jafant
I'm a Bryston guy: BP26 - BP17c (two systems), and two 4BSST2 amplifiers. BD-3 spinner in one system, BDA-2 DAC and a Cambridge CD transport in the other. Magnum Dynalab FM tuners in both. (gave upon vinyl). Thiel 2.7 speakers on one system and Bryston Mini T speakers in the other.
I'm torn between the BP26 and the 17c, but lean towards the 26, as it has a polarity reverse capability. I used a BP6 for years with earlier versions of the 4B amplifier, so I'm used to the way the 26 handles the music, as both the 6 and 26 employ the same basic circuit layout. I've listened extensively to both the 26 and 17 using my STAX Lambda Pro headphones, The 17c might be a little laid back, but both are the classic "straight wire with a gain" preamps that let you hear the quality (or lack thereof) of the recordings. Neither one covers up the mistakes made in the control room or the pressings. "Warm and Liquid," they are not.
The Thiels are 4 ohm, but go down to 2.6 ohm in the circa 100-160 cps region. The 4Bs handle that without a problem, even at very loud volumes. At low volumes, IMO, the 4Bs are exceptional.
Disclaimers: My comments about the 4BSST2 amps are based on listening to my classical and organ CD collections. Further, I installed dedicated 20 amp circuits for each of the 4Bs. (I have an all-electric home.)
Have Fun auditioning those Brystons.
BTW: Jim Thiel was the person who introduced me to Bryston.
