AudioCircle

Industry Circles => Bryston Limited => Topic started by: werd on 23 Feb 2009, 04:34 pm

Title: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: werd on 23 Feb 2009, 04:34 pm
I was wandering if anyone has come across any reviews on the new 4bsst/2 yet? If so, knowing what publication or the link to it would be appreciated, thanx
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 19 Jun 2009, 04:57 pm
Hi All,

Just got this today from our distributor in Greece.  I have the PDF if anyone speaks Greek.

Dear James,

Please find the attached file with the review of the 4BSST2 (SQ) in HITECH magazine, as it came out today. This is a very good review. Indeed there is not even a word in the entire review that could be held against the 4BSST2. Have a look at the closing statements:

"If this kind of quality sound cost a fortune, it wouldn't be news for anybody, especially in our times. The Canadians, however, are absolutely down to earth and have full consciousness of their mission.

With a price tag of about a fiver (means 5.000) we welcome the 4BSST2 as the ultimate solution of very high power, a solution that honors the sense of transparency and musicality, and at the same time being 100% able to stimulate even the most demanding speaker in the market.

The only thing that is left from our side, is a recommendation - squared!"

 
Kind regards.
Leonidas Plakoutsis
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: danman on 19 Jun 2009, 05:00 pm
Kind words indeed!
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: Mad Mr H on 21 Jun 2009, 11:01 am
Here is another review

4B SST2 BP26 BDC-1 BDA-1

http://bryston.com/reviews/bp26/hifinews_bp264b.pdf

Hi Fi News June 2009.


Andy.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 27 Jun 2009, 11:59 am
I was wandering if anyone has come across any reviews on the new 4bsst/2 yet? If so, knowing what publication or the link to it would be appreciated, thanx

Hi werd,

This arrived this morning:

Congrats to Bryston on a Reviewers' Choice Award on the 4B SST SQ!


Review will be posted on line July 1st 2009 on the 'Soundstage' website.

james

PS- just heard the reviewer wishes to purchase the amp - best of all possible recommendations.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: danman on 27 Jun 2009, 01:06 pm
WOOOHOOOO! :D
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: alexone on 27 Jun 2009, 02:57 pm
man! lots of awards in the last time for the Bryston team. unbelievable.

keep up the good work! :thumb:


al.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 28 Jun 2009, 01:22 am
Good news! What preamp was the Soundstage! reviewer using with the 4B?
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: werd on 29 Jun 2009, 04:43 am
I was wandering if anyone has come across any reviews on the new 4bsst/2 yet? If so, knowing what publication or the link to it would be appreciated, thanx

Hi werd,

This arrived this morning:

Congrats to Bryston on a Reviewers' Choice Award on the 4B SST SQ!


Review will be posted on line July 1st 2009 on the 'Soundstage' website.

james

PS- just heard the reviewer wishes to purchase the amp - best of all possible recommendations.

Hello folks

Congratz, i 've been  waitn for the the awards to start coming in on the 4Bsq. I am goin to look for that issue when it comes out
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: danman on 29 Jun 2009, 12:41 pm
I am sure it will win many more!
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 1 Jul 2009, 11:32 am
Soundstage Review on 4B SST(SQ)

http://www.soundstage.com/equipment/bryston_4b_sst2.htm
"REVIEWERS CHOICE AWARD"

james
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: drummermitchell on 1 Jul 2009, 01:45 pm
 :dance:Great stuff for sure.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: MOZ on 1 Jul 2009, 03:43 pm
Hi all, hi James,

Just got my 4B SST2.
Wonderful, even more delicate than the old 4B ST i was lended.  :thumb:
Much more accurate in bass response and highs are a wonder.

It matches perfectly my Revel Studio 1 and the great 9B SST2 i use for surrounds and center !
I also got a Revel Ultima sub 30, god it's starting to be serious here  :o
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 1 Jul 2009, 05:01 pm
Hi all, hi James,

Just got my 4B SST2.
Wonderful, even more delicate than the old 4B ST i was lended.  :thumb:
Much more accurate in bass response and highs are a wonder.

