Bryston BR4 Remote Control

One remote for the Bryston stack

The Bryston BR4 Remote Control is Bryston's infrared system remote, with three device modes covering a preamplifier or integrated amplifier, a CD or digital source, and a DAC. Codes are entered from the keypad so the handset can be set for whichever Bryston components you own. Volume and mute stay active no matter which mode is selected, which is the detail that makes it usable day to day.

Why You'll Love It

• Three modes, one handset. Preamplifier, digital source and DAC modes let a full Bryston system run from a single remote instead of three, without any learning process.
• Volume always live. The volume and mute keys work regardless of the selected mode, so you never have to switch modes just to turn the music down.
• Set by code, not by guesswork. Three digit codes entered from the keypad configure each mode, with an LED confirming entry and a factory reset code to start again.

Under the Hood

• Infrared handset with a 0 to 9 keypad, volume, mute, a CODE button and three mode keys for digital or CD, DA and preamplifier.
• Programmed with three digit codes by holding CODE until the red LED flashes twice and entering the code, with 795 restoring factory settings.
• Discrete serial commands for the same functions are available over RS-232 on components that support it, for custom installation control.

CHT Insider Verdict

A replacement or spare handset is one of those purchases that only matters when you need it, and then it matters a lot. Worth checking your components against the supported list before ordering, because the BR4 covers Bryston's preamplifiers, integrated amplifiers, CD players and DACs but not every product in the range. It does not control the BHA-1 headphone amplifier or the BP-2 phono stages, neither of which has remote capability.

Pro Tip: Write your three digit codes on a label inside the battery cover once the handset is set up. If the batteries go flat and the programming is lost, you will thank yourself for not having to find the manual again.