Bryston VS Musical Fidelity

I think if you're considering spending $1800 you should watch the classifieds for a used Brytson 4B SST, which you should be able to buy around $2000, or you should try a pair of NuForce Reference 8B monos ($1600/pair). The NuForce go loud without distortion. Don't let the 100wpc power rating fool you.

Why do I suggest these options? Because with the Bryston, you will be able to re-sell it for what you paid. I did, and you can do the same. You'll have had the opportunity to hear it in your personal system vs. a dealer's showroom. Concerning the NuForce, the same theory applies, except with the NuForce you'll be able to return them within 30 days for a refund (minus shipping...6 pounds...big deal). I can think of no better way of trying two amps in your own system with less risk.

You will not be able to buy Rotal amps and re-sell them down the road at the same price. So, if you buy Rotel...and you certainly should if they provide the sound you want...plan to keep them, or be willing to accept the price depreciation.

you are so correct! That's what started it all. I figured if
I'm going to spend close to 2K maybe I should look at other
options.
Thanks for all the info.

Greg,

I think I will put my nose in where it doesn't belong.

I have not auditioned a Bryston. Before I started my upgrade spree I had the CDM9NT driven by a B&K ST2140. Moving to the MF A308 integrated was a huge step for my system, after burn in the sound stage opened up the bottom end was more extended and forcefull. Wish I could go into more detail but that was over a year ago.

Since you can't audition both side by side. This makes your decision that much more difficult. Not to mention we haven't been that much help either.

Michael

Remember to take the system as a whole.

I've thought about the 'slow' comment, and it is admittedly vague. I think I always thought of the Bryston as less refined sounding than some others. For example, many will disagree, but I find the Levinson to be uninteresting, musically. I am not sure if it lacks dynamic contrasting, but to me, (just to me IMHO) not interesting.
The Bryston, (and I was a dealer for them for a short time) many years ago; the same characteristic sound is found for me in their OEM Lexicon Amps. Solid well built, probably never break, but not as detailed as some others I like more. Hell, maybe it's just neutral.
Just, not a fan of it's 'sound' perhaps.

Larry, I would argue that perhaps your experience with the Bryston amps many years ago was with a line that is not current (ST vs. SST, and perhaps before the ST series?). Therefore, the sound of Bryston may be different than what you recall. Possible?