It matches perfectly my Revel Studio 1 and the great 9B SST2 i use for surrounds and center !
I also got a Revel Ultima sub 30, god it's starting to be serious here  :o

Hi MOZ,

ENJOY!

james
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: rmurray on 1 Jul 2009, 05:29 pm
 :thumb:Just read the Soundstage review on the 4B squared. I'm convinced now to purchase the new version. My st model is fantastic, but like he said; you don't know a problem until it's removed. I still wonder, is there any difference in voicing between the pro and c series models? I like the hardcore professional studio look but I'm getting more attract :drool:ed to the classy engraved panel of the C unit. Happy listening to all......RMURRAY.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: danman on 1 Jul 2009, 05:42 pm
Going from the ST to the SST2 series (never heard the other SST) I can say that I felt and heard almost exactly what was said in the review.

rmurray, you will not regret your purchase! :D
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: rmurray on 1 Jul 2009, 10:18 pm
Thanks for the reply. This sets my decision to make the change. I hope maybe James Tanner can answer the part about any differences between the pro and the C models. RMURRAY. :thumb:
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 1 Jul 2009, 10:33 pm
Thanks for the reply. This sets my decision to make the change. I hope maybe James Tanner can answer the part about any differences between the pro and the C models. RMURRAY. :thumb:

Hi rmurray,

The difference between the Pro and Consumer version (beyond cosmetics) is that the Pro version has Gain (volume) controls in the circuit path of each channel.

I usually recommend the consumer version if you want the simplest circuit path and the Pro mode lif you need the volume adjustment feature.

james
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: rmurray on 3 Jul 2009, 02:12 am
Thanks again James. I recon the C series is the more purist approach consdering the' less is more' in the hi-fi world. (still love that ruggrd studio look though  heh heh ... aa :violin:. RMURRAY.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 5 Jul 2009, 01:09 pm
desirable audio boutique 欲望:音响
the adventure of maggielurva, panzer  

A 300W Brute....Not! - The Bryston 4BSST2 Poweramp
 
Though the Bryston 4BSST2 poweramp put out 300w per channel, it was no brute. In fact I would describe it as civilized.

Lest my descriptions above conjured up an image of softness, slowness, or lack-lustreness, I must assure you that these descriptions did not apply the Bryston at all. In fact, the Bryston was dead neutral, true to the tradition also exhibited by its sibling, the BP26 preamp which I wrote about earlier. The 4BSST2's power allowed it to be totally unfazed by anything and always demonstrated a good grip and control on the proceedings. It was not indifferent nor was it playing things over-excitedly, it just did the stuff it was asked to do.

The 4BSST2 exerted total control on my Egglestonworks The Nine loudspeakers at all listening levels. In my admittedly smallish listening room, I could not get the 4BSST2 to misbehave one bit. The loudspeakers could take the wattage punishment from the 4BSST2, but my ears gave up way earlier, and at this point, my room was literally shaking already.

I think at my highest tolerable listening level, the 4BSST2 was not even breaking a sweat, there was no strain, not one hint of distortion, the sound
continued to be clean and controlled. I felt the amp was just cruising along, gleefully waiting for me to up the volume control some more.

On the other side of the spectrum, playing quieter music, the 'it was no brute' part held true too. I could throw a string quartet (Beethoven String Quartets Op18 No.6 and Op59 No.1 "Razumovsky" Cleveland Quartet; Telarc CD-80229) at it or simple music of a voice and a guitar (Sara K. "Don't I know you from somwehre?" Stockfisch SFR35760555.2), there wasn't any harshness or aggressiveness. Its quality of control, focus, detail, accuracy continued to shine through. The Bryston was equally good at handling the macro and micro things.

I have no complaint about the BP26 preamp and poweramp combo's frequency extension, which was fully extended on the both ends. The slight highlight at the upper mid I experienced on the BP26 preamp before was there. I believe the 4BSST2 also had a bit of its own as this characteristic was also heard when it was partnered with my Pass Labs X2.5. With my Egglestonsworks' silk dome tweeter, this highlight gave a heightened awareness of details. But the flip side of the coin was that, I believe, if one has an unruly tweeter, the Bryston would expose it for what it was too.

