Byron - I don't know if you saw my post in your other thread about Rega. But, first off, it's good to see that you've arranged a demo and are going to take a listen for yourself. As I said in your other thread, do make sure you listen to as many different systems (both in your price range and above it) as possible before you buy. As great as the Rega sound is (I absolutely love it), it may not be for you and you won't know this until you've tried a few different systems. As well as trying to work out what type of sound you actually like, it's worth considering what else is important to you vis-a-vis your components (aesthetics, build quality, what sources do you want (CDP, TT, computer, Ipod)?, budget, etc) and your listening environment (where will the hi fi be set up?, how will you be listening to the set-up, etc). Also, do you see this as the start of a new hobby and will you therefore want to make further upgrades pretty soon? The answers to these questions will determine what set up is best for you at this stage.
In respect of your specific question, you can absolutely run the Saturn through your Brio and it will sound very good. Will the Saturn sound more detailed and airy than the Apollo when played through the Brio - yes. Though will the Brio show the Saturn to the best of its capabilities, absolutely not. In fact, I think the Saturn outclasses both the Brio and the Mira. Despite the great Rega synergy, in my view neither amp is able to convey all that the Saturn has to offer. As an aside, the power rating of an amp is primarily important with respect to which speakers you're planning to drive, rather than which source your using.
If you think that you're likely to want to upgrade again in the future and have a limited budget now, I'd focus on buying one item which is a long term keeper and which you can build the rest of your system around. The Saturn is a very accomplished player (which many suggest punches well above it's weight) and would be a very good foundation for a really decent Hi Fi system. Whether it's the right way to go for you, really depends on your requirements and longer term aims.
I'd certainly keep in mind that Rega have a new DAC coming out soon. As I've stated elsewhere, I'm intrigued to hear whether the new DAC will bring the Apollo closer to the Saturn, whilst at the same time opening up the Hi Fi to other digital sources (computer, Ipod, etc). This may be an option for you too. Although, we won't know how good the Rega DAC is until we hear it.
In terms of Brio vs. Mira, make sure you have a listen to both and see what you prefer. The Brio really is a great little amp. I find it to have a good soundstage, natural character (particularly, in voices) and a really nice bounce. Though, it's not the most audiophile sounding of products, i.e., you get the feeling it's really more about conveying the music, than every little nuance of detail in the recording. Also, the Brio struggles with speakers that are harder to drive (hence why I ultimately switched from my 685s to the RS3s). I found the Mira to be similar in overall character to the Brio, but delivering more detail and refinement. Though, I wasn't sure it necessarily delivered significantly more musical enjoyment, which warranted twice the outlay. There are those that suggest that the Brio is actually a better amp, I certainly wouldn't say that. Though, I do understand the sentiment. When I bought my Brio, I ultimately couldn't justify the extra expense of the Mira. Part of me now wishes I'd spent the additional cash. I'd like a little extra detail, some more power and (this sounds inconsequential) a remote control. That said, would I trade in my Brio now to get a Mira? I'm still not sure.
Anyway, have a listen to the different options (including, some non-Rega kit) and see what you like best.
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram