Thanks guys. Sounds like old is good to go; just hope no parts need to be replaced.

I don't think I'll be be able to audition - just assess condition superficially. For these specific models, Bryston sounds better (old reviews) but is a new brand to me. I've heard Krell before (back in the '80s) and memories are positive.

I'll look at both. Not sure which one is "better" for me but would like to try out one of them.

Konata
Either will be fine.
Go for it and you will be happy.
The brands are all quality and that is what matters.
Parts aren't that difficult as caps are caps, resistors and diodes can all be replaced, often with better than spec parts.

Thanks! Will try to look at both. The Bryston sounds interesting and I've been partial to Canadian audio products (Classe, Paradigm, etc).

It seems like there are various 4B versions; not sure which one is being offered here. I'm going to guess it's not likely 6 or 7. But any of these deal breakers - should I look for #4 and later? Or is even #1 good to go?

1. Bryston 4B (1978): The original 4B was launched in 1978 and was praised for its exceptional sound quality, reliability, and durability. It was available in several configurations, including the 4B NRB, which featured a new design and improved specifications.

2. Bryston 4Be (1980s): The 4Be was an upgrade to the original 4B, offering improved power supply and circuitry.

3. Bryston 4B NRB (1980s): The 4B NRB was a significant update to the original 4B, featuring a new design, improved power supply, and reduced noise.

4. Bryston 4B ST (1990s): The 4B ST was an upgrade to the 4B NRB, offering improved power supply, reduced noise, and enhanced sound quality.

5. Bryston 4B SST (1990s): The 4B SST was an even more advanced version of the 4B ST, featuring further improvements in power supply and circuitry.

6. Bryston 4B SST² (2000s): The 4B SST² was an update to the 4B SST, offering additional refinements and improvements.

7. Bryston 4B³ (2020s): The latest version of the 4B, the 4B³, features significant updates, including a new design, improved power supply, and enhanced sound quality.

I don’t ever remember hearing any Bryston products, but I have heard Krell and Mark Levinson, old McIntosh, etc back in the day. Just being in the hifi hobby, I’ve heard only good things about their sound and quality.

Back in the day, people would start out with Chevrolets , but in later life, would move up through the GM hierarchy to Buicks and Cadillacs in later life. That’s where I am now with my McIntosh.

I love my Mac, and I’ve loved them from the beginning, but what were always out of reach were Krell and Mark Levinson. I can see someday picking up some of their vintage equipment. If Krell, I’d want from the D’Agostino period.

quote:

Originally posted by smschulz:
On really ancient equipment I have had some issues with a preamp (APT Holman) that needs some capacitor replacements.
I have the kit but just haven't got around to changing them out.

If you decide not to DIY, wanted to pass on that I recently got a great refurb APT Holman from an outfit in the Boston area that is run by a gentleman who worked at APT, AudioPro. They have a lot of other high-end classical-era HiFi stuff and were very meticulous. They will also rebuild and upgrade circuitry on APT Holman preamps.

Very happy with the refurb APT - currently running it in front of a pair of Snell A-IIIs that had been owned at one time by the VP Operations of Snell itself, with a modern-design power amp between. There's nothing like good clean sound!

RE: vintage power amp, I used to run a Hafler and have nothing but good memories. Wish I'd kept it, actually.

quote:

Originally posted by konata88:
I don't think I'll be be able to audition - just assess condition superficially. For these specific models, Bryston sounds better (old reviews) but is a new brand to me. I've heard Krell before (back in the '80s) and memories are positive.

I'll look at both. Not sure which one is "better" for me but would like to try out one of them.

Back in the day, early 90s, the Krell KSA-250 was considered one of the absolute best power amps at the time, along with the Mark Levinson 20.5 and the Threshold amps. Could never buy these at the time, way beyond my reach as far as cost.

Does it matter at all weather you have $1,900.00 speakers or $19,000.00 speakers ?

I heard that You get more mileage from a cheap set of speakers.

Hi Fi is a strange hobby. Get what you want, new or old, it’s only money.