Bryston Vs Classe

I've heard wonderful things about the 4B-SST, but haven't had a chance to audition them in my own home. Brief listening with Joseph Audio speakers / Audible illusions tube preamp was impressive.

Have listened to the Classe stuff (used to sell it, actually)-- With Martin-Logans, B&W matrix and signature series products, Aerial 10T usually with krell CD and krell, classe or Audio Research preamps, I always thought the Classe CA-300 (which if I'm not mistaken is not much different than the 301) sounded a bit too laid back, and I agree with whomever said they doubted power ratings-- it's not that they lack control, their amps just never grabbed my attention with their dynamics. I'm sure they output rated power, you just wouldn't know it to listen to them.

The reason I don't really care for Classe much is why many like the amps, however. They are smoooooth, and I don't think you'll get a debate on that.

As for durability, in my experience selling Classe, and owning a very well-used and daily-flogged Bryston (college years- brutal on an amp), you can't go too far wrong with either brand.

I purchased the Bryston 4B-SST ( replacing the 4B-ST ) which is a HUGE improvement in every aspect. I compared the 4B-SST with the CA 301, the ML 334 and a smaller Krell amp and the 4B-SST was the overall winner. Only the ML 334 came close, but was less powerfull, and less dynamic.( soundstaging and tonal balance about the same ). My system: Nautilus 802's, TacT rcs 2.0 roomcrrection pre-amp,Sony SCD 1 and Bryston 4B-SST.

Thank you Marakanetz for correcting me about rating. I sound like an id#*&. The grainy & bright I found on my system with Bryston 4b-sst properly my speakers, or properly the Bryston was not burn in yet (It was new and borrowed from dealer). By the way, does anyone know how long these amps burn in in average, especially Bryston. The manufacture said they have their products burn in 100 hrs before shipping out. My Classe was taking quite a long time to burn in. It is a lot better now compare at the first time when I bought home. If you have experience with these burn in time, please share. Thanks.

Both Great products. Classe is truly balanced from input to output. Bryston is not. If your pre is truly balanced go Classe. If it is not, and you love the sound of the Bryston, tough to beat their 20 year warranty.

Simple solution, Pass Labs.