Reprint of
HOME THEATER (HEIMKINO)

April/May 2001

BRYSTON SP1
BRYSTON 9BST

"Therefore our verdict is: Reference Class"
Olaf Sturm

On to new Heights
This Canadian Amplifier Specialty Company has expanded its line with its SP1 Processor/Preamplifier. This new unit is the ideal partner for the 9BST Five Channel Amplifier. In no way can this combination be considered the underdog from a visual perspective, rather the ears of viewers should be opened. Do these two units as a composite reach a new form of synergy?

Times were great when music listeners who had come of age were still among themselves. Then no one discussed the number of channels and picture quality was taboo. In conspiring circles all night diligent comparisons were conducted between different components, with the goal of discovering the finest sounding unit. Once a year one held a classroom meeting in a Frankfurt (Germany) hotel. Yes, that had allure. But then! Someone had the glorious idea to build a DVD Player. At that time no one foresaw that two channel Armageddon was coming. From now on everything was in motion because suddenly the source delivered, including software, six channels in order to support a visual signal. It is the same feeling as if one is being transported from the first to the last row. Consequently the manufacturer of quality sound equipment now has two alternatives: First, he sticks to his ideals of two channel reproduction and thus stands aside out of the mainstream. Or, secondly, he develops multi-channel components, which are of such high quality that they convince music lovers, and amaze the people who are use to what is normally heard from their TV screen, so they will be glad to invest a few more marks (dollars) in order to obtain the superior sound quality. Because after all they have to fork over 21.000 Marks ($9,545 US) for this duo. Are they worth this amount?

The Processor.

They thought about it for a long time in the design engineering department at Bryston. How does an ideal Processor/Preamplifier look? Who will buy it, because we only enjoy an excellent reputation in audiophile and professional circles? Is there only one approach or the other? No! Already the first glance "under the hood" of the SP1 creates amazement. What is the analog Alps pot doing there? Very simple. For conventional two channel reproduction the SP1 transforms itself into a "super clean" audiophile Preamplifier. The signal during analog operation does not pass through a single integrated circuit. Classy, because thus it is also superbly equipped for listening to prevailing kinds of music. After the selected potentiometer is a small converter, which during digital use of the processor simply converts the set volume. "Thus killing two birds with one stone." Logically there are also two transformers, one for the digital domain, and one for the analog domain. Bryston also chose the safe side for the circuit board layout, and thus the main digital circuit board is removable and can be readily exchanged. And by means of the "building block construction" another circuit board can be added. The electrical components are superb - massive, not diminutive, was the order of the day. The circuitry is designed complimentary symmetrical and maintained all the way to the XLR output jacks.

Fortunately six RCA and six XLR balanced output jacks are available, something that is truly rare. The jacks are gold plated silver, because that has proven to be an audible advantage. Six analog inputs, four of which have digital coaxial capability, are provided. Additionally one can chose between two less recommended Toslink inputs or the perfect AES/EBU interface. When the SP1 receives a digital signal it can distinguish between PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Pro-logic, DTS, and THX formats, and switches automatically to the correct format. Although the unit does not incorporate direct video signal switching, it can be operated by an external source through an RS-232 connection. With the assistance of two so called "trigger outputs" the output stage can be automatically turned on, or, for example, a motor driven screen can be activated.

"The Power Plant."

The matching 9BST amplifier incorporates five separate symmetrical amplifier modules. The abbreviation "ST" are the initials of Stuart Taylor whose know-how plays a leading role in the development of Bryston's amplifier technology. Each module delivers a whopping 215 watts into four ohms, which means that even inefficient speakers can readily be driven. Connections to the speakers are made by means of massive screw type terminals. The 9BST amplifier can receive the signal from the Processor through a balanced XLR type jack, or an unbalanced RCA type jack, selection of either is made by means of a small switch. The faceplate incorporates, besides an On/Off switch, five green LEDs, which indicate proper operation, but if the incoming signal contains too much distortion they will switch to red for a short time. However during normal use this will hardly ever happen.

Both components make a very rugged impression, which is reflected as a clearly visible sign of the 20 year warranty. It is unprecedented!

Setup and Connections.

This combination proves that complicated technology does not automatically imply difficult installation. Nevertheless a few items should be observed: The components should be placed on a stable surface, for example a shelf from "Phonosophie" (a German manufacturer). The supplied, phase marked, line cords deserve an equally good power outlet, so that even here no audible potential is lost.

We made the digital connection between the Proceed DVD reference player and the SP1 Processor coaxially. Based on listening experience, the connections to the amplifier were chosen to be symmetrical. The setup of the JM Lab loudspeaker surround system was very simple with a sound level meter. Now there was no obstacle to the performance.

Sound.

We started the session with the comedy "The Bride, Who Lacks Confidence." (Runaway Bride) During normal volume level picture and sound merged into a "movie like" harmony with not the least bit of stress, the first sign of perfect teamwork. The voice reproduction was natural, and as soon as the pictures were accompanied by music, one could literally feel one's own relaxation. That is exactly the way it should be! The Canadian duo dealt quite differently with Stallone's "Cliffhanger." Naturally we turned the volume level up to "Action." Now the muscles of the 9BST amplifier flexed vigorously, but astonishingly, even at this volume level no nervousness or misbehavior occurred. The comparison with smaller amplifiers and processors could hardly be greater, and the words "dissimilar sound" do not do justice to the differences. The Bryston combination plays in a loftier league, both in respect to the size and the naturalness of the sound picture, and also in the ease with which it handles the transition between delicate acoustic details and massive passages. Truly every Mark (dollar) here is sensibly invested.

Summary.

With this combination Bryston effortlessly reaches new multi-channel heights! Therefore our verdict is: Reference Class. He or she who believes that a good picture is enough, should learn from this combination. The authentic combination of picture and sound leads to the desirable synergy. The audible portion is covered 100% by the SP1 and 9BST combination, at least for 20 years!

Translated from the German by Peter Ullman

We invite you to experience the Bryston SST² Series amplifiers

20 Year Warranty - A Generation of Music