Bryston
BHA-1 Balanced Headphone Amp
$2,495.00 USDAdvancing Bryston's tradition of unmatched audio performance and functionality, the Bryston BHA-1 balanced headphone amplifier delivers the finest listening experience across a vast array of headphone types. Functionally a miniature power amplifier, the BHA-1 incorporates robust design elements that have made Bryston's full-sized amps legendary worldwide.
Unique to the BHA-1, six Class A, fully discrete operational amplifiers generate up to 2 watts of power, providing exceptional dynamic range and clarity. The amplifier offers both balanced outputs and single-ended outputs, accommodating traditional headphones. Additionally, a pair of rear-mounted XLR outputs allow the BHA-1 to function as a high-quality analog preamplifier.
Engineered for versatility and precision, the BHA-1 is perfect for audiophiles seeking the highest quality sound. Whether you are using high-impedance studio headphones or more sensitive consumer models, the BHA-1 ensures that you hear every detail your headphones have to offer. By powering your headphones with the Bryston BHA-1, you unlock their full potential, experiencing music with remarkable depth and nuance. Experience the best in headphone amplification with Bryston’s BHA-1, and discover a new level of audio fidelity and performance. Features switchable faceplates. Connect to your favorite source (DAC, CD player, music streamers, Home audio/home theater setup) for the best headphone listening experience.
Dragon Cable Recommendation: We recommend pairing the Bryston BHA-1 Balanced Headphone Amplifier with our popular Silver Dragon Interconnect. Sold in Pairs, the Silver Dragon V2 is our top-of-the-line silver conductor-based interconnect. With a braided geometry and amazing shielding, this interconnect is a remarkable solution where noise isolation is key. Get the best cables for your best audio gear.
Unveil the Full Potential of Your Headphones
The Bryston BHA-1 is a compact yet powerful headphone amplifier designed to unveil the full potential of your headphones with authoritative sound quality and impeccable clarity. This dedicated headphone amplifier delivers ample power with low distortion and superb dynamics, allowing your headphones to render even the most subtle nuances and micro-details with stunning accuracy.
With its robust construction and meticulous engineering, the BHA-1 is perfectly suited for high-fidelity headphone systems and optimizing your headphones' performance potential. Its low-distortion circuitry, combined with ample headroom, allows your headphones to reproduce the depth and warmth of the original source with a natural, lifelike presentation.
Bryston's specialized headphone amplifier topology provides your headphones the power and headroom required to fully resolve the musical depth and harmonic textures while maintaining superb transient response and resolution. This specialized amplifier design ensures that your headphones achieve their highest fidelity – revealing every sonic nuance, micro-detail, and the full intensity of the musical experience with pristine clarity and lifelike realism.
Leveraging over 50 years of Bryston's audio expertise, the BHA-1 delivers the pure, uncompromising sonic performance and lifelike presentation that allows you to fully experience your music as it was meant to be heard. From soaring crescendos to the most delicate and nuanced whispers, the BHA-1 allows you to savor your music with every ounce of dimensionality, tonality, and lifelike presence – a revelation of unadulterated depth, dynamics, and clarity that must be experienced to be truly appreciated.
Moon Audio manufactures a complete line of headphone cables available for your balanced and single-ended connections with your high-end headphones.
High-End Balanced Design
Bryston is bringing the concept of balanced power amplification to headphone amplification, leveraging the inherent benefits of this design approach. Balanced power amplifiers do not draw speaker currents from the circuit ground, ensuring that the ground reference remains clean and stable, especially when higher power demands are present. Balanced amplifier outputs can never be grounded, and most headphones currently available connect the low sides of their speakers together and attach them to the shield or ground pin using a stereo 1/4" plug.
Bryston offers a simple solution to this issue. By modifying the 1/4" connector to either two 3-pin XLR connectors or a single 4-pin XLR connector, users can take advantage of the balanced amplifier design. Continuing Bryston's tradition of unmatched audio performance and functionality, the BHA-1 Balanced Headphone Amplifier is designed as a reference amplifier solution for delivering the finest listening experience from your headphones. The BHA-1 is compatible with both traditional single-ended headphone designs and balanced headphones, catering to a wide range of audio setups.