See, the Brystons were honest, they don't cover things up for you.

Read Panzer's write up on the Bryston combo for a more in depth analysis, my experience pretty much pull at the same direction.

This combo really took the neutrality, detail, control, accuracy creed to the max!
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: werd on 5 Jul 2009, 04:54 pm
Hello folks

This was taken from above

I have no complaint about the BP26 preamp and poweramp combo's frequency extension, which was fully extended on the both ends. The slight highlight at the upper mid I experienced on the BP26 preamp before was there. I believe the 4BSST2 also had a bit of its own as this characteristic was also heard when it was partnered with my Pass Labs X2.5. With my Egglestonsworks' silk dome tweeter, this highlight gave a heightened awareness of details. But the flip side of the coin was that, I believe, if one has an unruly tweeter, the Bryston would expose it for what it was too.

The part about the unruly tweeter is an indicator that this reviewer hasnt taken cabling seriousily with Bryston. Bryston imo is cabling dependent (much like all other transistor gear). Cable mismatching can result in unruly tweeters. This can make for speaker matching more difficult as many people wont address their expensive cabling as a prob, this includes mains leads.

Sorry i would like to post more about this but i am finding this site very buggy. Cant message,quote or even type since they moved this site. Very difficult site to post on now due to these bugs












I
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 5 Jul 2009, 05:25 pm
Hi werd,


Yes there seems to be a lot of 'jitter' on the site now.

james

Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: 1oldguy on 22 Jul 2009, 03:23 pm
Hi James

Just read the review on the 4B sst that's posted on the home page of the Bryston site.Must say that really does seem promising considering the 4 don't have that new transformer my 7's have. aa
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 24 Jul 2009, 03:27 am
James, hope it's ok to post this.

Panzer's review:

http://desirableaudio.blogspot.com/2009/06/living-with-bryston-4bsst2read-squared.html
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 30 Jul 2009, 01:59 am
bump
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 8 Aug 2009, 01:29 am
Review Of Bryston 4B SST2 C-SERIES

by Kevin Lichterman
Secrets of Home Theater
July 2009
 

COMMING SOON!
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 8 Aug 2009, 01:30 am
SEE ABOVE:

Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 8 Aug 2009, 01:55 am
Nice. Which magazine is this from?
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: drummermitchell on 8 Aug 2009, 02:29 am
secrets I believe.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 8 Aug 2009, 02:34 am
Nice. Which magazine is this from?

Secrets of Home Theater

james
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 8 Aug 2009, 03:36 am
James, I don't see it on there. Has it been published yet?
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 8 Aug 2009, 10:21 am
James, I don't see it on there. Has it been published yet?

Next week.

james
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: Mag on 13 Aug 2009, 04:24 am
A review for the 3B SST 2, first impressions.

The unit finally arrived and after unwinding from work, spent the next 2 1/2 hours setting everything up in my multi-channel configuration.

Originally I was just going to swap out my sst with the 2. Then I said the heck with it just get everything up and running. So this is more a subjective than objective evaluation. Since I changed out amps and speaker arrangement.

After only two rock cd's, I'm confident in how the sst 2 is effecting the sound. Overall I would say there is much more vibe to the music, particularly in the bass spectrum let's say 20 to 30% improvement. This is at about 95 decibels. The plucking of bass guitar being more dicernible.

I didn't detect a change in vocal characteristics from other Bryston amps. The shrillness associated with cd from a set of speakers was gone. This changed the perception of loudness for me slightly and I can up the volume 2 or 3 notches before being too loud.

Yep, this amp takes the sound to a higher level of enjoyment! :D

This is not a change that may take two weeks to adjust to, is totally the Bryston sound, with vibe!
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 13 Aug 2009, 03:07 pm
MEMO - Bryston Customer Feedback
SUBJECT - Bryston 4B SST-2 Amplifier


August 13th 2009

Hi James,

Letter from my customer who just purchased the 4B SST-2
 
Michael
Whitby Audio
 
From: Allen Purdy
Subject: Revelations and other amazing stuff
 
Michael:

"Boy I hate it when you are right! (I can hear you saying - "But, Al I'm pretty well always right!)" but when I switched on the 4BSST-2 yesterday afternoon I was not prepared for the huge improvement (yet again) in sound quality that 100 hours or so of break-in time had delivered.

