Bryston 3B³ Stereo Power Amplifier
Best high-fidelity power amplifier for serious audiophiles seeking uncompromising sonic accuracy.
Experience unparalleled audio fidelity with the Bryston 3B³ Stereo Power Amplifier. This dual-mono amplifier delivers a robust 200 watts per channel into 8 ohms, expandable to 400 watts in bridged mono mode. Engineered with Bryston's proprietary Cubed Series circuitry, it ensures exceptional clarity and accuracy, closely mirroring live sound. Featuring selectable balanced and single-ended inputs, low-voltage trigger integration, and a 100-hour factory burn-in, the 3B³ is built for enduring performance and reliability, backed by a 20-year warranty.
$5995.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
1156
/ 1684
#1156 in Power Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-27%
Below average
Power output
200830044008
/ watts per channel at ohms; watts at ohms; bridged mono watts at ohms
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking transparent and highly detailed musical reproduction
- Long-term investors prioritizing durability and exceptional manufacturer support
- Listeners driving power-hungry speakers that require consistent, stable amplification
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level or mid-range audio solutions
- Minimalists with limited shelf space or lightweight furniture setups
- Listeners preferring a colored, warm, or vintage sonic character
Performance breakdown
Audio Fidelity
Cubed circuitry delivers exceptional clarity that mirrors the nuance of live sound.
Power Delivery
Robust output handles demanding speakers with effortless authority and dynamic headroom.
Build Reliability
Legendary construction standards backed by an industry-leading twenty-year warranty.
Channel Separation
Dual-mono design ensures precise imaging and a wide, immersive soundstage.
Connectivity Versatility
Flexible input options accommodate professional balanced and standard consumer audio gear.
Signal Precision
Ultra-low distortion levels maintain absolute signal integrity across the entire spectrum.
Key Specs
Power output
200 watts per channel at 8 ohms; 300 watts at 4 ohms; bridged mono 400 watts at 8 ohms
Gain
High 29 dB; Low 23 dB
Sensitivity
High: 1.0V (100W), 1.4V (200W); Low: 2.0V (100W), 2.8V (200W)
Input Impedance (Individual Mode)
Single Ended ≈60k ohm; Balanced + ≈60k ohm; Balanced - ≈12.5k ohm
Input Impedance (Bridged Mode)
Single Ended ≈10k ohm; Balanced + ≈10k ohm; Balanced - ≈10k ohm
IMD
≤0.005%
Noise (input shorted 20Hz-20kHz)
High: <0.110dB (-75 dBu); Low: <0.113dB (-78 dBu)
Damping Factor
>500 at 20 Hz, 8 Ohms
Features
- Dual-mono design for superior channel separation
- Selectable balanced XLR, TRS, and RCA inputs
- Low-voltage trigger for automatic power-on
- 100-hour factory testing for reliability
- Quad-Complementary output topology
- Patented input circuit for linearity
- Available in 17" or 19" faceplates
- Bridged mono capability
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Bryston 3B³ Stereo Power Amplifier for its exceptional build quality and robust reliability. Owners frequently highlight the amplifier's ability to deliver a clean, powerful, and transparent sound, noting its consistent performance across various audio setups. The enduring design and the brand's reputation for long term support further solidify its standing as a premium, dependable audio component. This amplifier is seen as a significant investment that delivers on its promise of superior audio reproduction and lasting satisfaction.
Know before you buy
The dual-mono design uses independent power supplies and circuitry for each channel. This minimizes crosstalk and interference, ensuring that the performance of one channel does not affect the other, which results in a more precise and expansive soundstage.
Yes, the 3B³ is bridgeable. In bridged mono mode, the amplifier combines its channels to deliver 400 watts into an 8-ohm load, providing significantly more power for demanding speakers.
Yes, it features selectable inputs for balanced XLR and TRS connections, as well as standard single-ended RCA inputs. This flexibility allows you to integrate the amplifier into a wide variety of professional and home audio setups.
The 100-hour burn-in process is a rigorous testing phase that ensures the amplifier's components are stable and performing to specification before it leaves the factory. This practice significantly enhances long-term reliability and ensures the unit is ready for critical listening right out of the box.
Yes, the 3B³ is available with either a 17-inch or 19-inch faceplate, the latter of which is designed for standard rack-mounting. Please ensure your rack has adequate ventilation, as the unit weighs 42 pounds and requires space for heat dissipation.
The low-voltage trigger allows the amplifier to automatically power on or enter standby mode when it receives a signal from a compatible preamplifier or processor. This eliminates the need to manually toggle the power switch every time you want to listen to your system.
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$5995