Let be basic Nick, your knowledge is pretty pidgoen holed and serious blinkered.
Weather you feel SM is chasing your non humour chip or not, you do need to listen to a few well sorted home systems.
I've really have yet to hear any PMC/Bryston sound totally engauging & make wish to sit and listen. To my ears (which do occupy a place in the cosmos as do everyone elses) I find the combo good nothing more.
I'm not interested in how many rock stars or recording studios own them, that has no bearing on my personal tastes or indeed a great many personal tastes.