I continue to be amazed with this amp. Suddenly everything is even more coherent and you are reaching down further into the musical information - even on FM. This Bryston actually sounds terrific with my old McIntosh MR77 (the one that you guys repaired for me a couple of years ago). I have never heard the Mc tuner sound so good. I have moved the Mac into the main system it sounds so good. The difference with CD on the Ikemi and LP's on the P9 is breathtaking.

What a paradigm breaking product this is. I had an opportunity at the weekend to plug it into a friend's system where he was running a lovely ******** power amp. We both preferred the sound of the 4BSST-2 by a wide margin and the performance on his Tannoy Turnberry SE speakers was absolutely ethereal!
 
I had always loved the sound of the old 3BSST -- but this is just another league altogether.

Thanks again for recommending this amp to me!"
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: Mag on 16 Aug 2009, 04:33 am
A review for the 3B SST 2, first impressions.

The unit finally arrived and after unwinding from work, spent the next 2 1/2 hours setting everything up in my multi-channel configuration.

Originally I was just going to swap out my sst with the 2. Then I said the heck with it just get everything up and running. So this is more a subjective than objective evaluation. Since I changed out amps and speaker arrangement.

After only two rock cd's, I'm confident in how the sst 2 is effecting the sound. Overall I would say there is much more vibe to the music, particularly in the bass spectrum let's say 20 to 30% improvement. This is at about 95 decibels. The plucking of bass guitar being more dicernible.

I didn't detect a change in vocal characteristics from other Bryston amps. The shrillness associated with cd from a set of speakers was gone. This changed the perception of loudness for me slightly and I can up the volume 2 or 3 notches before being too loud.

Yep, this amp takes the sound to a higher level of enjoyment! :D

This is not a change that may take two weeks to adjust to, is totally the Bryston sound, with vibe!

I coulldn't be happier with my new 3B SST 2 in multi-channel stereo mode. But I also feel obligated to post that using my Yamaha RX-V1700 as a pre-amp. In 2-channel stereo Pure Direct mode, I find the sound a tad bassy.  My preference then is SST in 2-channel with this av/receiver.

IMO a matching of a pre-amp should be considered when purchasing the SST 2.

Thanks.
Mag
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 17 Aug 2009, 06:37 pm
Hi All,

Another review where the reviewer purchases the sample.

Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/power-amplifiers/673-bryston-4b-sst2-c-series.html

james
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: Mag on 18 Aug 2009, 01:28 pm
Listening to Metemorphesis by Jean Michel Jarre last night, highlighted the incredible resolution of the 3B SST/2 . Listening in multi-channel stereo with Yamaha enhancer, which is similar to Pure Direct 2 channel in resolution for multi-channel. As I mention before, to my ears, my Yamaha can't seemed to resolve the extra bass resolution in Pure Direct of this amp without sounding overly bassy or having too much bass.

Anyway there are a few tracks on Metemorphesus that have this ghostly whisper layered behind the vocals. I have always liked this cd, analog synthesized music, this is the first time however that I could actually discern the ghostly whispers. Coupled with the BCD-1 the music doesn't even hint at coming from a source, it's just there, in the highest resolution I've heard to date.

More to come as I sample multi-channel sacd with the addition of the 3B SST/2.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 14 Oct 2009, 11:32 am
BP26/4B SST2 short Revew:

http://myadbox.com/2009/10/13/bryston-prepower-amplifiers/

james
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 15 Oct 2009, 08:09 pm
Very cool. Short but sweet.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 29 Nov 2009, 02:30 pm
SoundStage! Network Exceptional Value Award -- Bryston


"Hi James,

This email is to inform you of some exciting news!

At CES 2010 we will be presenting Bryston with one of our annual awards:

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=24109)

Exceptional Value: Bryston 4B SST-2 Stereo Amplifier  

This recognizes the very best-value product as reviewed on SoundStage! for the 2009 calendar year.

We need to set a time to present this. If it is acceptable to you, we'd like to do this on Wednesday, January 6. We'll only need about 20 minutes to snap some photos for our CES coverage. Is there a time that will work for you?"

