2. amps-preamps
  3. 137352-20132

Bryston 4b3 or BHK 250- how woudl you compare them?

I have posted a couple of times as I am looking for new amplification to replace my Mcintosh MA7000 integrated but that I am running only as am amp with a Prima Luna premium pre-amp (this already was a big improvement).

The system sounds v good but I know I am missing some detail and I would like to get more depth to the sound stage in order to have a sense that I can "look into" the performance.

I have heard the 7B3 monoblocks and was very impressed- that said I was going fback and forth between these and Mcintosh 275 VI and I did find the Mcintosh more involving but just slightly less revealing.   You can see the write up I posted a while back.  Ultimately, if I were to chose I would go for the Macs- but alas both these and the Brystons are more than I'd like to spend.

So I started thinking about the Bryston 4B3 and BHK 250- they are at the same price point so I am curious if anyone can give me sense of the differences and their preferences, if any.

I would be using the Prima Luna as preamp and I am running Magico S1 Mk1- as i said I am hoping to get more depth and detail.  And I heard these speakers do that beautifully but I do not remember the setting and ancillaries- it was while back.   In the current set up I am almost there on detail and airiness (inserting the Prima Luna was a big upgrade) but the soundstage could use more depth in placing the performers in a 3 dimensional space separated from the speakers.  Lateral imaging is v good.

There is also Pass Labs 150.8 for sale and I am intrigued by that as well- power should be adequate but probably not much more than that as Magico's do tend require a good amount of power to be driven appropriately.

Your advice would be greatly appreciated- thanks as always!
pgastone
markalarsen's avatar
markalarsen
651 posts
 
I have tried an older Bryston 7BB and did not like it. I love the PS Audio BHK Signature 250. The ability to roll tubes in this hybrid amp keeps it interesting. Try it, and I doubt you will send it back. Seriously one of the best of dozens of amps I have owned. 
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,602 posts
 
elizabeth
excellent advice and insight as always.  How is the SA-10 settling into your system?
Happy Listening!
digilog5
26 posts
 
I did try for a week or so the 4B3 with MG1.7s but eventually got the BHK250 along the BHK Preamp and I love their sound. Both Bryston and PS are built to a very high standard but different topology and resulting sound. That being said, with the Primaluna pre driving the Bryston you could be looking at a great match. If possible try them out and then decide.
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,602 posts
 

digilog5


if you will, talk about the sound and presentation between 4B3 , BHK250

amps? Sonic signatures as well.  Happy Listening!

aolmrd1241
1,039 posts
 
pgastone said... "I know I am missing some detail and I would like to get more depth to the sound stage in order to have a sense that I can "look into" the performance."

Being an owner of the PL pre..and a tube roller..have you had a chance to try any NOS tubes in the PL yet? The stock tubes are ok but some brand NOS tubes are killer in the PL.. they can get you want you are looking for in spades.

Also,look into the Merrill Audio line of class d amps. I use the Veritas mono’s..in conjunction with the PL... and the sound is to die for and highly musical. Also...if you "really want to step it up to the next level" into audio nirvana..an Akiko Audio Corelli line conditioner is a must have..it is crazy good and will not disappoint on any imaginable level ...period!!!

Good luck in your search...
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