AudioCircle
Industry Circles => Bryston Limited => Topic started by: James Tanner on 6 Mar 2011, 04:28 pm
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Reviews on BDP-1 DIGITAL PLAYER
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http://www.blu-raydefinition.com/hardware/bryston-bdp-1-digital-player-review.html
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http://www.cepro.com/article/gap_between_analog_digital_audio_narrows/
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Hi Folks
Measurements on the BDP-1 Digital Player plus BDA-1 DAC by Paul Miller in a recent review in the UK.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=43968)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=43969)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=43970)
james
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Hi-Fi Choice review (page2); the reviewer didn't like the partnering BDA-1 as much, though.
http://www.techradar.com/reviews/audio-visual/hi-fi-and-audio/audio-systems/bryston-bdp-1-929064/review?artc_pg=2
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Hi-Fi Choice review (page2); the reviewer didn't like the partnering BDA-1 as much, though.
http://www.techradar.com/reviews/audio-visual/hi-fi-and-audio/audio-systems/bryston-bdp-1-929064/review?artc_pg=2
He's WRONG! :D
The numbers don't lie :thumb:
james
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Hi-Fi Choice review (page2); the reviewer didn't like the partnering BDA-1 as much, though.
http://www.techradar.com/reviews/audio-visual/hi-fi-and-audio/audio-systems/bryston-bdp-1-929064/review?artc_pg=2
I was very into streaming audio but its too difficult to execute (with me anyways). I was quite prepared to do it before the bdp. (That Naim btw i priced and it was like $5500 bucks here and might have been more).
If i'm going to stream audio i was much pretty much headed into the Offramps from Steve N. Those are great products too but its still streaming. These devices want to be right next to the dac, so that means your computer or laptop has to be within the 7 meter length of usb.
The Naim for eg. i couldve used right next to my computer and run xlr to my preamp. Every one talks about how cheap cable is (you ever price 15mtrs of balanced cable especially stuff i like). We are talking at least a 1000 bucks for that connect. i know it can be cheaper but i have heard xlr at studio grade (homemade) and it wasnt that good... (well it was ok, nothing good or bad). This is troublesome since i wouldve had to either move my computer or use my laptop. Now using a laptop sounds nice and easy but is it?
It would have to be in battery mode (everytime i plugged in i could hear the powersupply show up in my tweeters... we are talking glare). Ribbon tweeters... you can hear everything. . And these laptops are not infinite in storage size. They are also subject to lag and every other fricken issue that can come your way by operating a system on the internet. (it would have to be a dedicated laptop) for convenience and battery for noise. More money and the so - called convenience of streaming is gone imo when compared to the bdp.
The bdp uses a $5 buck ethernet cable for commands. The price of usb sticks can be pricey but they can be re-used. It just made to much sense over streaming.
Oddly when i heard the bdp1 with that omega HDD (lousy). It sold me on the bdp. It demonstrated how bad a computer can muck things up. The usb stick was the starting gate in the bdp1 and it became clear sonically how to do this.
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Yes, I should think so, James. Is the order of the new BDA-1's (with new buttons) to Thailand on it's way? My BDP-1 is lonely on the rack. :|
BTW, is this the same guy who didn't review the BCD-1 very well?
He's WRONG! :D
The numbers don't lie :thumb:
james
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Yes, I should think so, James. Is the order of the new BDA-1's (with new buttons) to Thailand on it's way? My BDP-1 is lonely on the rack. :|
BTW, is this the same guy who didn't review the BCD-1 very well?
Hi Klao,
I believe it is on its way - can you check with the dealer and let me know please.
james
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I would love to see Bryston build a new upscale dac( besides their current offering) with current chips( like the AKM 4399) and overkill power supplies etc.I personally think Bryston is missing a market by not doing so.Then again perhaps it is a market Bryston doesn't have any interest in.
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I would love to see Bryston build a new upscale dac( besides their current offering) with current chips( like the AKM 4399) and overkill power supplies etc.I personally think Bryston is missing a market by not doing so.Then again perhaps it is a market Bryston doesn't have any interest in.
I don`t know about the chips but i am pretty sure the power supplies are world class.
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I would love to see Bryston build a new upscale dac( besides their current offering) with current chips( like the AKM 4399) and overkill power supplies etc.I personally think Bryston is missing a market by not doing so.Then again perhaps it is a market Bryston doesn't have any interest in.
We are always playing with the new chips and devices as they come on to the market but especially in digital we have found that the differences between different DAC's and different sample and bit rates etc. do not provide as much of a performance advantage as paying strict attention to independent power supplies for digital and analog sections, independent ground planes, dedicated transformer coupled inputs, discrete analog output stages, extremely low noise floors etc.
The main aspect I loved about the recent review in HI-News n our BDP-1 Player (see above) and BDA-1 DAC was the measurements by Paul Miller showing what is considered older technology performing at a superb state of the art level. :thumb:
That's not to say you don't keep investigating for better performance it just means you have to be careful you do not get caught up in 'specmanship'
james
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Well, numbers are nice BUT obviously don't tell the whole story.Compare several highly regarded dacs/cd players that measure like state of the art( with robust power supplies etc etc) and they will usually sound a little different even though according to the numbers they all should sound identical.If they all sounded the same we would all by the cheapest one with good specs.
I am merely stating my opinion as a consumer of highend audio gear.Incidently, in the sub $3000 range I think Bryston has the best cd player( imo) but if your willing to spend more I have heard better( again imo). I have also heard some very expensive ones that didn't sound anywhere near their price tag.
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Well, numbers are nice BUT obviously don't tell the whole story.Compare several highly regarded dacs/cd players that measure like state of the art( with robust power supplies etc etc) and they will usually sound a little different even though according to the numbers they all should sound identical.If they all sounded the same we would all by the cheapest one with good specs.
I am merely stating my opinion as a consumer of highend audio gear.Incidently, in the sub $3000 range I think Bryston has the best cd player( imo) but if your willing to spend more I have heard better( again imo). I have also heard some very expensive ones that didn't sound anywhere near their price tag.
Agreed :D
james
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Hi Folks,
Was just informed today that the BDP-1 will be reviewed in the June 2011 issue of Stereophile. :D
Apparently the BDP-1 will also be featured on the front cover :thumb:
james
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:D Should be a great review if they are featuring it on the cover. :thumb:
Tony
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James,
Just bought the BDP-1 (this year's b-day gift to myself) and connected it to the BDA-1 (last year's b-day gift)..Wow!
The improvement in detail and sound-stage depth are on par with a $20K + speaker upgrade
Andrew Netschay
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Hi-Fi Choice review (page2); the reviewer didn't like the partnering BDA-1 as much, though.
http://www.techradar.com/reviews/audio-visual/hi-fi-and-audio/audio-systems/bryston-bdp-1-929064/review?artc_pg=2
Hi folks
You know what, i was looking at this review from tech radar
Late in the day another tasty DAC turned up in the form of the Antelope Zodiac + and this proved to be rather more revealing than the Bryston – now we could hear right into the mix and enjoy nuances that have rarely been encountered previously. Essentially it showed that the BDP-1 is a more capable device than its partnering DAC suggests. Its reviews like this that make wonder how much these reviewers really understand what they are hearing. .
No mention of Prat by this guy that i can see. The bdp and bda are Prat warriors. I will take good prat over resolution in a front end any day. It just so happens that any dac that does prat well usually will have good resolution too. He doesn't seem to care about prat but only makes mention of resolution. Very often in digital prat is reduced for resolution - thats a big fail. Prat is where it's at and makes you listen -not resolution.
I can actually see where this is headed now with the hi rez. There are going to be a lot of interest paid to production of hi rez players coming out. All of them are going to talk about how great their resolution is but the money is in prat. They are going to give you a player that gives you great resolution _ and we will hear about it - but its going to have no rhythm - won't hear about that.... :lol:
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From: Hart, Michael
Sent: April-01-11 1:22 AM
To: 'jamestanner@bryston.com'
Subject: Re: BDP-1
Hi James,
Compared to the BDP/BDA, the Classe CDP202 reminded me of how the 202 sounded when I used single ended cables and stock power supply. When I switched to the Chord XLR cables, Shunyata V-Ray II power supply and Shunyata power cords, the Classe came alive.
But now, compared to the Bryston combo, the Classe sounds like it did before the cable/power upgrades. It's like the cable/power improvements took the music half way there.
The Bryston combo finished the journey. Well done!
Michael S. Hart
Partner
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(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=44974)
James, I had to put in my 2 Cents :thumb:
Enjoy
Robert
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From: Kishan.Singh
Sent: April 4, 2011 10:57 AM
To: James Tanner
Subject: RE: BDP-1
Hi James
Just a quick email to let you know that I have received my BDP1- unit number 296.
I have also upgraded my speakers to the B&W 804's.
So the audio coming through now is something literally incomprehensible.
I have also purchased the Ipad and am enjoying the seamless user interface with the unit through Bryston's onboard software, very snazzy, and impressive.
I have really spent some good money, but the audio detail has been rewarding, unbelievable!!!
I now need to get some flac files and will be doing downloading soon. Please recommend some listening material, like Daves True Story, Aint no sunshine, isnt she lovely, etc ....
I will then begin the review as discussed.
Thank you so much for your guidance.....
Please keep in touch ....
Kind regards
Kishan
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Saw this, but I didn't download the magazine; GBP 12.50 for a single issue is too expensive for me. :(
http://www.hificritic.com/downloads/HIFICRITIC21.pdf
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Saw this, but I didn't download the magazine; GBP 12.50 for a single issue is too expensive for me. :(
http://www.hificritic.com/downloads/HIFICRITIC21.pdf
Hi klao,
I have some pieces of the review - these are the measurments and conclusion on the BDA-1. The BDP-1 in combination with the BDA-1 is due up next I believe.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=45422)
james
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Good article in the May/June issue of Absolute Sound Magazine (page 52-60) dealing with the comparisons of 8 different sound cards. It appears the reviewer agrees with our choice of the ESI Julia@ card in the BDP-1.
james
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From: Emorante
Sent: April-16-11 2:48 AM
To: James Tanner
Subject: Re: Review on BDP-1
Hello James
Congratulations for Bryston BDP-1 Digital Player :thumb:
Audioreview.it in italy has a superb review coming out next month.
http://www.audioreview.it/images/stories/0_nuovo_sito/questo_mese/sommario.pdf
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HI Folks,
Got my copy of the June 2011 issue of Stereophile and the Bryston BDP-1 Digital Player is featured on the front cover and a 9 page (74-83) review inside :thumb:
james
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HI Folks,
Got my copy of the June 2011 issue of Stereophile and the Bryston BDP-1 Digital Player is featured on the front cover and a 9 page (74-83) review inside :thumb:
james
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150184900539198&set=a.152581459197.113494.115084599197&type=1&theater
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That's very cool - congrats James :thumb:
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HI Folks,
Got my copy of the June 2011 issue of Stereophile and the Bryston BDP-1 Digital Player is featured on the front cover and a 9 page (74-83) review inside :thumb:
james
James
Very smart front cover congratulations, Stereophile is almost impossible to find over here in the UK, I take it the review was very positive for you?