Jeffrey W. Fritz
Editor-in-Chief
The SoundStage! Network
www.soundstagenetwork.com

Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: Robert D on 29 Nov 2009, 03:47 pm
Like I have said over and over again..

Does it get any Better ......

Congrats

Robert
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 2 Dec 2009, 11:01 pm
SoundStage! Network Exceptional Value Award -- Bryston


"Hi James,

This email is to inform you of some exciting news!

At CES 2010 we will be presenting Bryston with one of our annual awards:

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=24109)

Exceptional Value: Bryston 4B SST-2 Stereo Amplifier  

This recognizes the very best-value product as reviewed on SoundStage! for the 2009 calendar year.

We need to set a time to present this. If it is acceptable to you, we'd like to do this on Wednesday, January 6. We'll only need about 20 minutes to snap some photos for our CES coverage. Is there a time that will work for you?"

Jeffrey W. Fritz
Editor-in-Chief
The SoundStage! Network
www.soundstagenetwork.com



Congrats! I fully agree with the "exceptional value" notion.

Speaking of CES, whereabouts will you be exhibiting? and with who?
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 3 Dec 2009, 12:13 am
Hi Dave

Thiel and Magnepan.

james
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 3 Dec 2009, 12:31 am
Oh cool. This is where you'll be, true?

Booth: Venetian Bassano 2601
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 3 Dec 2009, 12:46 am
Oh cool. This is where you'll be, true?

Booth: Venetian Bassano 2601

Yes between there and the Maggie room.

james
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: werd on 3 Dec 2009, 04:25 am
Man i love my 4b so much i just cant fathom selling it, even to get into the 14b. i am getting offers right now that should probably accept but i am refusing just cuz i cant accept selling it.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: danman on 3 Dec 2009, 01:41 pm
I agree werd. The only way I will change is to get the 7BSST2 and nothing less! The 4B is the best amp I have ever used regardless of the price! At least the best I have used with electrostatics!
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 4 Dec 2009, 12:12 am
Oh cool. This is where you'll be, true?

Booth: Venetian Bassano 2601

Yes between there and the Maggie room.

james


Thank you James. See you there!
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 4 Dec 2009, 12:13 am
I agree werd. The only way I will change is to get the 7BSST2 and nothing less! The 4B is the best amp I have ever used regardless of the price! At least the best I have used with electrostatics!

I agree as well. The 7B2 is certainly a "dream amp" to me.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: werd on 5 Dec 2009, 12:13 am
I agree werd. The only way I will change is to get the 7BSST2 and nothing less! The 4B is the best amp I have ever used regardless of the price! At least the best I have used with electrostatics!

I agree as well. The 7B2 is certainly a "dream amp" to me.

I tell you what Vegas, if i win  the jackpot on the lotto 649 this weekend i will buy you those amps, and some nice gutwire power cables and Empirical audio xlr's to boot.  8) thats a big if though
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: danman on 5 Dec 2009, 12:50 am
I agree werd. The only way I will change is to get the 7BSST2 and nothing less! The 4B is the best amp I have ever used regardless of the price! At least the best I have used with electrostatics!

I agree as well. The 7B2 is certainly a "dream amp" to me.

I tell you what Vegas, if i win  the jackpot on the lotto 649 this weekend i will buy you those amps, and some nice gutwire power cables and Empirical audio xlr's to boot.  8) thats a big if though

Hey werd!!! What about me???????????????????
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: alexone on 5 Dec 2009, 03:04 pm
...ok. first Dave then Danman and then me!!!!

thanx in advance , Werd! :thumb:


al.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: werd on 5 Dec 2009, 05:25 pm
Ok , vegas,danman, and alex but that's it. 30k off 29million isnt that bad. But you gotta remember i'm cheap so no more.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: Robert D on 6 Dec 2009, 12:07 am
Man i love my 4b so much i just cant fathom selling it, even to get into the 14b. i am getting offers right now that should probably accept but i am refusing just cuz i cant accept selling it.