The Bryston BHA-1 takes advantage of the significant benefits of balanced dual-mono amplifier designs, which are inherently clean and stable, especially when higher power demands or challenging loads are present. The advantage of powering each headphone driver (right and left) with two amplifiers configured in a balanced or series mode is a doubling of the signal voltage delivered to each speaker. This design configuration has been the foundation of Bryston's legendary 7B, 14B, and 28B amplifiers, and now headphone users can experience the same dramatic resolution from the BHA-1.
A Refined Process for the Seasoned Audiophile
The Bryston BHA-1 Balanced Headphone Amplifier is a testament to the company's unwavering commitment to using only the highest quality components and meticulous construction techniques. Like every Bryston product, the BHA-1 is hand-assembled with premium components, ensuring exceptional sound quality and long-lasting performance.
One of the standout features of the BHA-1 is the premium Noble Stereo Volume control, which is exceptionally quiet and laser-trimmed for precision. This advanced volume control allows for precise adjustments, enabling you to fine-tune the listening experience to your preferences. The BHA-1 also utilizes six fully discrete 'Class A' Bryston operational amplifiers, renowned for their exceptional purity and lifelike sound reproduction. These operational amplifiers contribute to the amplifier's ability to deliver a transparent and natural audio presentation, unveiling the subtlest nuances and details within your music.
In addition to the advanced volume control, the sleek and ultra-clean front panel features left and right balance controls, as well as a gain selection switch that allows you to choose between 14 dB or 20 dB of gain. This flexibility ensures optimal performance with a wide range of headphones and listening preferences. To further enhance the BHA-1's performance, Bryston has equipped it with a very low-noise internal power supply, designed to extract every last bit of potential from this impressive headphone amplifier. For those seeking an additional upgrade, the BHA-1 is compatible with Bryston's MPS-2 external power supply, which replaces the internal supply and provides an even higher level of performance.
Recognizing that most headphones are not balanced devices, Bryston has thoughtfully included a traditional unbalanced 1⁄4" connection on the BHA-1, in addition to connections for balanced headphones. The balanced outputs consist of four-pin stereo and dual left/right three-pin outputs, catering to a variety of headphone configurations. Thanks to its powerful design, the BHA-1 boasts multiple headphone drive capability, allowing you to share the exceptional listening experience with an audiophile friend. Bryston's commitment to quality extends beyond just component selection and construction techniques. Each and every Bryston product undergoes a rigorous quality control "burn-in" procedure, which quickly "matures" the components and weeds out any potential premature failures. This extensive burn-in process ensures reliable and trouble-free performance for many years to come, preventing any unit-to-unit variance that can result from mass-produced products.
Recommendations
Drew Recommends the Audeze LCD-2 Headphones paired with the Silver Dragon V3 Headphone Cable as an excellent pairing with the Bryston BHA-1 Balanced Headphone Amplifier.
The BHA-1 is one of Drew's favorites for a desktop headphone amplifier that's high in sound quality and affordable.
"A High Quality Noble volume control and the ability to drive headphones through standard quarter-inch single-ended outputs or balanced via dual XLRs means you can grow with the BHA-1 as your headphone arsenal expands. And the sound? That's why it's our Product of the Year."
— Tone Audio 1/4/13
About Bryston Amps and Speakers:
Bryston is a leading manufacturer of high-performance audio equipment based in Ontario, Canada, renowned for its powerful and accurate amplifiers and speakers that deliver stunning sound quality. They have been designing and manufacturing state-of-the-art electronics for consumer and audio professional markets for more than 50 years. Since the debut of its first amplifier in 1973, Bryston has grown its product line to encompass a range of world-renowned Amplifiers, Loudspeakers, and Digital Audio Components. Each of Bryston's hand-assembled products is extensively tested before shipment. From their state-of-the-art solid-state amplifiers to innovative products like the Bryston 4B, BDA-3.14, BDP series, Cubed series, and the legendary Bryston 20, their amplifiers, phono preamplifiers, conditioners, and stereo power amplifiers are engineered to extract every nuance from audio sources, revealing details and dynamics that other amplifiers struggle to reproduce. Bryston's extensive lineup of amplifiers spans from compact powerhouses to massively powerful monoblock amplifiers designed to drive the most demanding speakers and subwoofers. Their amplifiers are revered for their ability to deliver a stunningly realistic and immersive soundstage with thunderous dynamics and jaw-dropping accuracy.
