Blew a channel on my Bryston 3B
Ok, so I just put my system back together after about 15 years in storage and being completely off the audiophile wagon. After about a week of using the system, the dreaded red light of death shows up on the front panel with a blown fuse. Changing the fuse was futile, on channel gave up the smoke.
So, I was going to eventually replace it anyway, as it always sounded a bit hard with my Apogee Duetta II's. Though I'm in touch with Bryston about the possibility of having it serviced.
So looking around, is it me or have prices gone insane?
Anyway, I'm willing to spend up to around $1500 for a replacement amp. I don't really want to deal with tubes, though I doubt I can find any tube amp in that range that'll drive the Apogees.
I'm open to suggestions as what brands to look for. I'm also open to fairly recent used models.
So, I was going to eventually replace it anyway, as it always sounded a bit hard with my Apogee Duetta II's. Though I'm in touch with Bryston about the possibility of having it serviced.
So looking around, is it me or have prices gone insane?
Anyway, I'm willing to spend up to around $1500 for a replacement amp. I don't really want to deal with tubes, though I doubt I can find any tube amp in that range that'll drive the Apogees.
I'm open to suggestions as what brands to look for. I'm also open to fairly recent used models.
16 responses Add your response
The Stratos looks very good on paper. I miss dealers though, nice to to and hear stuff, then even take one home for a week to try in the system. I see they have a money back guarantee, but they don’t really specify the fees upon return. Still, if it’s as good as it looks, it’s definitely something to consider. Thanks! |
I also lost the left channel on my 15+ year old Ayre AX-7e integrated amplifier. I contacted AYRE for a return authorization # and immediately shipped the unit to them for repair. Ayre repaired the amplifier and returned it at ZERO cost to me. Ayre Customer Service is excellent I suggest you contact Bryston and arrange to ship your Bryston 3B to them for repair. Of course, you can always look for another amplifier but you should first get a repair price quote from Bryston. |
@smodtactical
I did find the PS audio s300 and it looks like a good possibility. I have their 5.0 preamp and it's always been a very solid performer. The Bryston is a bit long in the tooth, I don't want a used amp that old, for obvious reasons. I'd prefer, if going used, to stay with much more recent units. Holy schiit! I am looking for a good amp, not a schiit amp :). Seriously, the Ragnarok probably won't work with my Apogees, they're super hungry, but the Vidar monoblocks look like a good possibility. I used to have a Norwegian Elkhound named Freya, does that mean I have to buy the preamp too? |
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For Apogees, the way to go is the H2O Audio S250 Signature. I had one running Scintillas briefly, then Duetta Sigs; beautiful combo and effortless. Henry (the designer, manufacturer) knows his stuff combining B&O modules with a huge linear power supply. The S250 is dual mono - two transformers, huge capacitor setup, nice power rating - 250W/500W, 8/4-ohm. Henry specifically designed it for running the 1-ohm Scintillas, Duettas are a piece of cake.. No connection to seller but there's one on US Audio Mart for $2K, new modules, new wiring, as new and re-done by Henry: https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649632070-h2o-audio-s250-signature-stereo-amplifier-updated/ If I still had Apogees I would jump on it. |
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Thanks again to everyone for their suggestions. I now have en route to my listening room a new PS Audio S300 and a demo Emotiva XSP-1 Gen 2. Both for just slightly over what I was willing to spend on a power amp. I'm excited, this is the first new equipment I've gotten in around 20 years, not counting my HT stuff.
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