2. amps-preamps
  3. 1058299797

Bryston Vs Theta

G'day all. I've just purchased a pair of Dynaudio Contour S5.4's (to replace my KEF Ref 3's) as part of an upgrade and looking for a new amp to drive them. Tossing up between a Theta Dreadnaught 2 and a Bryston 6BSST(LCR)/3BSST(rear) combo (price almost the same here) for my system which is used 50:50 HT/music. Customer service at dealers is a major problem here in Hong Kong (they expect you to buy a $6000 piece of equipment without even listening to it!), so the best I've been able to do is hear these amps with Focus Audio speakers (Theta seemed to have bigger soundstage, but Bryston had better bass control). Must say the Bryston Rep here has been extremely helpful, but can't organise a direct comparison. Any comments welcome.
busdriver

Showing 2 responses by mick3af0

mick3af0
7 posts
 
G'day Busdriver

I have auditioned the S25's but have found the bass boomy. I cannot place them too far out into my room. The treble from the Esotar 2 was great! In contrast, when I heard the S3.4 in a similar placement, there was no boom at all. The dealer then placed the S25's far out into the room and it was a great sound.

How much are the S3.4's in HK? Also, how much do you feel I am missing out by getting the S3.4's instead of something with the Esotar 2? I am currently using speakers with metal dome tweeters which I find fatiguing. I have heard others mention that the Esotar 2 may be too revealing on less than fine recordings. I listen to a lot of harmon muted Miles Davis and do not want ear bleed from shrill treble, which was why I asked for your opinion on the S5.4 vs. the S3.4.
mick3af0
7 posts
 
Hi Busdriver

I gather you are from Oz with your G'day greeting.

Did you get your S5.4 from Excel? Also, how did you find they compare to the S3.4?

I was considering the S5.4 but that is simply too tall for my room and so have revised it to the S3.4. I heard them over the weekend at a friend's place and was rather surprised by the harsh treble I heard, although he was driving them with a low wattage tube amp.

Any thoughts?
More to discover