Cheers
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I agree especially with Borders going bust.
I get mine by subscription.
They do good deals on the 1st two years.
Quality of writing is so much better than the UK comics.
One UK review of the Bryston BDP-1 tried to compare the BNC and XLR outputs but the guy used cables from different companies with quite different characterists.
As our US cousins would say, doh!
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James
Very smart front cover congratulations, Stereophile is almost impossible to find over here in the UK, I take it the review was very positive for you?
Cheers
I will have a PDF of the complete review in a week or so I can send you.
Yes the review was very good. The thing I liked about the review is the reviewer loved the sound (by the way the reviewer purchased the BDP-1 and the BDA-1) and the measurements by John Atkinson were state of the art and some fell below the Miller analysers threshold for jitter :thumb:
Also I recieved a very nice note from the reviewer saying ''thank-you for the digital education" I provided him and that he felt I was a very good teacher - so now I can die happy! :lol:
james
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I will have a PDF of the complete review in a week or so I can send you.
Yes the review was very good. The thing I liked about the review is the reviewer loved the sound (by the way the reviewer purchased the BDP-1 and the BDA-1) and the measurements by John Atkinson were state of the art and some fell below the Miller analysers threshold for jitter :thumb:
Also I recieved a very nice note from the reviewer saying ''thank-you for the digital education" I provided him and that he felt I was a very good teacher - so now I can die happy! :lol:
Wow, you must have thought it was Christmas :D many congratulations again, but hey, I am listening to how good the BDP/BDA pair are right now, so no surprise really..
james
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Hi Folks,
I have the PDF of the Stereophile review on the BDP-1. It is 5M.
Email me at Bryston if you want a copy. jamestanner@bryston.com
james
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John Atkinson did the review?Very good.....i am interested........although it would have been VERY,VERY interesting if Mickey did the review LOL............James will Bryston start advertising in Stereophile once again?
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John Atkinson did the review?Very good.....i am interested........although it would have been VERY,VERY interesting if Mickey did the review LOL............James will Bryston start advertising in Stereophile once again?
It was Larry Greenhill that did the review. John just listened to it as well and did the measurements. Not sure on the AD issue as that is our advertising agencies realm.
James
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Hi Folks,
There are two more excellent reviews coming from major US magazines on the BDP-1 player and BDA-1 DAC combo.
I recieved this today from one of the reviewers:
James,
I have completed the listening tests (over the past several weeks), and got Chris Rice to help me yesterday with setting up my iPad to browse albums and play music wirelessly through my home network. All went perfectly, and this morning I ran the bench tests using the BDP-1 with the Bryston DAC that you included. So now it is a matter of writing up the review.
I really don’t know how you guys are always able to keep distortion so low in your products (averaging about 0.003% in my tests).
j
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http://www.whathifi.com/review/bryston-bdp-1
james
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I suspect their rating is one star short of full 5 because of "Against: No streaming; no DAC; no storage". Good write-up on sonics.
http://www.whathifi.com/review/bryston-bdp-1
james
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I suspect their rating is one star short of full 5 because of "Against: No streaming; no DAC; no storage". Good write-up on sonics.
Hi Kloa,
Yes they told me that and I said I am going to include in our British literature now a new category called "foot tapping factor percentage" :thumb:
james
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Hi Kloa,
Yes they told me that and I said I am going to include in our British literature now a new category called "foot tapping factor percentage" :thumb:
james
Don't paint us with all with that Linn/Naim indoctrination!
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Don't paint us with all with that Linn/Naim indoctrination!
My apology sir.
james
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MEMO – Newport Audio Show Feedback
SUBJECT – Bryston BDP-1 Digital Player
June, 2011
Hi folks
Please find attached a quote from a reviewer Andre Marc of AV REV Magazine regarding the Bryston BDP-1 Digital Player at the recent Newport Audio Show in California in the YG Acoustics demo room.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=47655)
“I heard the Bryston BDP-1 in Newport. It was the BEST sound at the show with in the YG Acoustics room with Tenor electronics. They were playing back a 24/96 vinyl rip. I was blown away.
The build quality of the BDP-1 is tremendous.”
Andre Marc, AV REV.com
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Hi Folks,
Was informed today and got a copy of the BDP-1 review which will appear in the September isssue of Absolute Sound Magazine.
james
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http://www.stereophile.com/content/bryston-bdp-1-digital-audio-player
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http://www.stereophile.com/content/bryston-bdp-1-digital-audio-player
Its always great when the test measurements reinforce the listening experience aye :thumb:
james
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Hi Folks,
Was informed today and got a copy of the BDP-1 review which will appear in the September isssue of Absolute Sound Magazine.
james
Hi James. Do you have a link to this review like you sent for the Stereophile review?
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Hi James. Do you have a link to this review like you sent for the Stereophile review?
Hi,
No I just have a copy for proof reading the technical stuff.
I will have a PDF once the review is in print.
james
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Hi,
No I just have a copy for proof reading the technical stuff.
I will have a PDF once the review is in print.
james
Is this normal in the trade?
They're giving you an opportunity to modify and update their review on Bryston product before they publish?
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Is this normal in the trade?
They're giving you an opportunity to modify and update their review on Bryston product before they publish?
Hi Terry - they send you a copy and you are only allowed to comment on the technical stuff or offer a Manufacturers comment. They will not let you speak with nor influence any reviewer or change the opinions expressed in any way.
james
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Hi Folks,
Just got a 17 page review of the BDA-1 and BDP-1 which will appear on-line June 30th from 'Secrets Of Home Theater'. There are some extensive measurements made on the unit but the one comment is worthy of note -
"The jitter spectrum below indicates an average of about 5-8 pico-seconds"
james
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Hi Folks,
Just got a 17 page review of the BDA-1 and BDP-1 which will appear on-line June 30th from 'Secrets Of Home Theater'. There are some extensive measurements made on the unit but the one comment is worthy of note -
"The jitter spectrum below indicates an average of about 5-8 pico-seconds"
james
Referring to the jitter level of the BDP-1 or the BDA-1?
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Referring to the jitter level of the BDP-1 or the BDA-1?
BDP :thumb:
James
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BDP :thumb:
James
James,
I really think you are ahead of your times with this product and you've hit a home run.
It's taken a while for me to get used to this type of product (I own a touch - streamer), but the more I look at the BDP-1 the more I like it's concept.
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James,
I really think you are ahead of your times with this product and you've hit a home run.
It's taken a while for me to get used to this type of product (I own a touch - streamer), but the more I look at the BDP-1 the more I like it's concept.
I have been waiting for years for something like this, just a high end streamer with no dac built in. I largely blame the iPod mentality for the distraction away from streaming music off of a centralized server and the internet which many were already doing before the iPod.
I bought a Turtle Beach Audiotron in 2001 which is basically a network streamer. It's a standard 1u/17" wide device with a 2x40 display. It will play files from a windows network share and again from the internet but it is limited in many ways, it will only play wav, mp3 and windows media stuff, not protected. The spdif also will only do 32k and 44.1k but the built in sound will encompass stuff like 22khz and play it out the analog ports. It'll play 48k streams but the sound is slow, like playing a 45rpm record at 33 speed.
Back then (ten years ago) we hounded TB about FLAC support and ogg etc but they made an excuse that the device didn't have the power to decode. I suspect the fact that it was CE powered that they probably could not incorporate the Codecs. There was a workaround though if you were running a Samba server in Linux and that was using perl scripts to convert to wav on the fly and flac files were seen as wavs by the Audiotron. In 2004 TB discontinued the device and later on discontinued Turtle Radio. We learned of a secret password to set the Audiotron to look for an xml file in a windows share or in my case Samba. I have an Excel tool that allows editing this xml file. I still use this as well as a Squeeze Touch. The Audiotron will not play aac streams so for stuff like DI.fm's premium and Jazzradio, I simply use the higher rate mp3 streams. I believe the device actually predated 2001 as one of the major PC OEM's had it and then sold it to TB.
All this time the closest thing was Squeezebox but it required a special server which was more difficult to set up on some Linux distros than it is now and the idea of running a windows based music server sickened me. There were also a plethora of media players with built in hard drives which I also thought were the wrong approach. Also as I lamented many times, we saw iPod docking stations and more docking stations. It was difficult to find any Audio news without seeing yet more iPod docking stations and they still keep coming. Enough already! I never liked the ipod and it's codec support. It's useless to me. Put a tube output or eny exotica you can throw at it and it is still centered on an iPod and it doesn't get any better. I blame the HiFi manufacturers for getting caught up in this dead ended nonsense. When I walk into my home, the music should just be there on my server and ready to play on real audio equipment at the push of a button. I shouldn't have to pull my phone or music player device out of my pocket and plug it in first.
I do have a squeezebox touch which works well but I don't really know what to do with it. It looks a bit out of place in my stereo system and I usually use the remote anyway. What I really wanted was something like the transporter without the built in DAC. I see no point in building a DAC into something when you will bypass it soon anyway when a better DAC comes along. When I saw the BDP-1 and what it was made of, I got pretty excited. I'm very familiar with the hardware inside, especially the modified ESI Juli@. Yes, just give us a bit perfect output and we'll do the rest. Now where to buy one? I'm in Everett, Wa.
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"Now where to buy one? I'm in Everett, Wa."
*********
I had the same question; with no local Bryston dealer available. Ordered on line from AudioAdvisor and the BDA/P combination arrived in a few days. Very happy with it.
Steve
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Hi Folks,
The review of the BDP-1 in Secrets of Home Theater.
It is nice to see the measurements support the listening experience :thumb: :thumb:
http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/media-servers-products-menu-column2-44/1337-bryston-bdp-1-music-server-and-bda-1-dac.html
james
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James,
Congrats on another positive review of the BDP-1! I am finding it odd that some of the reviewers don't give audio quality more focus in their write-ups.
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James,
Congrats on another positive review of the BDP-1! I am finding it odd that some of the reviewers don't give audio quality more focus in their write-ups.
Hi,
A lot will depend on the reviewer and the magazine. For instance the review coming next month in Absolute Sound is nothing but about sound and his comparisons.
