Headphone Output, Inputs, Outputs, Tape Loop

BP20/25 PreAmplifiers

Connect the pre-amplifier's left and right outputs from either the RCA or Balanced XLR connectors to the appropriate left and right input jacks on your power amplifier. Balanced cables are an advantage if you are using long runs of cable, (greater than 20 feet), between your preamplifier and power amplifier. Connect your CD player, tuner, tape deck, video recorder, or laser disc, etc. to the specific left/right pream- plifier inputs.With phono-equipped models, (BP20P, BP25P, BP20MC, BP25MC) connect your phono cables to the phono input jacks. If your turntable leads have a separate ground wire, it may be connected to the ground post adja- cent to the phono inputs on the rear panel.

The Bryston BP-20 and BP-25 pre-amps also feature two pairs of balanced XLR input jacks. Many signal sources, including CD-players and separate D/A converters are now available with Balanced outputs for minimum noise pickup on the cables.

The tape loop may be used to insert a surround sound processor, cassette tape deck or video tape recorder into your system. Plug your tape deck or external processor's input cables into the “To Tape” jacks, and the processor or deck's output cables into the “From Tape” jacks at the rear of the pre-amp. The tape or processor loop may be operat- ed via the “Tape/Source” toggle switch located on the front panel of the preamplifier.

HEADPHONE OUTPUT:

It is recommended that you use headphones with an impedance of greater than 50 ohms for optimal perform- ance. The main outputs, both balanced and single-ended, will be muted when a phone plug is inserted into the head- phone jack (TAPE outputs are not muted). The front panel indicator LED will not turn red, however, as is does when the outputs are muted via the MUTE toggle switch or the hand held remote control.

INPUTS:

BP20/25 preamplifiers are equipped with five pairs of RCA input connectors: two paris of balanced XLR input connec- tors, and one pair of RCA tape input jacks.

Balanced inputs use 3 pin XLR female connectors with pin 1 being ground, pin 2 as positive signal, and pin 3 as nega- tive signal. Input sensitivity is 1 volt and input impedance is 15K ohms.

Single-ended (or unbalanced) inputs employ gold plated RCA (Phono) jacks. Line input sensitivity is 500mV and input impedance is 50K ohms. See also PHONO EQUALIZA-

TION MODULES for Phono input details.

OUTPUTS:

There are two pairs of parallel RCA main outputs and one pair of RCA tape output jacks. One pair of balanced outputs, using 3 pin male XLR jacks, are also provided.

Balanced Outputs: As with the input XLR jacks, pin 1 is ground, pin 2 is positive and pin 3 is negative. These out-

puts are capable of driving 30 volts into any load of 600 ohms or greater. Do not short any of these three pins togeth- er!

Single-ended or unbalanced outputs: As with unbal- anced inputs, these connectors are gold plated RCA (phono) jacks. They are capable of driving 15 volts into any load of 600 ohms or greater.

TAPE LOOP:

Tape Outputs: The “TO TAPE” outputs are selected by the rotary ‘SOURCE” knob and are provided as a recording output. This feed is unaffected by the operation of other front panel controls.

Tape Inputs: The “FROM TAPE” (unbalanced RCA) inputs are useful for monitoring tape playback or processed signals. Moving the “Tape/Source” toggle to Tape’ (up) position monitors the recorded signal on recorders equipped with a separate playback head, or the processed signal when using a signal processor. Input sensitivity is 500mv, input impedance is 10K ohms.

BP25 REMOTE CONTROL (Optional):

The Bryston model BP25 preamplifier is supplied with a hand held infra-red remote control unit (units without the IR remote control are referred to as BP20 models). The remote features include

volume control, mute and polarity (or signal phase). All remote control func- tions may be operated manually from the front panel of the preamplifier if

desired.

Volume is remotely controlled via the UP and DOWN arrow buttons. A motorized volume control ensures the

lowest distortion with maximum long term reliability. It is also manually accessible on the front panel.

The Phase switch (or the “Polarity/Invert” toggle switch on the front panel) allows you to reverse the absolute phase of the audio signal (not to be confused with the left-versus- right channel phase), because polarity reversal can occur in the recording chain. It is desirable to maintain absolute phase as originally played in the recording hall as that will provide the most accurate representation of the original wave front. This may be audible in some cases as a more realistic rendition of musical transients when the preampli- fiers maintain non-inverting polarity at the Main output for all inputs when the pilot light (or status LED) is green. The polarity is inverted when the status LED is yellow. The “To Tape” outputs are always non-inverted.

The Mute control mutes the main outputs (both bal- anced and unbalanced) of the preamplifier, but not the tape outputs (labeled “To Tape”). Refer also to the Power Supply section earlier in this manual for information regarding remote amplifier control (on/off) via the mute switch.

BP20, BP25 specifications

The Bryston BP25 and BP20 represent a pinnacle of engineering in the world of high-performance audio preamplifiers. Renowned for their exceptional sound quality and meticulous design, both models are integral components for audiophiles seeking unparalleled audio fidelity.

The Bryston BP25, with its robust construction and audiophile-grade components, delivers a highly transparent audio signal that preserves the integrity of the original recording. One of the standout features of the BP25 is its fully balanced differential design, which helps to minimize noise and distortion. This topology results in a cleaner, more detailed sound, making it an ideal choice for critical listening environments.

Equipped with a comprehensive range of inputs and outputs, the BP25 accommodates various audio sources, including CD players, turntables, and digital audio players. One of its notable features is the inclusion of both XLR and RCA connectors, allowing for versatile connectivity options. The BP25 also features a high-quality headphone output, making it a versatile solution for both casual listeners and serious audiophiles who demand superior performance across different listening scenarios.

On the other hand, the Bryston BP20 is a more streamlined model that inherits many of the technological advancements seen in the BP25, but in a more compact form. The BP20 retains the essential elements of Bryston’s design philosophy, offering low noise and high dynamic range. While it has fewer inputs and outputs compared to its larger sibling, the BP20 is still capable of delivering a robust listening experience that rivals many higher-end competitors.

Both preamps leverage Bryston’s legendary build quality. Constructed in Canada, every BP25 and BP20 is meticulously assembled, with an emphasis on long-term reliability and durability. The use of premium grade components, including high-quality capacitors and resistors, ensures that these preamps provide consistent performance over time.

In terms of technology, the BP25 and BP20 utilize Bryston’s proprietary DC power supply, which significantly enhances the overall audio performance. This innovative power supply minimizes unwanted noise and ripple, resulting in a pure power source for the preamps.

With their exceptional performance, diverse connectivity options, and durable construction, the Bryston BP25 and BP20 preamps represent a commitment to quality audio reproduction, making them standouts in any high-fidelity audio system. Whether you are building a new system or upgrading an existing one, both models are worthy choices that promise to elevate your listening experience to new heights.