How old is too old?

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mcgsxr

How old is too old?
« on: 4 Sep 2013, 11:46 pm »
I am currently working out a deal on an original 3B Pro.  I am sure it will benefit from a go over via Bryston (located only a few hours from my house), so I am not concerned about caps etc.

I guess what I wonder is, how many folks out there are still using these?  I think they have since done an NRB, ST, STT versions etc.

The 100wpc into 8ohm, and 200wpc into 4 ohm appeals to me greatly, as does the reputation for reliability.  I will have the option to partner a variety of speaker loads in the future, and leave the amp as is.

Cosmetics are irrelevant to me, since it will live in a media cabinet.

Any 3B users out there still happy after all these years?

All the best,

Mark in Canada.

spinner

Re: How old is too old?
« Reply #1 on: 5 Sep 2013, 07:34 am »
 What year would that be? :thumb:

SteveFord

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Re: How old is too old?
« Reply #2 on: 5 Sep 2013, 09:38 am »
There's a 3B Pro in my wife's system and it gets used every day.
I had new caps put in it and it's good for another 20 years.

Chicago

Re: How old is too old?
« Reply #3 on: 5 Sep 2013, 09:48 pm »
My son uses an original 2B that is well past it's warranty and it performs just fine and has never been back for any work.  He uses an old Audiolab pre-amp and it is a nice match with his B&W bookshelf speakers.

sfraser

Re: How old is too old?
« Reply #4 on: 6 Sep 2013, 02:13 pm »
I have several original 3B/4B's kicking around the house, they all work great. Only issue to look out for is the On/Off switch, they tend to go over time. Easy cheap fix back at Bryston, and depending on the model, year and your technical Know/how you might be able to do it yourself.


Cheers,

mcgsxr

Re: How old is too old?
« Reply #5 on: 6 Sep 2013, 02:18 pm »
I'd bet the 3B is from the late 70's, given the chrome handles on it.

Appreciate the insights guys, I know it is an old design, but I also know so many of them are still out in the field that it is a proven design (that has been improved on with subsequent models - that I won't invest in yet).

I am still waiting for the owner to arrange a demo.  I am hopeful.