159 MONO Power Amp

Following their proprietary DNA, Burmester introduces the series production model of a superlative mono power amplifier. Visually taking its cue from the renowned amplifiers in the portfolio, the design of the
159 Mono Power Amplifier has been adapted to contemporary design ideas; its appearance demonstrating the progression of innovation that has taken place on the
inside of the amplifier. After 7 years of development, power and control have reached previously unattainable levels of performance and measurement. The 159 benefits both from the wealth of experience evidenced by Burmester’s track record in power amplifier development and from the latest discoveries in analogue amplifier technology. While being forward-looking in terms of form and technology, it remains, however,
typically “Burmester”.
Together with the BC350 Loudspeakers, the 159 Mono Power Amplifiers are the first
models of the new Burmester “Signature Line”.

159 Mono Power Amplifier

For the first time since the beginning of the eighties, Burmester has again developed a dedicated mono block. In terms of the company’s history, the 159 Mono
Power Amplifier crowns the success stories - especially with power amplifiers - by uniting traditional Burmester virtues with state-of-the-art technology. At the same time,
it is the most powerful power amplifier that Burmester has ever created. This monumental amplifier is also absolutely uncompromising in its inner structure.
All sound-relevant components originate from German manufacturers and were specially designed in accordance with the stipulations of the Burmester development team for this ambitious project. This extraordinary effort over a period of many years has made it possible
to consistently implement the very peak of what is technically feasible.

Adjustable Damping Factor

The adjustable damping factor offers the customer the opportunity to adjust the amplifier to their personal sound preferences and to the respective requirements of the speaker. Adjustments are made by use of a rotary encoder on the rear of the housing and can be read
via both the operator panel and on the scale of the rotary encoder.

Circuit Technology

Alongside the benefits of the amplifier in terms of sound, a further highlight is the thermally optimised circuit design. Thanks to its circuit technology which is registered for patent approval, the amplifier reaches its optimised working points within just a few seconds and
maintains them regardless of the operating temperature. Therefore, a warm-up phase is not required. Right from the start, the 159 Mono Power Amplifier delivers the natural and substantial sound for which Burmester is globally renowned. The generous reserves of peak
power are carefully monitored in real time by an analogue computer, making sure that the
operating range of every output transistor is always maintained. This extensive and seamless control system detects any impermissible operating status and is thus able to provide secure protection of the amplifier.

Design

To preserve the purist design, the control unit is hidden under the opulent aluminium cover.
Pushing the cover to the rear allows access to the control console, with a concentrically positioned push lever and relevant information concerning the device, such as operating status or the damping factor display. The characteristic heat sinks with their silver-anodised
ribs are recognised worldwide as a hallmark of Burmester power amplification, symbolising the harmony and illustriousness. Design and function merge to form a truly majestic product.

Manufacturing and Quality Control 

From the manually assembled circuit boards, to
the selected transformers, to the computer-aidedmeasuring station takes over 100 hours of production time. In addition, there are several days of trial runs and further intensive quality controls, including a detailed final listening test under real conditions. Each individual
component receives a 100% inspection before installation,assuring the recognised Burmester quality standards. This extensive manufacturing process ultimately ensures
that the customer is in receipt of an extraordinary product in every respect.


Special Features

Variable damping factor for adaptation to
the speaker
Burmester typical layout with completely
symmetrical design
Generously dimensioned power supply
allows highest output performance
Stable at all loads from 1 Ω

Connection Options

Symmetrical input
Asymmetrical input via
supplied adapter
10V DC input for remote on/off via
Burmester pre-amps
BurSync for synchronizing connected
159 Mono Power Amps
Symmetrical output (XLR Through)
Loudspeaker outputs

Technical Specifications

Technology                                                         : Mono-power amp/full bridge, class A/B                      
Dimensions (WxHxD)                                          : 523 mm x 415 mm x 660 mm
Weight                                                               : approx. 180 kg
Rated power                                                       : 1,200 W (4Ω) to IEC 62368
Pulse power                                                        : 6,600 W (4Ω) to CEA
Continuous current/ peak current                         : 17 A / 72 A
Damping factor (4Ω)                                           : 102 – 3,895 in 23 steps
Signal to noise ratio                                            : > 120 dB
Input sensitivity                                                  : 750 mV 
Power bandwidth (-3 dB)                                     : 410 kHz (-3dB)
Slew-Rate                                                          : 160V/µs
Harmonic distortion at 1 kHz (50 W/ 4Ω / 22 kHz) : 0.00039%