The thing I like about the Secrets review is it truly reinforces that all the great press we have been getting about the sound of the BDP-1 Digital Player from customers as well as reviewers is born out with the state of the art measurements - which for some matter more :thumb:
james
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Another good review, congratulation. It must be the engineer in me that likes seeing all the measurements :duh:
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FIVE STARS:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=48343)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=48344)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=48345)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=48346)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=48347)
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Hi Folks,
Another review and FRONT COVER :thumb: - getting the high lights in English :thumb:
FIVE STARS
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=48348)
james
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Any chance to corect the sequence reading in Bryston Max,James?This is imperative with opera files.
thanks
(http://)
Hi Folks,
Another review and FRONT COVER :thumb: - getting the high lights in English :thumb:
FIVE STARS
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=48348)
james
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You need to show us the metadata, buddy, to give us a clue as to what's going wrong
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Any chance to corect the sequence reading in Bryston Max,James?This is imperative with opera files.
thanks
(http://)
Hi MPV - here is a shot from my windows 7 laptop with the same music on the new software.
james
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=48377)
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Hi James,
Can not really see on your shot, but MPV seems to have the same problem as I reported earlier. Your telling us that's solved now with the new software? That would be ever so great!
Please let us know when and where to get the new software?
Thanks,
Marius
Hi MPV - here is a shot from my windows 7 laptop with the same music on the new software.
james
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=48377)
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Yes it is hard to see but it seems OK with the file I was sent. The new software is a least 2 months out.
James
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Hmmm,
so I have the latest software, and still have exactly the same problem as MPV has/had.
Hope you keep working on that then....
Marius
Yes it is hard to see but it seems OK with the file I was sent. The new software is a least 2 months out.
James
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Hi MPV - here is a shot from my windows 7 laptop with the same music on the new software.
james
I'm using a macbook with chrome and safari.Latest updates as well.I download from hdtracks and move the files on my drive.This is not a new problem.Was in the past and still here with classical and opera music.
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Hi MPV - here is a shot from my windows 7 laptop with the same music on the new software.
james
I'm using a macbook with chrome and safari.Latest updates as well.I download from hdtracks and move the files on my drive.This is not a new problem.Was in the past and still here with classical and opera music.
Hi MPV
Ok I will try it on my MAC as well using Safari
James
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When an album comes in 2 discs,I usually re-tagged files #.First disc 101,102,etc and second disc 201,202 and combine all into a single file.But with some albums live Traviata it simply don't work.I split again into 2 files (disc1 and disc2) and now the sequence is ok.
(http://)
(http://)
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Yes that is one option but I think the software we are working on now should be better :thumb:
James
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Hi mpv - here is MAX with Safari on the software we are working on - looks OK
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=48385)
james
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HI James,
You reckon it will solve my problem withe the USB Chandos discs? Looks promising!
Marius
Hi mpv - here is MAX with Safari on the software we are working on - looks OK
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=48385)
james
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Hi Folks,
Do not know if you know who Bascom King is but he is a very well respected engineer, electronics designer and reviewer for decades. He requested a BDP-1 for review purposes and forward me this yesterday:
“Hi James:
I thought I would give you an update on my continued experience with the BDP-1. As you know, I turned in the review to TAV a few weeks ago and I have continued to enjoy its use in my system
I also took the BDP-1 to a friends system and the BDP-1 through a Wyred4Sound DAC-2 modified to drive this special tube output stage into his very high resolution system and the BDP-1 sounded materially better than the previously very high level of musicality that this system has with the Modwright modified Sony NS9100ES player playing high resolution Digital Audio Discs made from various hi-rez files"
Bascom King
P.S. – Bascom purchased the BDP-1 for his own system
-
Hi Folks,
Do not know if you know who Bascom King is but he is a very well respected engineer, electronics designer and reviewer for decades. He requested a BDP-1 for review purposes and forward me this yesterday:
“Hi James:
I thought I would give you an update on my continued experience with the BDP-1. As you know, I turned in the review to TAV a few weeks ago and I have continued to enjoy its use in my system
I also took the BDP-1 to a friends system and the BDP-1 through a Wyred4Sound DAC-2 modified to drive this special tube output stage into his very high resolution system and the BDP-1 sounded materially better than the previously very high level of musicality that this system has with the Modwright modified Sony NS9100ES player playing high resolution Digital Audio Discs made from various hi-rez files"
Bascom King
P.S. – Bascom purchased the BDP-1 for his own system
What is TAV?
Thanks.
Mike
-
The Audiofile Voice - Editor Gene Pitts.
james
-
James,
New BDP-1 review posted last night on Positive Feedback.
The way the article was written, made me think that setting up files for the BDP-1 is kind of complicated? I thought you could just copy flac files from your computer to a thumb drive and play them via the front panel or a handheld device? I am referring to the beginning where it talks about how the files have to be set up to work.
-
James,
New BDP-1 review posted last night on Positive Feedback.
The way the article was written, made me think that setting up files for the BDP-1 is kind of complicated? I thought you could just copy flac files from your computer to a thumb drive and play them via the front panel or a handheld device? I am referring to the beginning where it talks about how the files have to be set up to work.
Hi,
I just read it and I am not sure other than he may mean different programs accept information differently but I have never had any issues when accessing files on many different interfaces?
james
-
New Review on BDP-1 from Positive Feedback.
http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue56/bryston.htm
james
-
New Review on BDP-1 from Positive Feedback.
http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue56/bryston.htm
james
Congratulations, the main thing is he obviously loved the SQ, as do we all. I do think he made hard work of the file handling though, he made it sound far worse than it really is! Also Mpod is such a simple interface and so user friendly, it all sounded a little picky to me, as if he felt he had to justify his pay cheque...
Cheers
-
My own 2 cents, I thought it was a good review. I did not get that there was trouble loading files, although he did go into details, but did say it was simple, twice.
I think a very good review would have been a much better review if he would have talked a little bit more about other software interfaces available for running the BDP-1. James did an excellent post listing them. It is my opinion that people will run into the brick wall of acceptence if they don't know what software options are available to them to run the device with.
One think I loved about the touch was that it had an interface built in to the device which made it incredibly easy to work it. However, the audio was no where near the BDP-1 and in the end my choice was for better audio and was willing to struggle through finding software that worked.
But like anything else, it's a work in progress and so far for me the BDP-1 has been what I needed to take my rig to the next level.
-
This is what I was referring to (the bold below): Maybe I am reading too much into it. I just thought you copy files over to the thumb drive.
It is true that you have to organize your music files in a certain way on a FAT32 or NTFS-formatted volume (i.e., a thumb/flash drive, a magnetic hard drive, a solid state drive, anything that uses a USB connection); but that's all right, because it's really easy to do. It goes something like this:
1. Drive
2. Main Music Directory/Folder
a. Artist
b. Album
c. Song (s)
d. Cover Art
…and repeat until you've added as many artists, albums, and songs as you like.
-
Hi-Fi Critic review
It seems the reviewer who gave such a bad write-up for the BDP-1 designs CD players for Naim Audio.
He didn't mention this conflict of interests in his review!
You may be interested in this thread, especially post 87:
www.pinkfishmedia.net/forum/showthread.php?t=54140&page=6 (http://www.pinkfishmedia.net/forum/showthread.php?t=54140&page=6)
-
This is what I was referring to (the bold below): Maybe I am reading too much into it. I just thought you copy files over to the thumb drive.
It is true that you have to organize your music files in a certain way on a FAT32 or NTFS-formatted volume (i.e., a thumb/flash drive, a magnetic hard drive, a solid state drive, anything that uses a USB connection); but that's all right, because it's really easy to do. It goes something like this:
1. Drive
2. Main Music Directory/Folder
a. Artist
b. Album
c. Song (s)
d. Cover Art
…and repeat until you've added as many artists, albums, and songs as you like.
Yes seems a little excessive - I just copy the files from whatever program on to the thumbdrive or harddrive and all is fine including CD rips.
I think maybe because he was using iTunes as his reference things where different than he expected???
james
-
Thanks James,
Doesn't douse my desire to have a BDP-1 and this is a a very glowing review!
Bill
-
This is what I was referring to (the bold below): Maybe I am reading too much into it. I just thought you copy files over to the thumb drive.
It is true that you have to organize your music files in a certain way on a FAT32 or NTFS-formatted volume (i.e., a thumb/flash drive, a magnetic hard drive, a solid state drive, anything that uses a USB connection); but that's all right, because it's really easy to do. It goes something like this:
1. Drive
2. Main Music Directory/Folder
a. Artist
b. Album
c. Song (s)
d. Cover Art
…and repeat until you've added as many artists, albums, and songs as you like.
This appears to be complicated but in practice it just happens. If you use a CD ripper such as dbPoweramp or download from HDTracks, Linn, etc. the 2a thru 2d structure is created automatically. It really is simple and nothing to be concerned about. The BDP-1 is great in that you then have instant access to your music collection. :thumb:
Tony
-
I just thought you copy files over to the thumb drive.
You can and just play them, any other structure is up to you and how you want your music organised. On my main drives it is just ordered as it comes out of dbpoweramp and I am happy with that.
I also have a drive with some favourites on it which is just a bunch of tracks, no structure at all...
It is your choice, not mandatory.
Cheers
-
Are you guys ripping as FLAC or WAV?
Thanks.
-
Are you guys ripping as FLAC or WAV?
Thanks.
FLAC for me
-
FLAC for me
Me too
-
Flac for me, too. With no issues.
A guy from the hi-fi shop compared Flac versus WAV on a CYRUS streamer.
He said the WAV files were definitely better, sonically. I know it has been written here that both are comparable on the BDP-1.
So perhaps it is a computing power issue with the CYRUS.
Kyri
-
I'm asking, not because I am concerned with audio quality as I am convinced that WAV and FLAC are sonically the same on the BDP-1, but because FLAC is supposed to have better support for tagging.
Is anyone making use of advanced tagging that is available to FLAC?
Thanks.
-
I'm asking, not because I am concerned with audio quality as I am convinced that WAV and FLAC are sonically the same on the BDP-1, but because FLAC is supposed to have better support for tagging.
Is anyone making use of advanced tagging that is available to FLAC?
Thanks.
I use mp3tag and I tend to use all the available tags plus embedded album art.
Dead easy to use and works just great. Just right click on the containing folder and it appears in the context sensitive menu
-
Is anyone making use of advanced tagging that is available to FLAC?
Same as Terry for me, using dbpoweramp it does most of the hard work populating the Tagging data, but anything you want to add is a simple right click away. It is a massive plus for me over WAV.
Cheers
-
Same as Terry for me, using dbpoweramp it does most of the hard work populating the Tagging data, but anything you want to add is a simple right click away. It is a massive plus for me over WAV.
Cheers
Can you elaborate a bit. I am using dBPoweramp, and in the Meta section, I can add tags for WAV. There does not seem to be a difference. Can you point out what tagging you can do in FLAC that cannot be done in WAV?
Thanks.
-
Can you point out what tagging you can do in FLAC that cannot be done in WAV?
Tagging an uncompressed WAV file is accomplished in a separate file, while in FLAC the metadata tag is embedded. If you took the FLAC file and placed in on a CD and played it in your car, the data is available since it's embedded in the file. Not so with the WAV file - there would be no tag data.
