2. amps-preamps
  3. 1140194622

Bryston B60

I am in the market for a int amp in the low to mid $1k range. When I went to a local shop, they had a Bryston B60, with MM phono stage and remote for $1,700. I called another dealer in the area and he quoted me $2,100k for a new one (w/o remote).

I have 2 questions:

1) I have seen a couple of 6-9 yr old B60's on audiogon for ~$800. Is there any difference between those and one that is 2 yeras old? I'm thinking I'm justified in offering 1.5k for the 2 yr old one at my dealer, no?

2) What other brands do others suggest, new or used.?

I know there's alot out there and its all up to my ears in making a decision. I listen to all types of music, rock, electronic, jazz, classical on CD and vinyl. I'm bringing my speakers (Signet floorstanding) to the dealer to hear the B60 soon(it was out on loan ot the time). At the shop on my initial visit I listed to some Rotel's and NAD's ($1,200 and $900). That was all they had in my price range. I didn't like the Rotel stuff, lsitened to a CD player too ... a little too bright to my ears. And I listed to everythign on $3k BW bookshelves, wish I had money for those too right now :)

THere are two other hi-fi dealers within driving distance. They carry Creek (5320, 1.5k), Music Fidelity, Arcam, Linn, a used Music Hall Mambo for 1k.

I'm also looking for a CD player, new or used, $500-1000. The dealer I went to had the Rega Planet for $900. Anything from Brands above I should consider?

Thanks!
sandman012
eldarado
381 posts
 
Look at the Rega Apollo new for $1k for the CDP. Most dealers are blowing out the Planets and Jupiters since they are now discontinued.

Look at the Sim Audio I-3 or I-5 used. $1950 for a used I-5 is too much IMHO. The I-3's go for around $1k and the I-5's go for about $1.5k.

If you are sensitive to brightness, you might consider other speakers than B&W's when you upgrade.
eagleman6722
217 posts
 
Eastern Electric minimax for $900. Tubes come with EH 6922's. Some excellent reviews of this CD player..
rtilbury
39 posts
 
If I were you I would get the free 60 day trial for the Portal Panache. Or just buy the demo unit Joe offers, which I think has a 30 day return... The portal to me is a better buy then the Bryston, and also offers the headphone output. Then try picking up the Rega Apollo and you will have a wonderful sounding system that will definitely not be "bright".
rockadanny
1,225 posts
 
For CDP I'd also check out the Opera Audio Consonance 120 if you want new, or the Consonance Reference 2.2 if you don't mind used. I have the Reference 2.2 and am very pleased with its build and sound.
mcfavre4
85 posts
 
I have owned several B60Rs and infact owned Signet SL280 B/Us when I bought the first unit in 1998. The match was very nice. I also owned a newer B60R and it retains much of the same character of the original with possibly a bit more headroom, bass may be a bit tighter also. Transparency seems similar but they weren't compared side by side. Either unit sounds great. It's used value is great as you will still have a warranty. I now own the B100SST. I am a big fan.
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