I just got a later model BP-20 with the BP-PSR power supply. I would agree that it is a warm pre, tilted to the low mids, but in a very smooth and even handed way. I quite like the presentation. I did not expect to like it as much as my EAR 864. In fact, I found it more satisfying for long listens. The longer I listened the more I liked it. The EAR could be characterized in contrast as having a stronger upper mid response. It’s a little clearer as a result.
The Bryston was the most noise free preamp I have ever heard. Not a hint of noise. Deep black backgrounds. Bass was very deep, clear and nimble. High frequencies sparkled and soared. Quite beautiful and reminiscent of early Mark Levinson.
I suspect that the recessed high mids were designed into the pre to offset the aggressive highs of the matching Bryston amplifiers of the time. The 4B, 4BSST and 4BST.
I got this pre for very little. It had some of the labeling worn off, so I got it for a song. I plan to recap it. Perhaps relabel it for fun, get a little creative. It’s got me thinking a lot more about Bryston and what I have been missing all these years.
My current question is, should I buy an amp that is it’s contemporary. I could get one of those pretty cheap. Maybe a 4B SST. Or should I get the new 4B3? For a lot more money. Hmmmmm.
Either way, consider me very impressed with this old $385 bargain. And inspired.