-
Tagging an uncompressed WAV file is accomplished in a separate file, while in FLAC the metadata tag is embedded. If you took the FLAC file and placed in on a CD and played it in your car, the data is available since it's embedded in the file. Not so with the WAV file - there would be no tag data.
Thanks for taking the time to answer and in helping me understand the differences in output formats.
I looked at the fileset created by dBpoweramp and there is not a separate file with tagging information, but my tags are actually embedded in the wav file. I know this because I have inspected the output folder. In addition, when inspecting any wav file created with dBpoweramp, I can see that album art has been imbedded along with other tags directly into the file.
Am I missing someting?
-
WAV doesn't natively support tags but I believe some programs (dBpoweramp) support the WAV ID3v2 metadata container that write a limited set of fields in a block at the end of the WAV file. I don't know how many players support this protocol though.
-
WAV doesn't natively support tags but I believe some programs (dBpoweramp) support the WAV ID3v2 metadata container that write a limited set of fields in a block at the end of the WAV file. I don't know how many players support this protocol though.
Ok, now I know what is going on. Thanks for clearing that up.
Everyone kept telling me that FLAC was superior to WAV because of WAV's lack of tagging support. However on my end, all of my tags were there, and I did not realize that dBpoweramp's support for WAV tagging was more than normal.
I also get that even though dBpoweramp writes the tag, not all media players can see the tag, which could complicate issues down the road.
Right now I'm using the BDP-1 as my player with the Gnome player as my interface. I'm basically a play it on random guy so WAV without tagging works for me.
At any rate, thank you for clearing this up for me. I understand better what is going on now at least.
-
-----Original Message-----
From: Phil Hansen
Sent: July-27-11 4:04 AM
To: Bryston
Subject: Media coverage - Bryston reviews
James
Included with this month's What Hi-Fi? magazine is a supplement, The Ultimate Guide to High End, in which the BDP-1 and BDA-1 are featured. Please find enclosed scans of these two reviews. Very few products are selected to feature in this publication, so to get two reviews published in one issue is a real result.
kind regards
Phil
-
Nice one, James.
-
I understand that the BDP is being covered in the latest issue of Hi-Fi Plus
Has anybody seen it yet?
-
Is scooted though it. it's pretty lousy review. The usual issues arise; it isn't a streamer, etc. And he actually said that the Naim Uniti(I think) sounded better.
The other issue is that it was written by Malcolm Steward. He who writes for
Hi-Fi Choice magazine. And he is a Naim man through and through.
At least his bias is clearly known.
Kyri
-
Is scooted though it. it's pretty lousy review. The usual issues arise; it isn't a streamer, etc. And he actually said that the Naim Uniti(I think) sounded better.
The other issue is that it was written by Malcolm Steward. He who writes for
Hi-Fi Choice magazine. And he is a Naim man through and through.
At least his bias is clearly known.
Kyri
Sounds mich like the writeup in Hifi Critic then, where it was slagged off for not being a Naim.
The guy who wrote the Hifi Critic article works or used to work for Naim.
-
Terry,
It's a shame that certain equipment goes to that type of reviewer.
We all have a bias, and I have no issue as long as it is obvious or clear.
But the 'this is better than that' type of review is poor and pathetic.
It does journalism no good, and it hinders the progress of peoples' passion.
Furthermore, if one doesn't 'get' the BDP-1 then put it down and go fetch an adult.
Kyri
-
Hi Folks,
Apparently the review is out in this current issue of the Absolute Sound Magazine on the BDP-1 Digital Player.
I am getting a PDF of it done up so I should have it available in a few days.
james
-
James,
Excellent! The magazine isn't readily available here. Is there any possibility you could forward the pdf by email?
(I'm listening to the Beastie Boys at the moment. And their cheekiness is coming through very well)
Kyri
-
James,
Excellent! The magazine isn't readily available here. Is there any possibility you could forward the pdf by email?
(I'm listening to the Beastie Boys at the moment. And their cheekiness is coming through very well)
Kyri
Sure once I have it I will let everyone know and they can send me an email at jamestanner@bryston.com
james
-
Wonderful.
Thank you, James.
-
I just received the September 2011 Absolute Sound that has the BDP-1 review. My favorite comment:
"With the BDP-1, Bryston has created a reference grade source component that merits comparison with anything at any price - a remarkable achievement. tas"
Congrats James :thumb:
-Greg
-
I just received the September 2011 Absolute Sound that has the BDP-1 review. My favorite comment:
"With the BDP-1, Bryston has created a reference grade source component that merits comparison with anything at any price - a remarkable achievement. tas"
Congrats James :thumb:
-Greg
Yes thanks Greg - I am trying to get a PDF of the review.
james
-
Yes thanks Greg - I am trying to get a PDF of the review.
james
It is a great review and in addition the Cover has a statement about the BDP-1: "BRYSTON'S BDP-1 Revolutionizes Computer Audio".
Tony
-
BUGGER!
I've just realised a saw a copy on the shelf at my local newsagent. Tomorrow.....
Kyri
-
Nice Feedback from the UK :thumb:
From: Richard Mercer - UK
Sent: August-10-11 5:01 PM
To: James Tanner
Subject: Re: BDP-1
Gentlemen,
I have been loaned a BDP-1 to try by PMC, I have to say I'm mightily impressed with it so far.
I've been using iPeng with a Squeezebox Touch powered by a Terry Pardo linear power supply and I've applied all Soundcheck's tweaks to the Touch. I reckoned this was about as far as I needed to go until I heard the BDP-1 ….which just buries it.
A further comment I would like to make is that classical music, in particular the violins in orchestras have never sounded 'right' to me until I heard the BDP-1. Now they sound just as one hears them in a concert hall, plus the overall sound of this player comes across either with immense power or extreme delicacy as the music demands. I find it really rewarding to listen to, just like a good analogue source - and that's not meant as an insult!.
Kind regards
Richard
-
Hi Folks,
Absolute Sound Review on Bryston BDP-1 Digital Player
ftp://ftp.bryston.com/pub/REVIEWS-PRESS/bdp1+bda1_Absoule_Sound_reprint.pdf
(1.3MB)
james
-
Dos the ftp require user name & password, James?
-
Dos the ftp require user name & password, James?
Not for me, I hjust clicked on the link and it opened in Acrobat
-
Dos the ftp require user name & password, James?
Use Explorer or Firefox browser
james
-
Thanks, Terry & James. I restarted IE and could down load the article now. :thumb:
Not for me, I hjust clicked on the link and it opened in Acrobat
-
Use Explorer or Firefox browser
james
I had no problem with Safari - just a click on the link :thumb:
Tony
-
Oh the temptation! Do I get one now, or do I wait? :dunno:
-
Nice review. However, when I read this:
"I experimented with various vibration-evacuation cones and isolation devices beneath the BDP-1’s chassis, but they all added frequency-specific colorations that compromised its fundamental coherence."
It reminded me why I stopped reading audio mags a decade ago. I think it was about the time that Stereophile started extolling the sound improvement derived from exotic African wood pucks placed on top of amps or inserted into the lower GI tract; I can't remember which gave the best result.
Steve
-
Nice review. However, when I read this:
"I experimented with various vibration-evacuation cones and isolation devices beneath the BDP-1’s chassis, but they all added frequency-specific colorations that compromised its fundamental coherence."
It reminded me why I stopped reading audio mags a decade ago. I think it was about the time that Stereophile started extolling the sound improvement derived from exotic African wood pucks placed on top of amps or inserted into the lower GI tract; I can't remember which gave the best result.
Steve
Hi Steve,
If I remember correctly I think the African pucks lost out to the Canadian (hockey) pucks :thumb:
james
-
Hi Steve,
If I remember correctly I think the African pucks lost out to the Canadain (hockey) pucks :thumb:
james
James,
We could do with some of those flying pucks over here right now. The kids are tearing up the city.
Fantastic review, James. It sums up how I feel about the BDP-1.
On so many occasions I've sat down & queued up a list of music tracks - resisting the temptation to replay tunes I've already heard. And the next few hours have turned into an emotional experience. It sounds silly, I know, but I've been left tearful and aghast at the whole feel of the music.
It isn't simply great sound anymore, it's pure joy & perfection!
The BDP-1 is something to be relished. Like a big, fat meal after a huge beer binge, but without any of the consequences. And I am so very proud to own it.
James, this is your passion & your livelihood. But don't ever under estimate the impact of your work. For me, it is the realisation that what I desire can be achieved, built and live in my home. Thank you so very much again.
Kyri
-
Oh the temptation! Do I get one now, or do I wait? :dunno:
Order one now!
I ordered one last week and it (along with a BDA-1) will arrive tomorrow.
George
-
Nice review. However, when I read this:
"I experimented with various vibration-evacuation cones and isolation devices beneath the BDP-1’s chassis, but they all added frequency-specific colorations that compromised its fundamental coherence."
It reminded me why I stopped reading audio mags a decade ago. I think it was about the time that Stereophile started extolling the sound improvement derived from exotic African wood pucks placed on top of amps or inserted into the lower GI tract; I can't remember which gave the best result.
Steve
I saw this too and scratched my head.
I have my digital source, preamp, and power conditioning on a Sistrum rack and amps on Silent Running Audio platforms and they definitely don't add colorations.
The BDP-1 and BDA-1 will go on the top level of my Sistrum SP-4 rack for now. I will use something between the two pieces until I get an additional shelf for the SP-4 in the coming weeks.
George
-
I run my system with the 'mute' button firmly ON.
That way it isn't susceptible to any vibration travelling through the ether.
Kyri
-
http://hifi-unlimited.blogspot.com/2011/08/ultimate-digital-source-tad-d600-cdsacd.html
Read the story before telling me this is not a review for the BDP. 8)
-
:lol:
Nice review. However, when I read this:
"I experimented with various vibration-evacuation cones and isolation devices beneath the BDP-1’s chassis, but they all added frequency-specific colorations that compromised its fundamental coherence."
It reminded me why I stopped reading audio mags a decade ago. I think it was about the time that Stereophile started extolling the sound improvement derived from exotic African wood pucks placed on top of amps or inserted into the lower GI tract; I can't remember which gave the best result.
Steve
Nice review. However, when I read this:
"I experimented with various vibration-evacuation cones and isolation devices beneath the BDP-1’s chassis, but they all added frequency-specific colorations that compromised its fundamental coherence."
It reminded me why I stopped reading audio mags a decade ago. I think it was about the time that Stereophile started extolling the sound improvement derived from exotic African wood pucks placed on top of amps or inserted into the lower GI tract; I can't remember which gave the best result.
Steve
If you really want to read a load of c..p, read Sam Tellig's column in the latest Stereophile. $4,000 for voo doo that changes the air in your room (but only if the windows are closed).
-
Hi Folks,
Absolute Sound Review on Bryston BDP-1 Digital Player
ftp://ftp.bryston.com/pub/REVIEWS-PRESS/bdp1+bda1_Absoule_Sound_reprint.pdf
(1.3MB)
james
James, in the sidebar, the author claims that the S/PDIf connection was superior to the AES/EUB connection. You seem to disagree (or at least did when I bought my BDP1). Any thoughts on this?
