Amps: Bryston vs Electrocompaniet

Wow! First of all, I want to thank everyone for taking the time to respond to my questions. I have read and thought a lot about each one and will continue to consider the various opinions. You didn't make my task any easier but one thought dominates and that is that the best decision will come if I can get some amps to my home for a preview. That may be difficult but I'm more determined than ever to try to do so. In case I ultimately fail to do that your comments on Electrocompaniet, Bryston, Sim Audio, and Plinius have definitely helped. The search continues but your responses have made it more interesting, challenging, and a lot more fun. Thanks again to all.

You should try Sim W5 or Eletrocomapniet and take the 7BST off your list. A audiophile buddy of mine used to own a pair of 7BST until the day he and I did the a/b between the W5 and 7BST right in my listening room. The W5 smoked the 7B in every way imaginable ie. speed, slam, weight etc. Obviously he sold the Bryston the next day and in process of ordering a W5 for himself. Good luck!

I would recommend you trying the Plinus SA100 MKIIIor the Electrocompaniet - they sound like the "real thing". Another possibility for you current loving speakers would be the Bear Labs Symphony No. 1. Good luck!! Jim

Both companies make excellent equipment, although Electrocompaniet gear probably gets the nod for better cosmetics. That said, Bryston gear is a fabulous buy for high-end gear. Bryston also builds Lexicon equipment, by the way, and their 20-year warranty and customer service reputation can't be beat. The Bryston 4B-ST is an extremely clean amp with excellent bass control and transparent mid-range. I am currently using the 4B-ST with my Vandy 3A Signatures and am delighted with the combo. If you decide to buy a Bryston, I suggest you contact Danny Oovlin who operates an Internet-based high-end audio company from Santa Clara, CA. I bought my 4B-ST from him and got an excellent price. He can be contacted by E-mail at: Bestofdeal@aol.com