Well Said

Robert
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: danman on 6 Dec 2009, 12:46 am
Thanks werd but remember...............we have physical proof of your words so if you do win.................................... ....! :duh:
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 6 Dec 2009, 03:37 am
I agree werd. The only way I will change is to get the 7BSST2 and nothing less! The 4B is the best amp I have ever used regardless of the price! At least the best I have used with electrostatics!

I agree as well. The 7B2 is certainly a "dream amp" to me.

I tell you what Vegas, if i win  the jackpot on the lotto 649 this weekend i will buy you those amps, and some nice gutwire power cables and Empirical audio xlr's to boot.  8) thats a big if though


Very cool. I appreciate it very much.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: alexone on 6 Dec 2009, 10:27 am
Ok , vegas,danman, and alex but that's it. 30k off 29million isnt that bad. But you gotta remember i'm cheap so no more.

allright, allright! :kiss:


al.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 12 Jan 2010, 04:05 am
4B Award ceremony:

http://www.soundstage.com/equipment/bryston_4b_sst2.htm


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=25311)
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: rob80b on 12 Jan 2010, 12:12 pm
4B Award ceremony:

http://www.soundstage.com/equipment/bryston_4b_sst2.htm


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=25311)

That was a good revue James, the only hiccup was the under the hood view which is actually that of the 7B and which I erroneously used in starting another thread here http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=76117.0 .

Robert
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 12 Jan 2010, 01:18 pm
That was a good revue James, the only hiccup was the under the hood view which is actually that of the 7B and which I erroneously used in starting another thread here http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=76117.0 .

Robert

Hi Robert - why did you think it was a 7B?

james
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: rob80b on 12 Jan 2010, 01:37 pm
Hi Robert - why did you think it was a 7B?

james

Hi James,

The photo that was used not the review.
(http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o46/rob80b/Bryston%204BSSTs/200907_bryston_guts.jpg)
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 13 Jan 2010, 12:03 am
4B Award ceremony:

http://www.soundstage.com/equipment/bryston_4b_sst2.htm


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=25311)


Cool! Which day of the show did that happen?
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 13 Jan 2010, 01:22 am
Set up day - Wednesday.

james
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: ian.ameline on 13 Jan 2010, 05:11 am
James, I've seen that photo (or one like it) used in a number of 4B SST2 reviews -- It is clearly a 7B SST2. (one XLR input, 1 transformer wired up to the PS board, One set of 5 way binding posts.)

-- Ian.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 13 Jan 2010, 12:40 pm
Hi Ian,

Yes we give the reviews links to our FTP sight so they can download hi-res files for the review - looks like some of them get it wrong!

The problem is we do not see the review till its finished and online.

james
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 13 Jan 2010, 10:30 pm
Set up day - Wednesday.

james

I see. Well, congratulations!
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 11 Aug 2010, 10:29 am
http://en.audiofanzine.com/monitor-speaker-amplifier/bryston/4B-SST-Pro/user_reviews/r.5232.html
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 11 Aug 2010, 07:51 pm
Nice review. It's puzzling that the writer didn't know any technical aspects since he's a studio engineer I take it?
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 18 Mar 2011, 11:11 am
From: robert jackson
To: James Tanner
Subject: 4B-SST2

Hi James,
 
I took delivery of my new Bryston 4B SST2 and I just wanted to say it's without a doubt the finest piece of audio equipment I've ever owned. It replaced my older 3B SST power amp.
 
A true Bryston audio fan!
 
Thanks again,
Robert Jackson
Houston, Texas
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: hidefguy on 18 Mar 2011, 10:00 pm
I just sold a 4B SST, and currently use a 3B SST (purchased cheap) in my small listening room. Personally, in that room I could'nt hear an audible difference between these two amps. So I sold the more expensive/bigger one to invest the money into an LED TV. I did hear that the 4B SST2 does not sound any different then the older 4B SST, but from what Robert is saying, I guess the differences are beyond subtle (to his ears). If I ever go back up the Bryston chain I will go for the 7B SST2's, and of course I will have a dedicated sound room built for it in my basement, but for now the 3B SST is sufficient for my little 10x10 den/mancave.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 18 Mar 2011, 11:17 pm
I would have kept the 4BSST. More headroom. Just sayin'
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: hidefguy on 19 Mar 2011, 01:47 am
I would have kept the 4BSST. More headroom. Just sayin'