Congrats on a fabulous review. Now when will the rest of Audiophilia realize what a great product and ground breaking achievment the BDP1 is.Nice review. However, when I read this:
"I experimented with various vibration-evacuation cones and isolation devices beneath the BDP-1’s chassis, but they all added frequency-specific colorations that compromised its fundamental coherence."
It reminded me why I stopped reading audio mags a decade ago. I think it was about the time that Stereophile started extolling the sound improvement derived from exotic African wood pucks placed on top of amps or inserted into the lower GI tract; I can't remember which gave the best result.
Steve
Nice review. However, when I read this:
"I experimented with various vibration-evacuation cones and isolation devices beneath the BDP-1’s chassis, but they all added frequency-specific colorations that compromised its fundamental coherence."
It reminded me why I stopped reading audio mags a decade ago. I think it was about the time that Stereophile started extolling the sound improvement derived from exotic African wood pucks placed on top of amps or inserted into the lower GI tract; I can't remember which gave the best result.
Steve
If you really want to read a load of c..p, read Sam Tellig's column in the latest Stereophile. $4,000 for voo doo that changes the air in your room (but only if the windows are closed).
-
http://hifi-unlimited.blogspot.com/2011/08/ultimate-digital-source-tad-d600-cdsacd.html
Read the story before telling me this is not a review for the BDP. 8)
Maybe the reviewer was a little confused about what he was reviewing. He certainly was confused about what he was listening to. His favorite Jennifer Warnes CD, "The Well" does not include the song "Ode to Billie Joe" and I don't think she ever recorded that song.
Tony
-
He sure was wrong on the NAS thing too..
In fact it all makes these kind of reviews quite unreliable not to say useless. Too bad really.
Marius
Maybe the reviewer was a little confused about what he was reviewing. He certainly was confused about what he was listening to. His favorite Jennifer Warnes CD, "The Well" does not include the song "Ode to Billie Joe" and I don't think she ever recorded that song.
Tony
-
"I run my system with the 'mute' button firmly ON.
That way it isn't susceptible to any vibration travelling through the ether. "
********
That is F'ing brilliant. 16 years of higher education in science wasted; using the mute button never occurred to me.
My cat is causing standing wave interference in the Ether which induces quantum instability in the interconnect between my BDA/BDP. The $50,000 un-obtainium interconnect didn't correct the problem and probably induced secondary/tertiary harmonic colorations in the equipment rack. Using the mute button has solved the problem.
Thanks
Steve
P.S. Maybe I should try the $4k air thingy?
-
Thanks Steve,
I commend your efforts. I, though, am going to follow a different course.
I'm presently under-pinning my house. But not with any of that nasty, rigid concrete stuff. I'm transplanting it for a delicate mix of sorbothane and strawberry jelly(jello to you Americans).
Those pesky vibrations will never make it through to my living room!
Kyri
-
"Those pesky vibrations will never make it through to my living room! "
*******
Keep us informed on the progress of this important project. Maybe Sam Tellig will recognize you efforts.
I think that the jelly idea has merit. My felis domesticus induced frequency-specific colorations that compromises the BDA/BDP's fundamental coherence is related to motion of said felis inducing quantum entanglement of the interconnect electrons with a BDP analog located in M85. Shun Moon Mpingo discs seemed to improve the coloration but worsened the fundamental coherence.
I am currently doing home re-model so adding a few thousand kilos of jelly to the foundation shouldn't pose a significant problem.
Steve
-
Jeezus, Steve! Preparation - preparation - preparation, my friend.
You must get the details just right. Jelly to water ratio, pouring angle ambient temperature and flow rate.
Once I perfect the formula I'll pass on the tweakery secrets.
Kyri
-
James,
Congrats on the outstanding review in Absolute Sound. Thanks for posting the PDF file. I actually went to Barnes and Noble tonight hoping to pick up the latest issue, but they didn't have it yet.
I think you just might sell a few BDP-1's......
:thumb:
-
^^^^
I am so glad I got mine before the big queue formed :D
Cheers
-
From: Daniel Lee
Sent: August-17-11 12:31 PM
To: 'James Tanner'
Subject: RE: BDP-1
Hi James;
Got my BDP-1 hooked up
It sounds good - really, really good! I thought I’d done a decent job of building a music server (and I did), but it’s not a BDP-1. It’s not a “wow” type of difference, but more of a qualitative thing – with the BDP-1 it’s easier to hear into the soundstage and follow the individual instruments in the mix. It’s quite intoxicating; it’s hard to stop listening. That’s just my first impression - I’ll have more to say after some serious comparative listening. I’m definitely in ENJOY mode.
I can access the BDP-1 both through Google Chrome, and with Mpod on my Ipod. Works great.
Thanks,
Dan
-
"I can tell you that in the last two years I have heard a lot of CD players, music servers, and streamers. The BDP-1 for me is clearly at the top of the heap, regardless of price point, and by a wide margin."
http://www.avrev.com/home-theater-media-servers/music-servers/bryston-bdp-1-digital-file-player.html
james
-
"I can tell you that in the last two years I have heard a lot of CD players, music servers, and streamers. The BDP-1 for me is clearly at the top of the heap, regardless of price point, and by a wide margin."
http://www.avrev.com/home-theater-media-servers/music-servers/bryston-bdp-1-digital-file-player.html
james
Sounds like he intends to buy one?
James I think your sales to reviewers would keep your production team busy without anyone else....
:D
-
Sounds like he intends to buy one?
James I think your sales to reviewers would keep your production team busy without anyone else....
:D
Yes it certainly has been an interesting journey for me these last few months with the BDP-1. It really has affected the reviewers in a very positive way. It is funny though how initially their first reaction to the BDP-1 player is -"what the hell is it and why do I care" - then they hear it and play with it and say "OK now I get it James" :thumb:
james
-
"I can tell you that in the last two years I have heard a lot of CD players, music servers, and streamers. The BDP-1 for me is clearly at the top of the heap, regardless of price point, and by a wide margin."
http://www.avrev.com/home-theater-media-servers/music-servers/bryston-bdp-1-digital-file-player.html
james
At least at my home the BDP-1 has made CD players obsolete. I received two CDs yesterday from Amazon and before I could play them I spent a few minutes ripping them and loading them on to the BDP-1. I have been using the BDP-1 daily for 9 months now and I could not be happier with it. :thumb: :thumb:
Tony
-
At least at my home the BDP-1 has made CD players obsolete. I received two CDs yesterday from Amazon and before I could play them I spent a few minutes ripping them and loading them on to the BDP-1. I have been using the BDP-1 daily for 9 months now and I could not be happier with it. :thumb: :thumb:
Tony
Tony,
What you are describing happened to me over five years ago when I committed to computer based audio and said goodbye to dealing with cd players forever.
The BDP-1 just makes the "discless" experience better!
George
-
At least at my home the BDP-1 has made CD players obsolete. I received two CDs yesterday from Amazon and before I could play them I spent a few minutes ripping them and loading them on to the BDP-1. I have been using the BDP-1 daily for 9 months now and I could not be happier with it. :thumb: :thumb:
Tony
Same here, my CDs get played once, to rip them and then go in the cupboard. The irony being I have never bought so many CDs as I have since buying the BDP-1, to then not actually play them! :duh:
Much to my Wife's shock I have also not played any vinyl since the BDP arrived! I have now mostly ripped them to 24/96 FLAC and enjoy them easily on the BDP.
Just need more storage now...
Cheers
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Congrats James. Another wonderful review. So pleased that some of the most recent reviews have focused on sonics. :thumb:
"I can tell you that in the last two years I have heard a lot of CD players, music servers, and streamers. The BDP-1 for me is clearly at the top of the heap, regardless of price point, and by a wide margin."
http://www.avrev.com/home-theater-media-servers/music-servers/bryston-bdp-1-digital-file-player.html
james
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to be honest I find it to be a useless and inadequate review. Great to see it likes the BDP, but we all do over here....justly so.
Hope it does Bryston any good, but suspect potential buyers to be a lot more inquisitive than this review, and many others for that matter, answers for.
I feel that mentioning the review on this forum is more to the benefit for the magazine and its commercial partners, and based upon this review unjustly so, than the review is for the BDP.
Utterly enjoying the BDP/BDA
Sorry.
Marius
Congrats James. Another wonderful review. So pleased that some of the most recent reviews have focused on sonics. :thumb:
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Marius,
Interesting point of view. For you, what would have made it a more useful review?
to be honest I find it to be a useless and inadequate review. Great to see it likes the BDP, but we all do over here....justly so.
Hope it does Bryston any good, but suspect potential buyers to be a lot more inquisitive than this review, and many others for that matter, answers for.
I feel that mentioning the review on this forum is more to the benefit for the magazine and its commercial partners, and based upon this review unjustly so, than the review is for the BDP.
Utterly enjoying the BDP/BDA
Sorry.
Marius
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well it's not that easy to explain, but when I read the Stereophile's or the 6moons reviews, I feel that the reviewers do make an effort to try to measure the systems they review. They give a professional view, based on at least some 'objective' aspects.
Can still agree to disagree of course, but there seems to be at least some professional ethos.
this latest review does nothing but mention the BDP and say it sounds great. How easy is that. I really get the feeling they try to get "read" by google en attract visitors by mentioning the name Bryston only.
Be honest, what did you read in the review that was of some technical or musical interest.....What was the use for you reading this review. None whatsoever.
just my 2 cents of course.
Marius
Marius,
Interesting point of view. For you, what would have made it a more useful review?
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Thats interesting because the criticism I have gotten on preveous reviews was the reviewer spent to much time on the interfaces and technical stuff and not enough on the sound - which is the whole point of course.
Time to write a review Marius :thumb:
James
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Hi James,
Indeed I think reviews ought to tackle all criteria: interface, technical stuff and sound. Of course I do. Don;t we all? the latest review did not really touch any of those. Merely saying it sounds better than machines "I auditioned the last 2 years" is not very to the point...
We all know how websites try to attract visitors. Mentioning Bryston does attract. Justly so. You make great gear!
I think you wrote yourself that the demo is everything. And why. to get to know the reviewer and his/hers expertise on the subject. I missed that in the review we are discussing.
but: utterly enjoying Bach's Hohe Messe right now in 24/192: http://www.linnrecords.com/recording-j-s-bach-mass-in-b-minor-breitkopf-hartel-edition-edited-by-j-rifkin-2006.aspx (http://www.linnrecords.com/recording-j-s-bach-mass-in-b-minor-breitkopf-hartel-edition-edited-by-j-rifkin-2006.aspx)
let us talk about music.
Marius
Thats interesting because the criticism I have gotten on preveous reviews was the reviewer spent to much time on the interfaces and technical stuff and not enough on the sound - which is the whole point of course.
