC referred to came from systems which were using relatively analytical speakers, such as Magico and YG. Possible not the best system matching. And the 700 series is perhaps a bit more "ruthless" than the 500 series given Wojech's comments.
Wojech Pacula is an excellent reviewer - I normally read his reviews on his own website, and see that he is now syndicating with ETM rather than 6Moons. Funny business, internet reviewing/clickthroughs, etc.
I see Kev's system has undergone some pretty massive changes over the last few months. With a Lampi DAC, Strads, MC2301 - no sterility there, I suspect
The comparison with the Ref5SE sounds fascinating, and I hope there is more to come on the comparisons.
Congrats on the radically revised system Kev