I realized that as well but was able to get $2300 for the 4B SST and paid $1500 locally a couple months ago. I couldn't justify having an amp that's worth more than my whole system, especially in a really small room. I've been experiencing some sellers remorse about it. I feel like I just lost a kid :)
I'm a little new to this game and didn't realize how emotional and attached we can get to this stuff
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: Alpha10 on 19 Mar 2011, 07:54 am
James,

Not sure if this is the right place to ask but it is 4BSST2 related. I have recently recieved my wonderful BDP/BDA combo both biult with blue LEDs, is it possible to have the 4BSST2 made with matching blue LEDs?

Cheers
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: alexone on 19 Mar 2011, 08:46 am
Alpha,

could you post a pic of your BDA-BDP combo, please?

al.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: Alpha10 on 19 Mar 2011, 01:57 pm
Alpha,

could you post a pic of your BDA-BDP combo, please?

al.

Not a great photo but you get the idea, matching cosmetics and blue LEDS:


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=44388)


Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: Anonamemouse on 19 Mar 2011, 04:38 pm
James,

Not sure if this is the right place to ask but it is 4BSST2 related. I have recently recieved my wonderful BDP/BDA combo both biult with blue LEDs, is it possible to have the 4BSST2 made with matching blue LEDs?

Cheers

Oh... I SO wish...
Am thinking about changing them myself.

Not a great photo but you get the idea, matching cosmetics and blue LEDS:

Nice!!! Just a shame they do not live in one box...
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 19 Mar 2011, 05:01 pm
James,

Not sure if this is the right place to ask but it is 4BSST2 related. I have recently recieved my wonderful BDP/BDA combo both biult with blue LEDs, is it possible to have the 4BSST2 made with matching blue LEDs?

Cheers

For you ...anything sir :thumb:

james
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: Anonamemouse on 19 Mar 2011, 05:05 pm
For you ...anything sir :thumb:

james

So it is possible? Could you send me a set?
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: Alpha10 on 19 Mar 2011, 05:17 pm
For you ...anything sir :thumb:

james

Fabulous news, I'll get this pair paid for and be back for one of those  :D

Cheers
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 19 Mar 2011, 05:19 pm
Fabulous news, I'll get this pair paid for and be back for one of those  :D

Cheers

I will try to get you a picture.

James
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 19 Mar 2011, 05:35 pm
So it is possible? Could you send me a set?

Hi 

The blue is a special order and I do not think they can be retrofitted as they have different mounting holes and different drivers and resistor values for the LEDs. I will check.


Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 20 Mar 2011, 01:13 am
I realized that as well but was able to get $2300 for the 4B SST and paid $1500 locally a couple months ago. I couldn't justify having an amp that's worth more than my whole system, especially in a really small room. I've been experiencing some sellers remorse about it. I feel like I just lost a kid :)
I'm a little new to this game and didn't realize how emotional and attached we can get to this stuff


Ok, cool. No worries. Happy listening with your 3B!
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: Anonamemouse on 20 Mar 2011, 02:19 pm
Hi 

The blue is a special order and I do not think they can be retrofitted as they have different mounting holes and different drivers and resistor values for the LEDs. I will check.

Please do!!! My 4B SST2 is the only piece of equipment I own with green LED's, the rest all has blue. Mafico is nearby here (10 minute drive), I can also do it myself if Mafico decides to want an extortionate amount of money in return...
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: Anonamemouse on 24 Mar 2011, 12:45 pm
Hi 

The blue is a special order and I do not think they can be retrofitted as they have different mounting holes and different drivers and resistor values for the LEDs. I will check.

James, did you ever check on this?
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: James Tanner on 24 Mar 2011, 03:39 pm
James, did you ever check on this?

Hi Anonamemouse,

Yes I did and it is not an easy job.  The front panel faceplate has to change - a few resistors on the circuit board and the mounting holes for the new blue LED's.  So definitely a factory issue not to mention shipping costs and parts costs.

james
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: Anonamemouse on 24 Mar 2011, 03:52 pm
Bummer...  :cry:
Not gonna happen then. Shame I did not know this is possible when I ordered it, otherwise... Now it's not worth the money. Maybe when I order my 14 in a couple of years.

