Bryston Bi200
Bryston Bi200 stereo integrated amplifier, combining a BP-19 preamplifier and a dual-mono 3B power stage rated at 200 W into 8 ohms in a single chassis, for a demanding hi-fi system.
Description
The Bi200 is a stereo integrated amplifier that condenses two components from the Bryston range into a single chassis: the BP-19 preamplifier and the 3B power stage. The idea is simple to state and demanding to achieve: offer the same signal chain as two separate components, without the space taken up by a second unit or the pair of interconnect cables needed to link them.
The power stage operates in dual mono and delivers 200 watts into 8 ohms, a figure that rises to 300 watts per channel into 4 ohms. This ability to increase power as impedance drops indicates a power supply sized to cope with speakers whose load dips across certain frequency ranges. The whole design is built around a fully balanced discrete circuit, and cooling is achieved by convection alone: no fan is added, meaning no mechanical noise in a quiet listening room.
On the preamplification side, level adjustment remains analogue but its control is digital, a combination that preserves the signal path while allowing precise remote control. The Bi200 accepts up to six analogue sources, offers a balance control between channels and has a buffered headphone output independent of the rest of the chain. An optional low-distortion MM/MC phono module could be added.
The home-automation integration features clearly set this model apart from a conventional integrated amplifier: bidirectional RS232 link, DC trigger output for controlling other equipment, status reporting via Ethernet, USB or RS232, and compatibility with the BR-4 remote control. The microprocessor-managed soft-start circuit prevents circuit breakers from tripping on power-up, a detail that is far from trivial on an amplifier of this power. All manufacturing takes place in Ontario, Canada, with each unit undergoing 100 hours of burn-in and an inspection report before shipping.
This Bi200 is aimed at the listener who wants the substance of a separates-based system without accepting its bulk, and at those who combine stereo listening with a controlled installation: a multi-use living room, a system integrated into home automation, or a dedicated room where the absence of forced ventilation matters. Its power reserve under low-impedance loads suits it to speakers known to be difficult to drive, rather than highly sensitive models.
Technical specifications
| Power (8 ohms) | 200 W |
| Power per channel (4 ohms) | 300 W |
| Topology | Dual mono, fully balanced discrete circuit |
| Analogue inputs | Up to 6 |
| Phono | Optional low-distortion MM/MC module |
| Headphone output | Buffered, independent |
| Cooling | Convection, fanless |
| Control connectivity | Bidirectional RS232, DC trigger output, status via Ethernet/USB/RS232 |
| Remote control | BR-4 compatible |
| Front panel | Machined aluminium, 17 or 19 inches, silver or black |
| Manufacturing | Ontario, Canada |
| Burn in before shipping | 100 hours |
What to check before buying used
When buying this type of integrated amplifier used, a few checks are worthwhile. Listen to the analogue volume control operating across its full travel and on both channels: a persistent imbalance at low levels or crackling when adjusting indicates a worn potentiometer. Check that the balance control returns correctly to a centred position. As cooling is passive, check the condition and cleanliness of the heat sink fins as well as the ventilation around the chassis, both essential to thermal stability. Test each of the analogue inputs one by one, the headphone output separately, and if the optional phono module is fitted, run it in both MM and MC positions. Finally, confirm that the BR-4 remote control is present and that the soft-start behaves correctly, with power-up occurring smoothly and without any noise from the speakers.
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