From their state-of-the-art solid-state power amps and headphone amplifiers (BHA-1) to innovative products like the Bryston 4B, BDA-3.14, Cubed series, and the legendary Bryston 20, their amplifiers, phono preamplifiers, conditioners, and stereo power amplifiers are engineered to extract every nuance from audio sources, revealing details and dynamics that other amplifiers struggle to reproduce. Bryston's extensive lineup of amplifiers spans from compact powerhouses to massively powerful monoblock amplifiers designed to drive the most demanding speakers and subwoofers. Their amplifiers are revered for their ability to deliver a stunningly realistic and immersive soundstage with thunderous dynamics and jaw-dropping accuracy.
Beyond just sheer power, Bryston's amplifiers (like the Bryston BP series and the Bryston 3B) are engineered with meticulous attention to detail, incorporating cutting-edge technologies and innovative features that elevate audio quality and performance to new heights. From warm, natural soundstages to precise imaging and crystal-clear clarity, Bryston amplifiers provide an unparalleled listening experience. Bryston's flagship amplifiers, like the mighty 28XO, showcase the company's dedication to crafting products that push the boundaries of audio fidelity. These behemoths are purpose-built to unleash the full potential of high-resolution audio sources, unveiling every intricate detail and nuance with uncompromising accuracy and transparency.
Bryston's top-of-the-line amps and speakers stand as titans of the audio world, delivering ground-shaking power and dynamics that transcend the capabilities of traditional amps and speakers. From studio-grade recordings to heart-pounding cinematic scores, these titans lay bare the true depth and intensity of source material, unveiling details and dynamics that lesser amplifiers would fail to reproduce. Whether concert-level bass and ponderous lows, or staggering transients and searing crescendos, Bryston redefines the limits of what is possible, delivering performance, power, and dynamics that push the boundaries of amplification and loudspeaker tech while defining new standards for what can be achieved. The perfect addition to your high-end DAC, preamp, bookshelf speakers (like the Mini A and Mini T), Bryston loudspeakers, headphone amplifiers, preamps, and more are perfect for any audiophile setup.
Bryston offers an incredible 20-year warranty on its analog audio products and loudspeakers (five years on digital products and cables). Based in Peterborough, Ontario, Canada, Bryston products are sold through over 150 dealers in North America and 60 countries worldwide. Discover why Bryston is one of the most venerated high-end audio brands in the world and learn more about the products.
Features
- 3 stereo inputs: RCA, XLR, and 3.5mm TRS
- Fully Class A discrete operational amplifiers.
- Low distortion, high power output
- Balanced output
- Switchable gain
- Fully convection cooled means no noisy fans
- Machined and anodized aluminum enclosure and dress panel
- Legendary Bryston 20 Year Warranty
What's in the Box?
- BHA-1 Headphone Amplifier
- Power Cable
- Manual and Warranty
FAQ
What makes the Bryston BHA-1 unique compared to other headphone amplifiers?
The Bryston BHA-1 stands out due to its six Class A, fully discrete operational amplifiers, which generate up to 2 watts of power. This design provides exceptional dynamic range and clarity, making it suitable for a wide range of headphones, from high-impedance studio models to sensitive consumer types. Its robust design elements are inspired by Bryston's legendary full-sized amplifiers.
What types of outputs does the Bryston BHA-1 offer?
The BHA-1 offers both balanced and single-ended outputs to accommodate different types of headphones. Additionally, it features a pair of rear-mounted XLR outputs, allowing it to function as a high-quality analog preamplifier, providing greater flexibility in audio setups.
Can the Bryston BHA-1 be used as a preamplifier?
Yes, the Bryston BHA-1 can be used as a high-quality hi-fi analog preamp thanks to its rear-mounted XLR outputs. This feature enables users to integrate the BHA-1 into a larger audio system, enhancing its versatility.
How does the Bryston BHA-1 improve headphone performance?
The BHA-1's design, featuring six Class A, fully discrete operational amplifiers, provides up to 2 watts of power, ensuring exceptional dynamic range and clarity. This amplification allows headphones to perform at their best, revealing subtle details and providing a richer listening experience.
Is the Bryston BHA-1 compatible with all headphone types?
The Bryston BHA-1 is designed to be compatible with a vast array of headphone types, including high-impedance studio headphones and more sensitive consumer models. Its powerful and versatile output options ensure optimal performance regardless of the headphones used.
What are the key specifications of the Bryston BHA-1?
Key specifications of the Bryston BHA-1 include six Class A, fully discrete operational amplifiers, up to 2 watts of power output, balanced and single-ended headphone outputs, and rear-mounted XLR outputs for preamplifier functionality. These features combine to provide exceptional audio quality and versatility.
How does the Bryston BHA-1 enhance the listening experience?
The Bryston BHA-1 enhances the listening experience by delivering exceptional dynamic range, clarity, and power through its high-quality Class A amplifiers. This results in a more immersive and detailed audio experience, allowing users to fully appreciate their music.
Does the Bryston BHA-1 support balanced audio connections?
Yes, the Bryston BHA-1 supports balanced audio connections, offering balanced outputs for headphones and XLR outputs for use as a preamplifier. This support for balanced connections ensures high-quality, noise-free audio performance.
Technical Details
Optional: MPS-2 power supply also available (replaces internal supply)
dual left/right 3-pin outputs
- Balanced Dual mono circuitry
- High Quality Noble Stereo Volume control – laser trimmed
- Left/Right Balance Control
- 6 Fully discrete Class A Bryston operational amplifiers
- 14dB or 20dB of selectable gain available
- All input and output connectors are Gold plated
- 10k input impedance
- Multiple headphone drive capability
Performance
- Harmonic distortion
- Less than .003 at 32 ohms at 100mW 20Hz to 20KHz.
- IM Distortion
- Less than 001%
- Signal-to-Noise
- Greater than 105 dB
- Frequency Response
- 20 to 20 KHz plus or minus .1dB
- Hi-Z Load
- 20 Volts into 600 ohms (667mW) at 001% THD + N at 20-20K
- Low-Z Load
- 4 volts into 32 ohms (500 mW) at 001% THD + N at 20-20K
Measurements
Single Ended Input @ 1V
Distortion Measured 20Hz to 20 kHz
- LOAD 600 OHMS
- GAIN HI - 10.9V OUT @ 001% POWER 200 mW
- GAIN LO - 5.45 V OUT @ 001% POWER 50 mW
- GAIN LO - 2.50 V OUT @ 001% POWER 10 mW
- GAIN LO - 788m V OUT @ 001%* POWER 1 mW
- LOAD 300 OHMS
- GAIN HI - 10.8 V OUT @ 001% POWER 390 mW
- GAIN LO - 5.40 V OUT @ 001% POWER 50 mW
- GAIN LO - 1.79 V OUT @ 001% POWER 10 mW
- GAIN LO - 583 mV OUT @ 001%* POWER 1 mW
- LOAD 80 OHMS
- GAIN HI - 10.4 V OUT @ 002% POWER 1.35 W
- GAIN LO - 5.20 V OUT @ 001% POWER 383 mW
- GAIN LO - 887 mV OUT @ 001% POWER 10 mW
- GAIN LO - 345 mV OUT @ 003%* POWER 1 mW
- LOAD 32 OHMS
- GAIN HI - 9.65 V OUT @ 0.150% POWER 2.9 W - onset of clipping
- GAIN LO - 4.84 V OUT @ 002% POWER 732 mW
- GAIN LO - 578 mV OUT @ 001%* POWER 10 mW
- GAIN LO - 185 m V OUT @ 005%* POWER 1 mW
- GAIN LO - 4.00 V OUT @ 001% POWER 500 mW - rated output
*= 80 KHZ FILTER, mW = milliwatt, W = watt, mV = millivolt, V = volt