Bryston BD-325 Multi-Channel Digital Amplifier

Class D with a Bryston power supply behind it

The Bryston BD-325 Multi-Channel Digital Amplifier pairs Bryston's own Class D modules with a large linear power supply, which is unusual in a category that normally runs switch mode. It is built to order with one to six independent modules in a common chassis, each rated at 325W into 8Ω and 650W into 4Ω. Designed for custom installation, multi-zone and multi-channel systems where rack space and heat are both limited.

Why You'll Love It

• Configured for the job. One to six modules in one 3U chassis means a two zone install and a six channel cinema use the same footprint, and you only pay for the channels you specify.
• Real dynamic headroom. A toroidal transformer with 144,000µF of storage supports 4500W dynamic output across all channels, so transients do not compress the way they can on switch mode designs.
• Cool and quiet in a cupboard. Class D efficiency above 90% means no fan is needed in most installations, which is exactly what you want in a rack behind a closed door.

Under the Hood

• Proprietary Bryston Class D amplifier modules fed by a linear toroidal power supply with 144,000µF of storage capacitance, rather than a switch mode supply.
• Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs with 29dB voltage gain and 2V sensitivity, plus a 12V trigger for system control.
• Frequency response 1Hz to 50kHz into 6Ω at -3dB, signal to noise 105dB at full power, 1500W continuous RMS available across all channels.

CHT Insider Verdict

This is a custom install amplifier that does not sound like one. The linear supply is the reason, and it shows up as bass that stays solid when several channels are working at once. Note that the 1500W continuous all-channel figure is below six times the per-channel rating, so specify the channel count to suit the real duty cycle rather than assuming full power on every channel forever.

Pro Tip: Decide your channel count at order time. The modules are fitted at build, so a four channel unit cannot be expanded later, and a spare channel is much cheaper now than a second chassis in two years.