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Burmester 101
Integrated amplifier
For Classic Line
The 101 Integrated Amplifier exemplifies the perfect combination of efficient power amplification with an analog power supply. Its remarkable power reserves provide the warm and balanced sound that Burmester is famous for.
Integrated Amplifier
The 101 Integrated Amplifier is a sterling example for the perfect combination of efficient Class D power amplification with an analog power supply. With its available power reserves this compact component provides the warm and well-balanced sound that says unmistakably Burmester. The switchable „Smooth“ function guarantees a smooth, yet detailed sound even at low playback levels. The addition of balanced preamp outputs open the door to using the 101 as pure preamplifier by adding separate power amplifiers at a later date.
With attention to detail.
Recognisable as a typical Burmester even from the very first glance, the 101 integrated amplifier makes use of characteristic design elements of the Classic Line.
Design
The elegant and simple chromed front panel is augmented by a row of glossy polished buttons for input selection. A striking design element is the solid turn knob for volume control. Sound-wise and stylistically the 101 integrated Amplifier is the ideal partner for the 102 CD player.
Handmade
Burmester is famous for excellent amplifier technology. That was reason enough for the Burmester development team to accept the challenge of developing its own solution for Class D amplification. This proprietary Class D module is carefully assembled by hand in their Berlin factory and integrated with the other sub-assemblies.
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Burmester 101 — musical, luxurious, and surprisingly practical
The Burmester 101 blends a compact, stainless‑steel chassis with a Class D output stage and an analogue power supply to deliver a warm, detailed and spacious sound that punches above its size. Reviewers praised its open imaging, strong transient grip and a headphone output that rivals dedicated rigs — see Marc Phillips and Tom Martin.
Feature-rich for modern systems, the 101 offers 3 XLR and 2 RCA inputs, balanced pre-out, BurLink network support, surround thruput and a handy "Smooth" mode for low‑level listening. Build and remote control are top tier, making it equally at home as a high‑end living‑room centerpiece or a headphone-focused reference.
For audiophiles who want luxurious cosmetics, polished ergonomics and musicality in one integrated unit, the 101 is a compelling, if premium, choice.
Pros
- Exceptional build quality and finish — heavy, stainless‑steel chassis and meticulous fit/finish that read as high‑end lifestyle hardware.
- Musical, warm yet detailed presentation with an impressive headphone output that provides openness and space for critical listening.
- Strong dynamics and imaging — tight, controlled bass and a wide, airy soundstage that disappears behind the music.
- Comprehensive connectivity and useful features (3 XLR/2 RCA, balanced pre-out, BurLink, surround thruput and a "Smooth" low‑level mode) for versatile system integration.
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Cons
- Positioned at a premium price point — a high‑end purchase that may be hard to justify for mainstream buyers.
Sound Quality
89/100
Dynamics
88/100
The review notes the system was 'dynamic' and that the setup produced 'tight, pounding bass' and energized the room; the 101 is also described as a Class D design with an analog power supply, supporting expectations of strong, controlled delivery. While specific wattage/headroom figures aren’t provided, reviewer impressions indicate excellent transient grip and punch for the product class.
Soundstage Imaging
91/100
Reviewer reports a very open, spacious presentation—'they kicked down the walls of my room and then disappeared' and a 'sense of air and openness'—pointing to excellent imaging, width/depth and stable, holographic staging.
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Build Quality
94/100
Build and finish receive strong praise: 'There isn’t a single detail that doesn’t look and feel like it’s the best it can possibly be,' and the 101 is repeatedly described as beautifully made and a lifestyle product. The chassis, controls and overall fit/finish are presented as top-tier for its segment.
Features Connectivity
92/100
The 101 offers a comprehensive set of connections: 3 XLR and 2 RCA inputs, balanced pre-out, a 6.3mm headphone jack, surround thruput (home-theater passthrough), remote control and BurLink (manufacturer network/streaming). Combined these extras push the feature score well above baseline; the presence of balanced I/O, headphone out and BurLink are particularly valuable.
Value for Money
82/100
The reviewer notes the combined Burmester system MSRP ($28,000) is 'substantial for most people,' indicating price is a consideration; however the product is framed as a high-end, lifestyle purchase with exceptional build and sound. This yields a slight concern on value (pricey but justifiable to enthusiasts), hence a moderately positive but cautious score.
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