Time to write a review Marius :thumb:
James
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When I first looked at this review I scanned through it quickly and thought "yeah, yeah another great BDP-1 review. I already know that stuff." When I read Marius' post I decided to reread it more carefully. My second take is that it is really an excellent review for the person who is not a BDP-1 owner and is researching info on the player. Lots of good information about the player and its operation while emphasizing how it sounds. It also includes good information provided through an interview with James as well as specifications and details on the review systems. My conclusion is that it is an excellent source of information for the prospective BDP-1 buyer and that is really the primary value of any review.
Tony
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Yes it certainly has been an interesting journey for me these last few months with the BDP-1. It really has affected the reviewers in a very positive way. It is funny though how initially their first reaction to the BDP-1 player is -"what the hell is it and why do I care" - then they hear it and play with it and say "OK now I get it James" :thumb:
james
James, you may not remember, but when you announced the BDP-1 before it was shipped, you had to work like hell to explain what it was, saying mostly what it wasn't. I wrote you early on telling you that I simply couldn't see its advantage. But I bought is sight unseen (ser, no. 13) on faith I haven't been disappointed. But it shouldn't be surprising if reviewers ask "what the hell is it and why do I care."
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Hi Dave
Yes I think you are correct :duh:. When you go a different direction than everyone else some amount of criticism is common I guess. I remember reading a comment on an English forum after I announced the BDP and the poster said " Bryston must have some of the dumbest engineers in the world". Of course it was my idea not the engineers - I was crushed :duh:
James
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Hi Dave
Yes I think you are correct :duh:. When you go a different direction than everyone else some amount of criticism is common I guess. I remember reading a comment on an English forum after I announced the BDP and the poster said " Bryston must have some of the dumbest engineers in the world". Of course it was my idea not the engineers - I was crushed :duh:
James
“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; because there is not effort without error and shortcomings; but who does actually strive to do the deed; who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotion, who spends himself in a worthy cause, who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement and who at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly. So that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.”
Theodore Roosevelt
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Hi Dave
Yes I think you are correct :duh:. When you go a different direction than everyone else some amount of criticism is common I guess. I remember reading a comment on an English forum after I announced the BDP and the poster said " Bryston must have some of the dumbest engineers in the world". Of course it was my idea not the engineers - I was crushed :duh:
James
Unfortunately, a lot of people blindly go by what the "reviewer experts" say and base their buying decisions on they's, which I find astonishing.
A lot of people ask dumb questions in forums asking for advice from total stangers on what equipment to buy and they go out and buy it sight unseen (or unheard).
This is also happens in a lot of the camera forums.
Unfortunately, a lot of these "experts" have their own agendas which they don't publish, like take commisions and contracts from competitors.
There have been a number of damning reviews in the British press of the BDP-1. I listen to mine and smile! These guys loose my respect and I now longer take them seriously.
After all, what do I know, I spent my money on a BDP-1
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Hi Dave
Yes I think you are correct :duh:. When you go a different direction than everyone else some amount of criticism is common I guess. I remember reading a comment on an English forum after I announced the BDP and the poster said " Bryston must have some of the dumbest engineers in the world". Of course it was my idea not the engineers - I was crushed :duh:
James
James: You can take full credit for the great idea in creating the BDP-1, and the decision after its introduction to make changes users were asking for, a number of whom made their wishes known on this circle. Clearly, you can't do all that all users may want, but if being an audiophile means keeping your ears open, being an audio manufacturer surely must mean keeping them open wider still.
But I think you would agree that the main point is to learn from past experience, which is one of Bryston's strengths.
One new product that you're soon to introduce is the BHA-1 headphone amp. On the plus side, you have responded to those potential buyers who need a balance control. What has yet to be known is how much the product will be responsive to the headphone market. You have been acquiring headphones to test the unit, but I wonder if you have been as aggressive in researching what the headphone market wants, and above all, if have you looked at the real competition, namely the many headphone amps available, some of which are priced well above the BHA-1's tentative price and others well below.
From what I've read, it appears that the headphone amp market seems to want powerful amps, not only because they drive orthodynamic headphones better, but also because they would appear to drive all headphones better. And IMHO, this market demand is driven to a large extent by enthusiasts for whom professional and consumer reviews are important - perhaps more important even than in other audio markets because it is rare to be able to demo some of these amps (see the Demo is Dead thread).
Enthusiasts would like to know how the BHA-1 compares to other headphone amps - Woo, Burson, Schiit, HeadRoom, etc. etc.? Maybe you can't acquire all these, but looking at Headphone Mania on AC would tell you what the respected and hot ones are?
In the run up to the shipping of the BHA-1, a number of potential buyers have been asking for "detailed" descriptions about how the BHA-1 performs especially with hard-to-drive cans, and especially when compared to other amps. Saying they sound nice or good, with respect, doesn't help much.
You know that I am a long-time Bryston customer, and one of your most satisfied customers because the company always executes well and service is impeccable. And I'm sure that the BHA-1 is likely to be outstanding. But in developing and setting the stage for its introduction, the things I've mentioned here, could help you in avoiding the uphill "explanation" battle that you encountered with potential customers and reviewers that you had with the marvelous BDP-1. This time, my guess is that the big question to answer now is, "Why does the world need another headphone amp, and why does Bryston think it has something to offer that other headphone amps don't deliver?"
Dave
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A lot of people ask dumb questions in forums asking for advice from total stangers on what equipment to buy and they go out and buy it sight unseen (or unheard).
*********
Including me. Without local dealers for "high end" gear, seeing and hearing is difficult. I bought my BDA/P combo after reading about the BDP here. As an owner of other Bryston products, I was confident that I was buying high quality at a fair price and ordered on-line without a second thought.
Steve
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A lot of people ask dumb questions in forums asking for advice from total stangers on what equipment to buy and they go out and buy it sight unseen (or unheard).
*********
Including me. Without local dealers for "high end" gear, seeing and hearing is difficult. I bought my BDA/P combo after reading about the BDP here. As an owner of other Bryston products, I was confident that I was buying high quality at a fair price and ordered on-line without a second thought.
Steve
Steve, I'm right with you on this! I just finished ordering something where there was just no way to kick the tires first. I spent several days reading and asking a lot of questions - often really dumb ones - before deciding what to buy and where to buy it. And then there is a lot of crossing of fingers waiting for stuff to come and wondering if it's going to be right. This is why I wrote the long message on this thread to James this morning about the BHA-1, because like so many on this circle, we have a lot of trust in him and Bryston, and are crying out for lots of information (in effect, pre-release reviews in the case of the BHA-1) more than just to satisfy our curiosity - it is what we need to make buying decisions.
Dave
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James: You can take full credit for the great idea in creating the BDP-1, and the decision after its introduction to make changes users were asking for, a number of whom made their wishes known on this circle. Clearly, you can't do all that all users may want, but if being an audiophile means keeping your ears open, being an audio manufacturer surely must mean keeping them open wider still.
But I think you would agree that the main point is to learn from past experience, which is one of Bryston's strengths.
One new product that you're soon to introduce is the BHA-1 headphone amp. On the plus side, you have responded to those potential buyers who need a balance control. What has yet to be known is how much the product will be responsive to the headphone market. You have been acquiring headphones to test the unit, but I wonder if you have been as aggressive in researching what the headphone market wants, and above all, if have you looked at the real competition, namely the many headphone amps available, some of which are priced well above the BHA-1's tentative price and others well below.
From what I've read, it appears that the headphone amp market seems to want powerful amps, not only because they drive orthodynamic headphones better, but also because they would appear to drive all headphones better. And IMHO, this market demand is driven to a large extent by enthusiasts for whom professional and consumer reviews are important - perhaps more important even than in other audio markets because it is rare to be able to demo some of these amps (see the Demo is Dead thread).
Enthusiasts would like to know how the BHA-1 compares to other headphone amps - Woo, Burson, Schiit, HeadRoom, etc. etc.? Maybe you can't acquire all these, but looking at Headphone Mania on AC would tell you what the respected and hot ones are?
In the run up to the shipping of the BHA-1, a number of potential buyers have been asking for "detailed" descriptions about how the BHA-1 performs especially with hard-to-drive cans, and especially when compared to other amps. Saying they sound nice or good, with respect, doesn't help much.
You know that I am a long-time Bryston customer, and one of your most satisfied customers because the company always executes well and service is impeccable. And I'm sure that the BHA-1 is likely to be outstanding. But in developing and setting the stage for its introduction, the things I've mentioned here, could help you in avoiding the uphill "explanation" battle that you encountered with potential customers and reviewers that you had with the marvelous BDP-1. This time, my guess is that the big question to answer now is, "Why does the world need another headphone amp, and why does Bryston think it has something to offer that other headphone amps don't deliver?"
Dave
Hi Dave,
So far I have checked out these:
http://www.wooaudio.com/products/wa22.html
http://www.headphone.com/headphone-amps/headroom-balanced-ultra-desktop-amp-buda.php
http://www.audio-gd.com/Pro/Headphoneamp/Phoenix/PH1.jpg
http://aphroditecu29.com/Violectric/V181.aspx
http://www.raysamuelsaudio.com/products/b-52
http://www.raysamuelsaudio.com/products/apache
http://www.ttvjaudio.com/store/comersus_viewItem.asp?idProduct=31
james
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Hi Dave,
So far I have checked out these:
http://www.wooaudio.com/products/wa22.html
http://www.headphone.com/headphone-amps/headroom-balanced-ultra-desktop-amp-buda.php
http://www.audio-gd.com/Pro/Headphoneamp/Phoenix/PH1.jpg
http://aphroditecu29.com/Violectric/V181.aspx
http://www.raysamuelsaudio.com/products/b-52
http://www.raysamuelsaudio.com/products/apache
http://www.ttvjaudio.com/store/comersus_viewItem.asp?idProduct=31
james
Thanks, James. It's encouraging to see what you have looked at. There's no way to try all of them. They seem to breed like rabbits. :D
Dave
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Hi Dave,
So far I have checked out these:
http://www.wooaudio.com/products/wa22.html
http://www.headphone.com/headphone-amps/headroom-balanced-ultra-desktop-amp-buda.php
http://www.audio-gd.com/Pro/Headphoneamp/Phoenix/PH1.jpg
http://aphroditecu29.com/Violectric/V181.aspx
http://www.raysamuelsaudio.com/products/b-52
http://www.raysamuelsaudio.com/products/apache
http://www.ttvjaudio.com/store/comersus_viewItem.asp?idProduct=31
james
James, I am running the WA22 with GEC 6AS7G power tubes, Tung Sol 6SN7 BGRP drivers and an EML 5U4G rectifier. My headphones are the Sennheiser HD800 and I also have a pair of LCD-2 (r2). My woo is fed by your BDP-1 and a Clearaudio Solution turntable.
