FYI -- Power (W) = Volts (V) x Amps (A). Not sure why sometimes you see W and sometimes VA.
I am aware of this formula, but I don't think it applies in the context I'm discussing.
W = V x A is, if I'm not mistaken, a formula to calculate an amp's power output.
The figures Bryston prints on the back of its amps have to do with the amp's power requirements and/or power consumption—the required electrical input, if you will, rather than the power output.
Examples of two 4Bs I have:
4B-SST: 120VAC/60Hz/2100VA
4B-SST2: 120VAC/60Hz/550W
These figures, I presume, have nothing to do with the amps' power output which in both cases is rated at 300/500 Wpc @ 8/4 ohms
The "2100VA" figure may describe—just guessing here, hence my enquiry—the combined rating of the two power transformers.
But the "550W" figure given for the 4B-SST2—I can only imagine of what that may be the measurement.
Again, this has nothing to do with functionality or compatibility with other components or anything like that—I just like to understand all manufacturer's specifications—in this case, why Bryston would use what seem to be completely different measurements on different, but very similar amplifiers.