Sound becomes less open/smeared (less detailed)


Hi all.

Strange phenomena but when I play music (and leave my set on for days) the sound becomes less detailed (smeared). I know it's the pre amp (Bryston BP25).

After switching it off and then switching it on (after waiting a couple of minutes) the sound is more open and detailed. 

It's strange because I also have the general experience when listening to stuff which has been turned on not long ago, sound is a little harsh and grainy at first. With use it gets more fluid and smooth. But my experience with this preamp is many times the opposite (but just after many hours).

Can someone explain this behaviour?

 

 

vhond

Bad caps, resistors, diodes will not always have visable damaged signs. After 20 years definately have it serviced. I got back a bit more than the service cost on my 40 year old amp when I sold it 4 years later.

 

@vhond , it absolutely needs to be on the workbench. As mentioned above failing parts can appear perfectly intact. You have 2 choices keep using at as it fails or send it in. Last spring I bought 2 shipping crates from Rogue at $320 delivered. And then used Pirate Ship at $165 X two ways. So I was into it for $650 in just crates and shipping. I went BIG and had them upgrade while there. But like I said above they diagnosed failing diodes that LOOKED FINE and the one amp played great. Unfortunately you’re in the dynamic of “ IT IS WHAT IT IS “. Unlike most on this site I struggle to afford what I have and understand your issue. I wish you a happy resolution, respectfully Mike B. 

The Fidelity Audio website details some updates for your BP-25:
Opens with:
"The Bryston is a good discrete design pre-amplifier but is let down by a poor power supply and cheap selection of part (sic)."

It lists the parts used in the upgrade if you wish to do it yourself instead of forking out nearly $1350 ( 999 GBP)  for their service, plus freight.
(Just passing info, no connection)

https://www.fidelityaudio.co.uk/bryston-bp25-pre-amplifier-upgrade-5350-p.asp
 

@stager : I knew that website. One of the most remarkable things of that upgrade is they leave out the by me earlier mentioned blue electrolytics (replacing it with straight wire resistors).

That's tricky because you really have to know what power amp you're are using (if that has some other protection for connecting external devices).