first, glad you found the sonic taste to your liking with Venture line, but I'm sadden that you drop the ball on MBL 111e. I don't think you have set it to it potentual. To me, there is no cone driver can do what MBL can. The musics just flows effortless and the sound, sound alive & real. Isn't that we all looking for in a system?
Secondly, I do agreed with others recommendation, upgrade pre, amps, cablings and MOST IMPORTANT, room treatment. Your room is 50% important and the other 50% is your system. The treatment define your bass and help the mid & high more clearer. It make the whole presentation more detail and transparent. Its like getting your window wash & clean. I didn't believe it at first, but it make a believer of me. Another thing, I would stick to one company with my gears and that will take the system match out of the equation.
Now, I'm no Bill Gate son (Btw, he has not just one but two MBL 101 Extreme Reference systems, LUCK DOG! correct me if I'm wrong) I have my share of saving & more saving & lusting for MBL gears & more, more, more saving for a loooooong time to get where I'm today with all MBL gears, thanks to Audiogon. I know they are expensive but I don't regret it at all. To me, the MBL is the EXOTIC line of audio gears and as Lamborgini in Automobile. Anyway, I just want to share my thoughts & opinions with you. LIVE HAPPY & GOOD LISTENING!