[GordonJ]

Hi - new here and seeking a bit of advice/experience.

I'm seriously considering switching to a Bryston power amp after hearing a couple of demos with PMC speakers, but Bryston dealers are rare (I'm in UK) and I haven't found anywhere that stocks both Bryston and W-B.  (I've recently acquired a pair of W-B Orators, which I have no intention of changing for a while.)

Have any of you used or heard the combination - I imagine they'd work well together but you can never tell, and W-B dealers all say they need top quality amps to bring the best out of them.  I'm currently using a pair of 150w Cyrus monoblocks, which cost about the same as a 3B sst, but are maybe a bit 'polite' in the bass area.  Wondering about switching to the 3B sst or saving a bit more for a 4B sst, or hoping a 4B st might show up 2nd hand.

Any thoughts welcome.

BTW does anyone know how easy or difficult it is to switch a US/Canada Bryston for use in UK (240V)?

Cheers

Gordon

[BeeBop]

3 and 4BSSTs show up fairly regularly on audiogon although many sellers seem reluctant to ship outside the US. You could get a step down transformer to lower your 220 to 120 - I'd ask Bryston for a comment about this, whether it would be able supply current as needed. Since Bryston and PMC are affiliated and PMC is a Brit outfit, I would have thought that people selling PMCs would be able to help you out. I know that over here (Canada) many Bryston dealers also carry PMC speakers. Given the cost of Bryston gear, maybe your PMC dealer would give you a loaner to try with your Wilsons in your home. I have a 3BSST and BP25 pre-amp and can say honestly that this is a terrific combination. Great bass, full detailed mids, extended clean highs. I'd advise that you skip the ST series and save your money for the SST. The STs were not as good on the highs.

Hope this helps.

[GordonJ]

Thanks BeeBop and others who PM-ed.  Think I'll go for a 3Bsst then - should have enough power I think. My speakers are 6ohm, 89dB sensitivity, and recommended 200w. Will let you know how it works out.

Cheers

Gordon

[GordonJ]

   

So I got a 3B SST.  Had it for a couple of days now and first impressions are very good indeed.  Its bringing out more detail, and the bass is firmer and deeper and more tuneful.  Sooundstage also seems bigger and more precise, and the treble is sweeter.  Felt like a risk buying an amp I hadn't demmed with my own speakers but looks like a worthwhile one and a good match.  Thanks for the encouragement here, and glad to be a Bryston owner.

Cheers

Gordon

[GordonJ]

sorry posted same message twice...

[BeeBop]

You took a risk and it paid off. Ain't it grand bein' a man?