I am REALLY glad you are getting into the headphone space as the same equipment will have a different sound signature if you are playing them through speakers or headphones. BTW, they BDP-1 shines in the headphone world because its audio output is so clean. One is much closer to the music and hears so much more through headphones, that all the subtlies of gear + music come through.
So, if you are in the headphone space, I think that will also effect how you look at the BDP-1.
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James, I am running the WA22 with GEC 6AS7G power tubes, Tung Sol 6SN7 BGRP drivers and an EML 5U4G rectifier. My headphones are the Sennheiser HD800 and I also have a pair of LCD-2 (r2). My woo is fed by your BDP-1 and a Clearaudio Solution turntable.
I am REALLY glad you are getting into the headphone space as the same equipment will have a different sound signature if you are playing them through speakers or headphones. BTW, they BDP-1 shines in the headphone world because its audio output is so clean. One is much closer to the music and hears so much more through headphones, that all the subtlies of gear + music come through.
So, if you are in the headphone space, I think that will also effect how you look at the BDP-1.
Thanks - it has been a real learning experience for me and I am having a great time trying all these headphones. Someone told me that unlike speakers there are no real industry recognized standard tests for headphones and therefore they all sound different by design?
james
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Thanks - it has been a real learning experience for me and I am having a great time trying all these headphones. Someone told me that unlike speakers there are no real industry recognized standard tests for headphones and therefore they all sound different by design?
james
James, what will be of interest to headphone users, like mikemalter, I would guess, is what the sound signature of the BHA-1 is. The headphones all sound different and the same headphone sounds different on different amps, I'm told. My Grace Designs, sound exactly like the Bryston Preamp headphone jack, and both are good, but very cold and clinical when using HD800s, IMO. Does the BHA-1 warm up the HD800s?
Dave
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James, it can get a bit confusing when you edit someone else's post and insert your reply instead of just replying with your own post. I know you have admin rights, but ....
Steve
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James, what will be of interest to headphone users, like mikemalter, I would guess, is what the sound signature of the BHA-1 is. The headphones all sound different and the same headphone sounds different on different amps, I'm told. My Grace Designs, sound exactly like the Bryston Preamp headphone jack, and both are good, but very cold and clinical when using HD800s, IMO. Does the BHA-1 warm up the HD800s?
Dave
No I would not say they warm them up but they sound much more dynamic.
James
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Thanks - it has been a real learning experience for me and I am having a great time trying all these headphones. Someone told me that unlike speakers there are no real industry recognized standard tests for headphones and therefore they all sound different by design?
james
James, my very limited understanding is that, yes, there are no industry recognized standard tests for headphones. In addition, manufacturers publish metrics of their choice, and even the metric with the same name can mean different things to different manufacturers.
I think one of the bigger issues you'll face in some corners of the audiophile community is in setting market expectations for what headphones your amp will drive. There are people who understand the details of this issue much more than me, and the people who are really knowledgable about it are over at Head-fi.org. I'm not sure how to even frame the question, but it is my limited understanding that different types of headphones need more output (voltage?) and then there is impedance matching (which I also do not understand). There is this whole other world over there of measurements that I am not inclined to be interested in, but I do know that it really matters to some people and speaks to credibility.
Then there is the issue of balanced outputs and single ended outputs, and I am sure you have a handle on this. Some people swear by balanced and others don't really care. I'm in the still learning camp, and because I have a balanced WA22, I am tending to favor balanced. For example, I bought a portable headphone amp for a trip, and I got the Ray Samuels SR-71B and got a special cable for my LCD-2's so it could take the balanced output. I have listened to the amp single ended, and with balanced the headphone "soundstage" sounded wider. Also, apperently with using the balanced outputs, I have doubled my output voltage which drives the LCD-2 better (why more voltage makes them sound better and I do not know why).
Dave, I find the HD800 to be my reference baseline headphone. I know there are people who feel they are a little bass shy, or maybe are too harsh up top. For me, the HD800's have a certain delicateness and subletly that is very revealing and open. To my ears, they are a very sensitive headphone, not impedance wise, but sonically and one has to be careful with system components because they will play whatever is there.
That was why I tried the BDP-1 in the first place. The HD800 is so revealing, I spent three months working my way through various streaming devices and different DAC's with streamers built in and all of them were basically unlistenable because I was hearing all of the digital smearing and hash that was there. With the BDP-1, immediately I could hear the possibilities; the hash and digital smearing was gone. So, in my mind, it's not a question that the BDP-1 warms up the HD800's, possibly it's that the BDP-1 is so very clean that there is very little competing with the microdetail of the audio cut. However, maybe we are saying the same thing, but expressing the details a little differently. Thoughts?
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First, to James, many thanks for giving me a helpful answer to my question about how the HD800s sound on the BHA-1. Note Mikemalter, that I wasn't asking how the HD800s sound with the BDP-1, which I own. I can attest that the BDP-1 does wonders for audio reproduction. Period. Headphones or otherwise. So, you and I probably do not differ about what the BDP-1 does for the HD800s, and, in fact, that we see them as reference headphones - they play with great accuracy. But you have very different headhone amps than the amp I use, which probably means you are getting more out of your HD800s than I feel I am.
The LCD-2 are a different kettle (or should I say can) of fish, as you know. The measurements on them are very good, even in comparison to HD800s, but their sound signature is altogether different - warmer, in my non-technical terms, more intimate, and, again, IMHO opinion, more musical.
I've said it before, and I'm not alone in this, if I were a sound or recording engineer, HD800s would be my go-to cans. But I'm neither of these. I listen for enjoyment, not analysis. So my HD800s, which are every bit as good, and perhaps even better, than the LCD-2s in a number of ways, now sit in a box, while I smile with delight using the LCD-2s.
Which takes me to how the HD800s and LCD-2s sound on the BHA-1. I will want to try both on the BHA-1. If there is a way, I'd like to try it with my phones with balanced cables, which might be tough to do on a demo basis given that it would make no sense in my situation (I have only RCA connectors on my cans) to buy very expensive balanced leashes before just to demo a BHA-1. This presents a potential quandary (again with the demo being dead) of wondering, based on Mikemalter's comments about balanced connections, if the main advantage of the BHA-1, compared to what I have, might be its balanced connections.
Dave
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First, to James, many thanks for giving me a helpful answer to my question about how the HD800s sound on the BHA-1. Note Mikemalter, that I wasn't asking how the HD800s sound with the BDP-1, which I own. I can attest that the BDP-1 does wonders for audio reproduction. Period. Headphones or otherwise. So, you and I probably do not differ about what the BDP-1 does for the HD800s, and, in fact, that we see them as reference headphones - they play with great accuracy. But you have very different headhone amps than the amp I use, which probably means you are getting more out of your HD800s than I feel I am.
The LCD-2 are a different kettle (or should I say can) of fish, as you know. The measurements on them are very good, even in comparison to HD800s, but their sound signature is altogether different - warmer, in my non-technical terms, more intimate, and, again, IMHO opinion, more musical.
I've said it before, and I'm not alone in this, if I were a sound or recording engineer, HD800s would be my go-to cans. But I'm neither of these. I listen for enjoyment, not analysis. So my HD800s, which are every bit as good, and perhaps even better, than the LCD-2s in a number of ways, now sit in a box, while I smile with delight using the LCD-2s.
Which takes me back to my question to James about the BHA-1. I will want to try both my HD800s and LCD-2s on the BHA-1. If there is a way, I'd like to try it with my phones with balanced cables, which might be tough to do on a demo basis given that it would make no sense in my situation (I have only RCA connectors on my cans) to buy very expensive balanced leashes before buying a BHA-1. This presents a potential quandary (again with the demo being dead) of wondering, based on Mikemalter's comments about balanced connections, if the main advantage of the BHA-1, compared to what I have, might be its balanced connections.
Dave
Dave, glad to hear you love the LCD-2's; I'm trying to love them too, but they just don't do it for me. I'm like you I listen for enjoyment, not analysis. Are your LCD-2's they r1 or r2? How many hours do you have on them? I've heard you need at least 350 hours before they open up. What do you think? Are you using an upgraded cable? What headphone amp & DAC combo are you using? Also, with your BDP-1, what size hard drive are you using?
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Hi Mikemalter: I have the r2 version of the LCD-2s. I've had them for a couple of weeks and have been using them for hours on end, but not 350 hours. There is a running controversy about whether or not headphones need breaking in. Some say it is essential, others that it is a myth. I don't know which is right, but my old ears tell me my LCD-2s are improving with use, especially with a better high end, where they are reputed to be less than stellar.
My amp is a Grace Designs m903, which is as much a pro piece of gear as anything. It is very accurate and clinical, but does not take balanced headphone plugs. I am holding back on upgrading cables because if and when I buy an amp with balanced connections, that would be the time to upgrade.
Beyond that, I have to consider how much headphone use I'll be doing in the future. Right now, I'm using headphones in the absence of a piece of my regular system which is temporarily absent. I have a great regular system, with speakers and electronic that are as good as I can afford. With only so many hours in which to listen to music, I am in the pleasant quandary of how much time to spend listening to my regular system, the LCD-2s, or the HD800s if I find an amp that makes the most of them.
I use a Bryston BDA-1 DAC. I use a 1.5TB hard drive connected to my BDP-1. Most of my 16,000 files are FLAC, which I now regret, because I've found I like AIFF files better.
As to you're not loving the LCD-2s, yet. You may never love them. If audio - from what kind of music you like to what kind of gear turns your crank - is not largely subjective, then it is a con game. If you end up loving Sony $20 cans better than the LCD-2s, then the Sony's are what you should embrace. If the HD800s suit your tastes, then the LCD-2s may not, even with "breaking in," be your cup of tea.
Dave
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Uhh, not to be a killjoy here, but I think you guys have hi-jacked this thread with the headphone discussion. Good discussion, but please start another thread. Thanks.
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Hi Mikemalter: I have the r2 version of the LCD-2s. I've had them for a couple of weeks and have been using them for hours on end, but not 350 hours. There is a running controversy about whether or not headphones need breaking in. Some say it is essential, others that it is a myth. I don't know which is right, but my old ears tell me my LCD-2s are improving with use, especially with a better high end, where they are reputed to be less than stellar.
My amp is a Grace Designs m903, which is as much a pro piece of gear as anything. It is very accurate and clinical, but does not take balanced headphone plugs. I am holding back on upgrading cables because if and when I buy an amp with balanced connections, that would be the time to upgrade.
Beyond that, I have to consider how much headphone use I'll be doing in the future. Right now, I'm using headphones in the absence of a piece of my regular system which is temporarily absent. I have a great regular system, with speakers and electronic that are as good as I can afford. With only so many hours in which to listen to music, I am in the pleasant quandary of how much time to spend listening to my regular system, the LCD-2s, or the HD800s if I find an amp that makes the most of them.
