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Bryston BP-19 Analog Preamplifier
The Bryston BP-19 leverages years of R&D and many design innovations that were achieved during the development of the multi-award-winning BR-20 preamplifier. The BP-19 reproduces music effortlessly, constructed using only the finest hand-selected premium components including an oversized toroidal power transformer. The optimized discrete operational amplifier delivers a staggeringly low THD+N measurement at or below 0.0006%. The signal path features a fully balanced design from input-to-output, using an array of very tightly matched components and a compact circuit architecture, achieving the lowest possible noise and superior common mode rejection. For the devoted music enthusiast, these innovations, combined with the legendary hand-built excellence from Bryston, translate to more lifelike performances, enhanced detail, and a greater sense of dimensionality and dynamics from all recordings.
Inputs and Outputs
The input array includes two pairs of balanced XLR input jacks and four pairs of RCA input connectors. There are two pairs of RCA (phono) outputs (one pair fixed, one pair variable), and two pair of balanced XLR outputs (one pair fixed, one pair variable).
Exceptional Phono Stage for Vinyl Playback
For the first time ever, Bryston is offering the legendary BP-2 moving magnet (MM) phono stage circuit as an onboard option for the BP-19 preamp. As Carlo Lo Raso noted in his review on Secrets of Home Theater, “The tonal balance was exceedingly neutral and revealing with just enough warmth tossed into the presentation to make any sort of vocal performance downright shine. Background noise was completely nonexistent with the BP-2…” The BP-2 is highly accurate, offers extremely low noise, miniscule distortion, and provides headroom margins sufficient to prevent overload from any known phono source. Bryston also offers specially designed, custom-made outboard step-up transformers to accommodate low output Moving Coil (MC) cartridge designs.
Control Options
Many features of the BP-19 can be easily controlled using included infrared remote. Each of the six analog inputs have corresponding buttons on the remote as well as on the front panel of the preamp. HEX codes are also available for use with a universal style remote control. The BP-19 preamplifier can be controlled remotely using RS232 or IP when connected to a smart home ecosystem via the RS232 or Ethernet ports on the rear panel. The BP-19 can also be remotely turned on or placed into standby, and trigger outputs can be used to power on/off other connected equipment, such as a power amplifier.
Personalized Faceplates
The BP-19 is available in five standard faceplate finishes, in 17 or 19-inch widths. 19-inch rack mount for professional applications are also available. Bryston also offers personalized custom faceplate colors for the BP-19 and other electronics such as amplifiers, preamplifiers, CD players, digital players, phono stages, and DAC’s. Choose from the standard colors or create a bespoke finish to suit any entertainment space or décor. The BP-19 is meticulously handcrafted in Canada and comes with Bryston’s legendary 10-year warranty.
Features
- 2 pair balanced female XLR inputs
- 2 pair balanced male XLR outputs (Number 1 Variable - 2 Fixed)
- 2 pair single ended outputs (Number 1 Variable - 2 Fixed)
- 4 pair RCA inputs (Input 1 Option Phono BP-19P & BP-19MC only)
Options
- Standard Silver or Black Faceplates Available in 17 or 19 Inch
- Pro 19 Inch Rackmount
- Custom Colour Faceplates Available
- Moving magnet RIAA phono equali- zation module
- Moving Coil Transformer phono module 20/30 dB
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Bryston BP-19 Analog Preamplifier — reference-class transparency with musicality
The BP-19 makes its strongest impression with an ultra-low noise floor and clinical transparency, delivering exceptionally clean, detailed playback that both reviewers found revelatory. Listeners report purer, creamier tonality, taut low frequencies and a wider, taller soundstage with pinpoint imaging — attributes highlighted by Malcolm J. Gomes and Andrew Dewhirst. Performance notes include excellent dynamics, refined leading-edge definition and low distortion (THD/IMD and -110 dB SNR specifications), plus a robust onboard headphone amp. Build quality is pro-grade — 17/19" rack widths, thick aluminum faceplate and a 20-year parts/labor heritage — and the remote and fine attenuation control suit critical listening. Ideal for audiophiles who want an honest, long-lived analog preamp for high-resolution systems or rack installations, the BP-19 pairs reference sonic clarity with practical, studio-friendly design.
Pros
- Reference-level transparency and ultra-low noise floor enable exceptional micro-detail retrieval and minimal listening fatigue.
- Wide, precise soundstage and improved dynamics — leading edges and natural decay give convincing realism and instrument placement.
- Robust, rack-friendly construction with thoughtful ergonomics (fine linear attenuation, strong headphone amp and dependable remote) and industry-leading longevity.
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Cons
- Purist feature set — no internal DAC, phono stage or modern extras (HDMI/room correction), which limits all-in-one versatility.
- Only one of the balanced outputs is variable (the other is fixed), which may complicate integrating multiple powered subwoofers without additional equipment.
Transparency
95/100
Both reviewers emphasize an extremely low noise floor and a colorless, non-additive presentation (reviewers cite -110 dB SNR and vanishingly low THD/IMD). Comments about being able to hear subtle effects, reduced grunge vs previous models, and retaining fine micro-detail support a top-tier transparency rating and multiple reviewers treating it as reference-class for this attribute.
Sound Quality
92/100
Dynamics
92/100
Critics report stronger leading-edge definition, more natural decay, and ability to play louder with less audible compression or distortion. These observations point to excellent micro- and macro-dynamic performance for an active preamp.
Soundstage Imaging
92/100
Both reviews praise a wider, deeper and taller soundstage with precise instrument localization and increased sense of air between instruments. The BP-19 is repeatedly credited with improved imaging and convincing spatial cues.
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Build Quality
92/100
Bryston's long (20-year) warranty, solid rack-friendly 17/19" construction and thick aluminum faceplate are repeatedly noted; reviewers also praise the quiet operation despite no separate PSU. The mechanical and industrial design and parts choice are presented as high-end and durable.
Features Connectivity
87/100
The BP-19 offers balanced and unbalanced I/O, a high-output level (12V), a highly capable onboard headphone amplifier, and a well-regarded remote and fine attenuation control. It lacks an internal DAC or phono stage (user-upgradeable) and modern extras (HDMI/room correction/HT bypass), placing it in the well-equipped-but-purist category.
Value for Money
91/100
Reviewers call the BP-19 a fair-priced, worthy consideration that retains value and competes with much more expensive preamps; one reviewer even brands it his new reference. Language in the reviews supports a justified-premium assessment rather than merely neutral value.
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