BRYSTON 4B-ST ...BRYSTON 3B-SST....or McCormack ,Classe ,Belles

larry777

I am still considering a 2 channel amp for my stereo listening using a Sansui Au-717 as a Pre at least to start. My current speakers are Energy RC-70's rated up to 250 watts per channel ,with an efficiency rating of 95db. I do have Bryston 4B-st (250 watts) and 3B-sst (150 watts) on my short list with the 3B-sst running aprox $500 more than the 4B-st. You would think that the 3B-sst would sound better as it should be more refined ( watts aside ) but I don't know this for sure. Can anyone comment on this, and would the extra money be well spent considering less power ?

In addition I also see these other amps for sale ( McCormack DNA-1 including Delux and a number of Classe and Belles amps ) in the 150 watt to 200 watt range also at similar prices or less to the Bryston Amps. So how would these other amps stack up for sound quality and Bang for the Buck ?

I know this is general as everyone may hear different. So lets say you were doing this for your own system......so what kind of thoughts would you have going into it ?............. Lets pick a room size of 16 x 24 for your gear and set up.

tonyb

Generally speaking, those are all rock solid choices. If it was me though, I would lean towards the Belles or McCormick, both very musical amps. Haven't had an ear on any of Brystons newer stuff so can't comment there.

F1nut

Two more to consider,

http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstran&1324770245&/Musical-Fidelity-A308cr-Power-

http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstran&1324410517&/Musical-Fidelity-M6PRX-

larry777

Thanks for the comments. Those Musical Fidelity Amps look great also and thats why its so hard to come up with a short list. Any comments on the Bryston 4B-ST and 3B-SST as per my original post ? Tell it like you see it, as this is the place for me to learn. If you don't like something on the list please say so and tell me why. I can't hear all these different amps so I am just trying to get an overall feel for some of these models from those who may have listened to them. I thought more feedback would come in, so tell me what you think,ok.

F1nut

Any comments on the Bryston 4B-ST and 3B-SST as per my original post ?

I found the ST's too dry/clinical for my tastes. The SST's are a bit better, but still not my cup of tea.

reeltrouble1

http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstran&1324857571&/Balanced-Audio-Bat-VK-200-

Refined power in a true differential circuit...any reason your not including them as you look? Known for incorporating refined musical muscle along with very solid technologies into their products, excellent reputation for great service.

RT1

larry777

Yes, their is a reason I didn't include this one while I look. " I didn't know it even existed " but it does look good I must say, for 100 watts per channel. I bet the design on this one means something, with that much weight per watts output. Thats why I am still searching to learn what I can before buying anything. Its a hard way to come up with a short list.....especially since it keeps getting longer as I find out about all the different amps out there. But the more comments I get the better.....so keep them comming.

unc2701

If you've got a warm pre, the extra overhead of the 4B would probably benefit you more that the difference between the ST and SST. But my general approach has always been a very clean/clinical amp, then mess with the pre and sources to get the sound I want.

You should also check the exact manufacture date of the 3B- they slightly changed their no-questions 20 year warranty. Post-Feb 2006 you need a bill of sale from a approved dealer. Pre-2006 you just need a box.

falconcry72

unc2701 wrote: »

If you've got a warm pre, the extra overhead of the 4B would probably benefit you more that the difference between the ST and SST. But my general approach has always been a very clean/clinical amp, then mess with the pre and sources to get the sound I want.

You should also check the exact manufacture date of the 3B- they slightly changed their no-questions 20 year warranty. Post-Feb 2006 you need a bill of sale from a approved dealer. Pre-2006 you just need a box.

The 4BSST will most likely be my next amp, but not for a little while. :cool::biggrin: