Bryston
BR-20 Preamplifier
$6,795.00 USDFeatures
2 ea. balanced outputs
All-new fully discrete Class A analog circuitry
XLR pair configurable as variable or fixed output
Independent power supply for analog and digital circuits
Relay switching on all inputs
Programmable theater bypass feature
Software control and balanced action volume control
Included high-res DAC up to PCM 384 kHz / 32 bit and DSD x 4
Digital Inputs include 2 ea. AES/EBU, TOSLINK, S/PDIF (RCA) and 1 ea. USB
Included high resolution streamer plays back virtually any file format at native resolution
Control entire system using intuitive webUI on a smartphone, tablet, or computer
Low Z headphone amplifier is a dedicated headphone circuit capable of powering even difficult-to-drive headphones
What's in the Box?
Warranty
"Our most exquisite representation of musicality ever. The BR-20 is a fitting tribute to our late dear friend and colleague Brian Russell."
-The Team at Bryston Ltd.
The BR-20 stands as Bryston's most advanced preamplifier, seamlessly integrating cutting-edge analog and digital technologies. It combines the acclaimed BDA-3 DAC with an updated BDP streaming platform, delivering exceptional digital performance from both built-in and external sources. The unit features an enhanced internal headphone amplifier, boasting increased power and lower output impedance to effortlessly drive even demanding headphones. For vinyl enthusiasts and those seeking expanded connectivity, the BR-20 offers Bryston's finest phono preamp and a new HDMI card as optional upgrades.
Bryston aptly describes the BR-20 as "a front-end solution that combines the best of Bryston's technologies into one ultra-high-performance audiophile hub." This versatile device truly lives up to that description, offering features and connectivity to satisfy the most demanding modern audiophile. It accommodates up to 14 analog and digital source components while providing high-resolution built-in streaming capabilities. From its best-ever built-in headphone amplifier to optional phono inputs for vinyl playback and 4K HDMI inputs supporting DSD and A/V connectivity, the BR-20 is engineered for near-universal source compatibility. Bryston's innovative analog circuitry, designed specifically for the BR-20, achieves the lowest noise and distortion measurements in the company's history. The preamplifier comes equipped with the BR-4 remote and offers RS232 and network connectivity, ensuring extensive control options for seamless integration into any high-end audio setup.
Dragon Cable Recommendation: We recommend pairing the Bryston BP-20 Preamplifier DAC 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.
INSPIRATION
Bryston has explored the potential of combining cutting-edge technologies into a single, high-performance unit. The result is a device that integrates a state-of-the-art analog preamplifier with Bryston's award-winning digital-to-analog conversion circuitry and bit-perfect high-resolution streaming capabilities, all housed in a single chassis. This innovative approach raises intriguing questions about audio performance and system design: Can this integrated solution outperform separate components? Is it possible to achieve world-class sound with a simplified setup? Does this design offer audiophiles the opportunity to streamline their equipment while upgrading overall system performance?
Bryston's aim with this concept is to challenge traditional notions of high-end audio setups, potentially offering a more compact yet sonically superior alternative to conventional multi-component systems.
EXECUTION & DESIGN
Years of R&D have resulted in a new discrete operational amplifier from Bryston that outperforms all previous designs. Each BR-20 measures at or below 0.0006% THD+N—an exceptionally low number giving music incredible room to breathe. Bryston combined the excellent BDA-3 DAC with an updated BDP streaming platform into the system to deliver the best possible digital performance from the built-in player, or any digital source of choice. Bryston also updated the internal headphone amplifier to have more power and lower output impedance to effortlessly power even difficult loads. Additionally, Bryston offers the best phono preamp and an all-new HDMI card as options for even greater flexibility in the system. Bryston can confidently state that the new BR-20 is the best preamp Bryston has ever produced.
Analog Circuits
Bryston's extensive research and development efforts have culminated in a groundbreaking analog preamp section for the BR-20, featuring a fully-balanced design. The new fully discrete operational amplifier from Bryston outperforms previous versions in general noise floor and common mode rejection. Custom analog circuitry designed specifically for the BR-20 yields the lowest noise and distortion measurements in Bryston's history. For listeners, this translates to more lifelike performances, increased detail retrieval, and enhanced dimensionality from recordings.
The BR-20 employs a fully analog volume control, with a ring of LED lights around the knob indicating the output level. It offers comprehensive connectivity options, supporting up to 14 sources to meet diverse user needs. The preamp accommodates two balanced and two unbalanced analog sources simultaneously. For vinyl enthusiasts, an optional high-precision MM (moving magnet) phono stage, equivalent to Bryston's outboard BP-2, is available as an internal upgrade. Dual balanced outputs enable users to drive multiple amplifiers or subwoofers. Additionally, an optional HDMI card can be integrated for expanded functionality. This combination of features and performance advancements in the BR-20 represents Bryston's commitment to pushing the boundaries of audio excellence, offering audiophiles a new benchmark in preamp design and versatility.
Digital Circuits
The BR-20 showcases Bryston's most advanced digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and streaming music player, ensuring optimal performance from any source. It offers access to high-resolution content from up to seven external sources, an internal digital music player with TIDAL and Qobuz streaming capabilities (subscriptions required), and four optional HDMI sources. At the heart of the BR-20 lies the flagship BDA-3 DAC, capable of decoding PCM up to 384kHz/24 bit and DSD 256 (DSD x4). This powerful DAC not only enhances the sound of older digital source components but also provides the high-resolution capabilities and interconnectivity demanded by modern devices.
The BR-20's built-in bit-perfect digital music player excels in managing large music libraries, thanks to its gigabit Ethernet connection, increased RAM, and USB 3.0 connectivity for external music storage. This player seamlessly passes PCM up to 384 kHz and DSD 128 to the DAC, ensuring pristine audio quality. Building upon the foundation of the Bryston BDA-3.14, which combines a digital preamp, DAC, and Bryston's BDP-Pi, the BR-20 takes a significant leap forward. It upgrades to a faster Raspberry Pi 4 with more RAM, enhanced processing power, gigabit Ethernet, and USB 3.0 connectivity. For the listener, these improvements translate to a smoother user experience and superior handling of extensive music libraries, solidifying the BR-20's position as a cutting-edge digital audio powerhouse.
SACD and HDMI
The BR-20 offers advanced digital audio capabilities with its optional HDMI card. This feature enables the decoding of DSD (Direct Stream Digital) signals over HDMI, allowing users to connect compatible SACD (Super Audio CD) players directly to the BR-20. This connection method can significantly enhance sound quality for SACD playback.
Furthermore, the HDMI functionality extends the BR-20's versatility in integrated audio-visual setups. Users can connect 4K and HDR (High Dynamic Range) sources, such as Apple TV and Blu-Ray players, directly to the BR-20. This feature is particularly beneficial for audio enthusiasts who share their audio system space with a TV or home theater setup.The BR-20 is designed to pass through high-resolution video signals to a connected monitor or display, ensuring that video quality is maintained while benefiting from the unit's superior audio processing. This combination of high-end audio capabilities and video pass-through makes the BR-20 an ideal centerpiece for both dedicated audio systems and more comprehensive home entertainment setups.
Control
The BR-20's extensive input options have prompted Bryston to develop a comprehensive control system that goes beyond traditional button interfaces. Included with the unit is the BR-4 remote control, complemented by RS232 and network connectivity options, providing users with a wide array of control possibilities. The elegant front panel of the BR-20 features customizable source buttons, which are mirrored on the handheld remote. These can be configured to command any desired source component, offering a personalized user experience. Furthermore, the BR-20 supports smartphone and tablet control, allowing users to change sources, adjust balance, and modify volume remotely.
Bryston has incorporated several user-friendly features to enhance the BR-20's functionality. Users can rename inputs and hide unused ones for a streamlined interface. A ring of small LED lights surrounds the volume knob, clearly displaying the output level, with the option to dim these lights if desired. Each digital input can be programmed to respond to a specific front panel button, remote button, and given a custom name for easy recall. This flexible control system ensures that the BR-20 can be easily integrated into any audio setup, providing intuitive operation and a tailored user experience that matches individual preferences and system configurations. The combination of customizable controls, remote access, and user-friendly features makes the BR-20 a versatile and powerful centerpiece for sophisticated audio systems.
New High-Power Headphone Amp
The BR-20 features Bryston's most powerful onboard headphone amp ever. This Low Z amp has a low output impedance (less than 5 Ohms) to drive even the most power-hungry headphones. The clarity and dynamic capability in this headphone amp are second only to Bryston's own BHA-1 outboard headphone amplifier.
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
- 4 ultra-pure analog inputs -- two RCA, two XLR. One RCA input is an optional MM phono preamp - 2 ea. balanced and single-ended inputs
- 2 ea. balanced outputs
- All-new fully discrete Class A analog circuitry
- XLR pair configurable as variable or fixed output
- Independent power supply for analog and digital circuits
- Relay switching on all inputs
- Programmable theater bypass feature
- Software control and balanced action volume control
- Included high-res DAC up to PCM 384 kHz / 32 bit and DSD x 4
- Digital Inputs include 2 ea. AES/EBU, TOSLINK, S/PDIF (RCA) and 1 ea. USB
- Included high resolution streamer plays back virtually any file format at native resolution
- Control entire system using intuitive webUI on a smartphone, tablet, or computer
- Low Z headphone amplifier is a dedicated headphone circuit capable of powering even difficult-to-drive headphones
- LED ring around volume control indicates loudness and can be easily seen from your listening position.
- The fully balanced analog section is an exquisite example of elegant engineering resulting in crystal-clear playback.
- Never forget your source assignments again. Program each digital input to respond to a front panel button, remote button, and even give it a custom name!
Options
- Silver or black faceplate
- 17” or 19” faceplate (non-rack mountable)
- Internal 4 input, 1 output HDMI card is 4K HDR compatible. Can also receive DSD over HDMI
- Internal MM Phono Stage (replaces 1 RCA analog input)
What's in the Box?
- BR-20 Preamplifier DAC
- BR-4 Remote Control
- Power Cable
- Manual and Warranty
FAQ
What are the key features of the Bryston BR-20?
The BR-20 is a fully analog preamplifier with an integrated DAC, featuring balanced and single-ended inputs/outputs, a premium ESS Sabre DAC, support for hi-res audio up to DSD256, and Bryston's proprietary Cubed Analog Circuit design.
What digital inputs does the BR-20 have?
It has USB, AES/EBU, S/PDIF coaxial, and TosLink optical digital inputs to connect digital sources.
Does the BR-20 have a built-in phono stage?
No, the BR-20 does not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a turntable. An external phono preamp would be required.
Can the BR-20 be used as just a DAC without the preamp functionality?
Yes, the DAC section can be used independently by setting the BR-20 to "Pass-Through" mode.
How many analog inputs and outputs does it have?
The BR-20 has 5 single-ended and 2 balanced analog inputs, plus 2 single-ended and 2 balanced analog outputs.
Does it have a headphone output?
No, the BR-20 does not have a dedicated headphone output. Headphones would need to be connected to an external amplifier.
