System:
Teac (Esoteric) DV50 multi-format disc player
Sonus Faber Musica integrated amp
Sonus Faber Minima Amator speakers
Gravis subwoofer
Rega P5/RB700/Exact turntable/arm/cartridge and PS Audio GCPH phono stage.
Van Den Hul The First/MC Gold interconnects
Ixos Gamma Biwire speaker cable.

Didn’t know what to expect from the Burson especially given the high quality of the Teac front-end. On installing the Burson noticed immediately the sound from CD had acquired an analogue-like smoothness, the noise floor had dropped, the silences more silent (always a good sign) and (in retrospect) a slight haze over the sound had disappeared. Somewhat gob smacked.

As the Burson burnt-in these characteristics were more evident and I noticed an improvement in the sound stage (particularly depth), deeper and tighter bass and the sound was simply more natural and realistic compared with pre-Burson. The need for a decent warm-up of the Buffer before a listening session was evident (overnight was useful).

Overall was extremely impressed and surprised at the magnitude of the improvement.

Even more surprised when I played the turntable through the Burson. The PS Audio phono stage is no slouch but the sound through the Burson had many of the characteristics already mentioned – a smooth, punchy, natural sound and again a considerable improvement over pre-Burson.

In summary, the Burson AB-160 gave a large improvement in the sound from both digital and analogue sources. Improvements of this magnitude can usually only be gained by spending thousands, so the AB-160 must be considered a great bargain especially considering its obvious quality and undoubted longevity.

Stirling E.