2. amps-preamps
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Bryston's BP-26 vs 17 cubed

I’m curious if anyone has done a serious comparison of Bryston’s BP-26 and the 17 cubed? I have been demoing the 17 cubed for approx. 40 hours now. Previous preamp was Classe’ Sigma SSP. My other gear consists of Joseph Audio Pearl 20/20, Classe’ CAM-600, PS Audio Memory player and Directstream Senior. I like the 17 and will be demoing the 26 towards the end of the month. The 17 has a nice warmth to it without sounding too syrupy. From what I have gathered the 26 will have more punch towards the base mid-range, and perhaps more detail? I have narrowed it down to either of these two units, not interested in other preamp suggestions. If anyone can shed some insight into this it will be greatly appreciated.
jakesnak
gammonit_2000
83 posts
 
I have a used BP-26 and MPS-2 and really like them.  Sorry no comparison to the 17 cubed but I paid 2300 for the pair and are 10 years old with another 10 to go.  I don't want warmth in my gear I can put on a sweater if cold. 
jakesnak OP
176 posts
 
Thanks Gammonit, I'm looking forward in comparing the 2 units. I don't like an overly warm sound either. It sounds as though the 26 has incredible detail and transparency, which isn't such a bad thing. I won't have the 26 here for another few weeks, its being made at Bryston. I'll chime back when I can share the difference.What amp are you using with your 26? I have about 50 hours of listening so far on the 17 so I'll be able give both units a fair audition...John
gammonit_2000
83 posts
 
I am using the 7BSST2 monoblocks about 10 years old.  Previously I had the BP20 and 4BSST which sounded a little darker than the current set up.  My Infinity Kappa 8 speakers are very hard to drive so the more juice the better.  You may want to check out the DH Labs Air matrix interconnects.  I just love all their cables but those have been real winners with the locking phono plugs and open literally airy sound. 

Anyhoo as they say it will be interesting to hear your comparisons.  I'm sure the 17 is wonderful too I do wonder if the MPS2 is an improvement though over the 17 power supply.  Also the 17 can have an apparently nice phono stage added which is a plus depending on how proud Bryston is.  Their separate phono preamp is a bit pricey.
gammonit_2000
83 posts
 
Also kind of off topic, but I found it interesting that Gary @ Bryston suggested longer interconnects than speaker cable.
jakesnak OP
176 posts
 
Thanks Gammonit, For sure I'll post after I audition both units. I'm using Cardas Clear Reflection, and Cardas Jumpers  with my JA  Pearl 20/20. I'm using the Classe' Cam-600's, very good monoblocks. I was using the Classe' Sigma SSP for only 2 channel in Bypass, berfore I got this new preamp virus! I'm using Audioguest xlr for now, trying to spend where I can get the best sonic improvement. After the preamp, I need to get a grip! Talk about OCD! The 17 cubed that I have now has no phono stage, nor will the 26 that is coming. So eventually I will start in the vinyl direction. External phono stage, thinking Planar 8 with Alphetta 3 cartridge. What advice do you have with external phono pre's? John
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