I use a Bryston BDA-1 DAC. I use a 1.5TB hard drive connected to my BDP-1. Most of my 16,000 files are FLAC, which I now regret, because I've found I like AIFF files better.
As to you're not loving the LCD-2s, yet. You may never love them. If audio - from what kind of music you like to what kind of gear turns your crank - is not largely subjective, then it is a con game. If you end up loving Sony $20 cans better than the LCD-2s, then the Sony's are what you should embrace. If the HD800s suit your tastes, then the LCD-2s may not, even with "breaking in," be your cup of tea.
Dave
I'm with you on the enjoyment factor. Right now I'm using my LCD-2's (r2) with a balanced connector paired with a Ray Samuels SR-71B. The LCD's sound nice with it. Headphone cables are so expensive that it's hard to be able to switch around from single ended to balanced. ALO makes a universal cable and then you buy whatever attachments you want with it. I have that one for the LCD-2. However I really like Cardas and over the years as I have moved from one Sennheiser headphone to another, I usually get the Cardas upgraded cable which is really nice. My quandry now is do I get the universal cable for my HD800 or not and then just use it everywhere.
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Uhh, not to be a killjoy here, but I think you guys have hi-jacked this thread with the headphone discussion. Good discussion, but please start another thread. Thanks.
You are right, very sorry.
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Uhh, not to be a killjoy here, but I think you guys have hi-jacked this thread with the headphone discussion. Good discussion, but please start another thread. Thanks.
Ellsworth, thanks for bringing us to order. Guess we were having too much fun to remember what thread we were using.
Dave
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From: Mladen Pernicki
Sent: August-26-11 10:51 AM
To: 'James Tanner'
Subject: RE: BDP-1 -
James
Hooked up the BDP-1 Digital player and the sound is incredible.
I can compare Popcorn (in the modified section, power, master clock and SPDIF output) with the BDP-1. The BDP-1 has a lot of authority in sound quality in any segment in relation to the PopCorn.
All written and praised the BDP-1 on Net is true.
Regards,
Mladen
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From: Sebastian Ionescu
Sent: August-28-11 12:40 AM
To: James Tanner
Subject: bdp-1
Hello James,
My name is Sorin and I wrote to you about sending me the BDP-1 update. Well, it's been 4 weeks of using the BDP and playing around with it and I gotta tell you, I love it. Load times are fast considering I squeezed almost 400 gigs onto a 2 terabyte drive and I add music daily. High res and standard res files load without a glitch and not one skip on any song ever. I like the radio stations too, it's nice to get a break once in awhile and hear something completely different than what I put on the BDP-1.
You will not be too popular with the folks that make cd transports and players, that's for sure, nevermind the music industry that doesn't want us to own anything anymore. We all know their wonderful music model idea, pay everytime you so much as listen to any song.
It's gotta be tough on the CD transport market now that the BDP-1 can not only top their players in performance, but also in features(album art, various file formats/bit rates, remote control options, file storage, ease of use). Naturally, expect some "expert" reviewers to come up with "nuances" in other players that are mysteriously missing from everything else like the BDP-1 or that it's too computery and "harsh, edgy...." etc... in other words, complete lies. Not many will, but a few diehards might be resistant to the idea that not being able to touch their media(ie cds, lps) means it's not as good sounding.
Props to stereophile for their review of the BDP-1 and saying it is a keeper with stunning dynamic range(true) and 3-d imaging(true again).
James, I can not thank you and Bryston enough for the BDP-1. It is truly a GEM of a product which makes my audio system not only sound incredible, but also gives me the ease of use that I had been dreaming about for over 20 years, yes, over 20 years, I used to run old school computers hooked up to my audio system both digitally and in analog, but they never came close to the quality of the BDP-1. To have all my collection perfectly preserved and playable any time of the day or night without the wear and tear/hassle of vinyl or the constant disc changing of CDs is one of the most impressive accomplishments in the Audio industry in decades. The BDP-1 should win a groundbreaking audio component award and I hope more and more people find out about this amazing player. For anyone who not only enjoys music, but has music as an integral part of their life, the BDP-1 is practically a necessity.
Anyway, thank you for the firmware updates with the funny names and great features. I am going to take some more time off to learn some of the other things you can do on start up.
By the way, Lacie makes a 2 terabyte porche drive(aluminum) with the standard usb 3.0 connection (not mini) so you can use the fancy audioquest cables and load up a bazzillion songs. It's a fast and super duper quiet drive
Thank you.
Sebastian Ionescu
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James, has there been a new firmware release?
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James, has there been a new firmware release?
Not since July 15th.
James
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From: Ken Golden
Sent: August-30-11 4:52 PM
To: James Tanner
Subject: My BDP-1 assessment
James: after a week of use here is what I think about the BDP-1 Player:
Sonics are superb. Beyond reproach. I shake my head in amazement when I play back some of the hi-rez stuff. Check out the Lorna Hunt disc from Classic Records - Astounding
I tried the Netgear Powerline adapters and they work flawlessly. I suggest you recommend them. No set up - just plug them in and I'm on the 'net. Took longer to take them out of the box.
James you have a fantastic product here. I admire and appreciate your evangelism. I see your posts on various forums. I have no idea how you have the time to answer everyone - and so promptly.
Ken
P.S. - I'm getting something like 20 Internet stations. I thought there were supposed to be 10?
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another great review in
Germany, Austria, was it already spotted in this forum?
:
http://networkedblogs.com/mmGTt (http://networkedblogs.com/mmGTt)
Marius
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From: BVillet
Sent: September-12-11 6:43 PM
To: jamestanner@bryston.com
Subject: RE: Bryston BDP-1
Dear James,
I would like to make a general comment about the BDP-1. My system consists of Revel Studio speakers, and mainly Levinson electronics, with a 326s as the pre-amp.
I have traditionally played CDs via a Levinson 30/31 combination and uncompressed music files via a Windows 7 setup, with either a Juli@ or an Asus soundcard. The HTPCs are confirmed to play back bit perfect at the correct sampling rate and sample depth. I have recently added the PS Audio PerfectWave combo (with the bridge) and the Bryston BDP-1 and BDA-1 combination to my equipment. I listen to a broad variety of music from all over the world and have added many high resolution files to my collection, either from HDTracks or from vinyl I have slowly been converting using a Micro Seiki vacuum turntable.
I mention the above so you know I have reasonably good equipment when I make the statement that I have been extremely pleased with the BDP-1/BDA-1; in fact, since adding the Bryston combo and the PerfectWave combo it is the first time since the emergence of the compact disc that I do serious listening from digital front ends rather than from analog. So I would like to emphatically state that I think the Bryston combo is an outstanding achievement.
Kind Regards
Willem CB Villet, Ph.D.
President and CEO
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From: Sebastian Ionescu
Sent: August-28-11 12:40 AM
To: James Tanner
Subject:
Hello James,
My name is Sorin and I wrote to you about sending me the BDP-1 update. Well, it's been 4 weeks of using the BDP and playing around with it and I gotta tell you, I love it. Load times are fast considering I squeezed almost 400 gigs onto a 2 terabyte drive and I add music daily. High res and standard res files load without a glitch and not one skip on any song ever. I like the radio stations too, it's nice to get a break once in awhile and hear something completely different than what I put on the BDP-1.
You will not be too popular with the folks that make cd transports and players, that's for sure, nevermind the music industry that doesn't want us to own anything anymore. We all know their wonderful music model idea, pay everytime you so much as listen to any song.
It's gotta be tough on the CD transport market now that the BDP-1 can not only top their players in performance, but also in features(album art, various file formats/bit rates, remote control options, file storage, ease of use). Naturally, expect some "expert" reviewers to come up with "nuances" in other players that are mysteriously missing from everything else like the BDP-1 or that it's too computery and "harsh, edgy...." etc... in other words, complete lies. Not many will, but a few diehards might be resistant to the idea that not being able to touch their media(ie cds, lps) means it's not as good sounding.
Props to stereophile for their review of the BDP-1 and saying it is a keeper with stunning dynamic range(true) and 3-d imaging(true again).
James, I can not thank you and Bryston enough for the BDP-1. It is truly a GEM of a product which makes my audio system not only sound incredible, but also gives me the ease of use that I had been dreaming about for over 20 years, yes, over 20 years, I used to run old school computers hooked up to my audio system both digitally and in analog, but they never came close to the quality of the BDP-1. To have all my collection perfectly preserved and playable any time of the day or night without the wear and tear/hassle of vinyl or the constant disc changing of CDs is one of the most impressive accomplishments in the Audio industry in decades. The BDP-1 should win a groundbreaking audio component award and I hope more and more people find out about this amazing player. For anyone who not only enjoys music, but has music as an integral part of their life, the BDP-1 is practically a necessity.
Anyway, thank you for the firmware updates with the funny names and great features. I am going to take some more time off to learn some of the other things you can do on start up.
By the way, Lacie makes a 2 terabyte porche drive(aluminum) with the standard usb 3.0 connection (not mini) so you can use the fancy audioquest cables and load up a bazzillion songs. It's a fast and super duper quiet drive
Thank you.
Sebastian Ionescu
Hi Sebastian. Are you saying that Audioquest makes a USB cable with connections for USB3? I have been searching for a high grade USB cable to use with my Free Agent Go Flex Seagate drive and my Western Electric My-Passport.
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just pointing you to a nice thread on the Apple Core Forum which speaks for itself.
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=97925.20 (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=97925.20)
Greetings,
Marius
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http://www.avguide.com/review/bryston-bdp-1-digital-player-tas-215
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http://www.avguide.com/buyers-guide/the-absolute-soundhi-fi-guide-digital-source-components
nice user comment.
Marius
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http://www.avguide.com/review/bryston-bdp-1-digital-player-tas-215
This been posted?
Stig
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http://www.avguide.com/review/bryston-bdp-1-digital-player-tas-215
This been posted?
Stig
Yes, ONE post up.
See the bar on the far right of the screen? That's a scroll thing...
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http://www.avguide.com/review/bryston-bdp-1-digital-player-tas-215
Wow, some review, I think James should be very happy with " With the BDP-1, Bryston has created a reference-grade source component that merits comparison with anything at any price—a remarkable achievement."
Cheers
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Hi James,
I revisited the BDP1 in my system at home and I'm very happy to report that I can now transfer AIFF songs/albums from my iTunes library and have the BDP1 read/organize all the tags beautifully! The Mpod app I used worked without a single glitch.
Overall, with the latest firmware updates, the BDP1 is really amazing. I really like being able to create playlists on the fly....or having the option not to!
Thanks again,
James
Absolute Sound - Calgary
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From: Phil Hansen
Sent: October-27-11 8:45 AM
To:Bryston
Subject: Bryston media coverage
Dear All
Enclosed is the BDP-1 and BDA-1 combination have been awarded a Highly Commended badge in HI FI news magazine's Ultimate Hi-Fi edition (their equivalent of an awards issue).
Kind regards
Phil
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=53044)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=53045)