Thank you for checking!
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: hidefguy on 31 Mar 2011, 06:06 pm
I would have kept the 4BSST. More headroom. Just sayin'

Well vegasdave. you were right. After selling off my 4B SST I realized that I now need the extra headroom. After changing the configuration to a direct amplifier hook-up from my Oppo BDP95 DAC (balanced outputs) the sound was mesmerizing. The only problem here is that on certain recordings, the 3B SST briefly clips out on on me. I didn't think I would run into this problem unless I got bigger/power hungrier speakers.
I like loud music so I went ahead and re-purchased a used mint 4B SST (17" faceplate) from authorized dealer for $100 more than I sold mine for. The one I sold had no original box/receipt, and had the 19" faceplate with the handles which is a look I don't prefer. I like the flat 17" faceplate and this one includes dealer receipt, and original box, so it all worked out. I need to sell my 3B SST (17" faceplate). I'm wondering if I should post it in the classifieds here before going to Audiogon.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 31 Mar 2011, 07:30 pm
Well vegasdave. you were right. After selling off my 4B SST I realized that I now need the extra headroom. After changing the configuration to a direct amplifier hook-up from my Oppo BDP95 DAC (balanced outputs) the sound was mesmerizing. The only problem here is that on certain recordings, the 3B SST briefly clips out on on me. I didn't think I would run into this problem unless I got bigger/power hungrier speakers.
I like loud music so I went ahead and re-purchased a used mint 4B SST (17" faceplate) from authorized dealer for $100 more than I sold mine for. The one I sold had no original box/receipt, and had the 19" faceplate with the handles which is a look I don't prefer. I like the flat 17" faceplate and this one includes dealer receipt, and original box, so it all worked out. I need to sell my 3B SST (17" faceplate). I'm wondering if I should post it in the classifieds here before going to Audiogon.

No problem. Ok, I thought so. That was a good deal on the 4BSST. You shouldn't have any problems selling the 3BSST. Some audiophiles consider it the best sounding Bryston amp.
Title: 4B SST
Post by: hidefguy on 1 Apr 2011, 09:54 pm
Appreciate the advice Dave. In the future, I will never purchase a solid state amplifier without the capability of handling at least 2X the speakers power handling specs, and of course I will never purchase a solid state amplifier without the name Bryston on it  :wink:
I really believe that you get what you pay for up to the point of diminishing returns, and Bryston gear seems to hover right around that point. I still get those people who tell me I pay too much per watt, but that's expected working around technicians such as myself. In the end it's the experience that counts, and mine have been very pleasant, and worth every penny. I'll take the audio stuff over a new car anyday :)
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 1 Apr 2011, 10:31 pm
You're welcome! Sounds good, and I agree with the rest! Forget cars, they're too much hassle! All you need is something with decent horsepower and is built well. I'm content with my Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor...it's a nice solid car with good horsepower, and is built very well.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: werd on 1 Apr 2011, 10:38 pm
You're welcome! Sounds good, and I agree with the rest! Forget cars, they're too much hassle! All you need is something with decent horsepower and is built well. I'm content with my Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor...it's a nice solid car with good horsepower, and is built very well.

Yah  :thumb:
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 2 Apr 2011, 12:05 am
Yah  :thumb:

 8)
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: hidefguy on 5 Apr 2011, 08:36 am
Got the beast today. A real beauty. Still looks new, and runs slightly louder than my 3B SST. I expect this is normal since the internal 4B SST components are bigger. This one is staying for at least 5 years :)
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: werd on 5 Apr 2011, 01:42 pm
8)

don't forget about the heater hidden under the seat.
Title: Re: 4bsst/2 reviews
Post by: vegasdave on 6 Apr 2011, 07:59 pm
Got the beast today. A real beauty. Still looks new, and runs slightly louder than my 3B SST. I expect this is normal since the internal 4B SST components are bigger. This one is staying for at least 5 years :)


Cool! Congrats and enjoy...