Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Excellent imaging prowess
- A pure sounding unit with a tonality that is a bit on the warm side
- Extremely well built with a full aluminum frame
- Drives all different types of headphones with ease
Product Considerations
- The power button and mode shift button feel a bit loose
- The primary LED light is very bright
- One thing that is not clearly stated on the rear is where left and right channels go
- Unfortunately, outputs cannot be switched, or the unit turned off, with the remote control
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Topping DX7 Pro: The Topping is ultra clear and has less body from top to bottom, it's a more neutral presentation compared to that of the bigger, more powerful sounding unit
- Vs Chord Hugo 2: Sounds more natural—more analogue
Takeaway: The Burson Conductor 3 Performance/3X/3XP is an integrated component system that's great for listening to music and works well with many different headphones. It has excellent imaging and provides a fun listening experience.
All
Conductor 3P | 3XP
reviews
Manufacturer details
- DAC Chip: SABRE32/ESS9038Q2M
- USB Receiver: XMOS
- Bluetooth: Qualcomm/CSR8675 Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD (24bit/96khz)
- Audio Format Support: DSD512 and 38bit/786khz
- Power Supply: Max Current Power Supply (MCPS) with 170kHz voltage frequency
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Burson distinguishes itself by utilizing fully discrete, pure Class-A amplifier designs, deviating from the integrated circuits (ICs) commonly found in other brands.
- They incorporate swappable op-amps, which are not soldered to the circuit board, providing users with the ability to fine-tune the sonic characteristics of their equipment, making them customisable.
- They developed their proprietary Max Current Power Supplies (MCPS) to enhance dynamic range and reduce noise, setting them apart from competitors that use standard switching transformer designs.
- Burson is known for its powerful, engaging sound signature, often described as warmer, punchier, and more dynamic, differing from the more neutral or analytical presentations of other brands.
Select products
Voyager
- Positioning: Positioned as a high-end headphone amplifier and preamplifier in Burson Audio's lineup.
- Description: Offers a rich, full-bodied sound with excellent dynamics. Its dual mono Class-A design and custom cooling system set it apart from other products, providing superior soundstage and detail compared to the Performance series.
Party
- Positioning: Burson Audio's entry-level line, designed for affordability and compactness.
- Description: Fun and compact, featuring key technologies from Burson's higher-end models. While it lacks the power and refinement of the Performance series, it offers a versatile and energetic sound, making it a great choice for casual listeners or those with budget constraints.
Performance
- Positioning: A mid-range offering, providing a balance between price and high-quality audio performance.
- Description: Known for its engaging and dynamic sound, features a powerful Class-A output stage that enhances its sonic capabilities. Compared to the Party series, it offers a more refined sound with better detail and resolution.
Grand Tourer
- Positioning: Burson Audio's flagship line, representing the pinnacle of their audio engineering.
- Description: Delivers groundbreaking audio performance with its deep Class-A operation and advanced features. It offers a more immersive and detailed soundstage than the Voyager series.
Our take on the brand
Look inside the brand
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
Modular, Upgradeable Designs
We believe great gear should evolve with your system. That's why our products feature swappable opamps and power modules — letting users fine-tune performance or upgrade later without buying a whole new unit.
Pushing Class-A to New Heights
All our amplifiers operate in pure Class-A with high idle bias to achieve an effortless, dynamic sound.
What's your approach to customer support?
We love working directly with our customers — it's one of the best parts of being a small, passionate team. Customers can always reach out to us directly or go through their local dealer if they prefer. What to expect:
- Fast and personal responses
- Worldwide service centers (AU, EU, US, HK) to keep support convenient
- Trade-in options for older gear
- And even tips for mods and tweaks
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
"Vincent" – Sara K (from Are We There Yet): A stunning vocal performance with incredible acoustic detail.
"Don't Know Why" – Norah Jones: Her voice reveals micro-detail and tonal balance instantly.
"Limit to Your Love" – James Blake: Sub-bass extension, dynamics.
What other products pair best with yours?
We've had nearly 20 years of working relationship with Audeze, and our US facility — although it's changed address a few times — has always been close to Audeze's in California. Naturally, we love how Audeze headphones pair with our amps. Their planar designs thrive on the high-current, Class-A power that Burson gear delivers.
What if you spend more?
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An Epic Grand Tourer In 2023, we are enhancing the epic Soloist 3/3X GT with even cleaner power and superior signal path, pushing their performance to new heights. Symmetrical through and through Don’t judge a book by its cover, but you can judge circuitry by its layout. Inside the GT, two separate mono amps create a symmetrical power setup. The result? A mesmerising soundstage and incredible detail that will leave you in awe!
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Product Strengths
- Very clean, transparent sound, faithfully mirroring the source material and capable of resolving micro-details
- Ample power to drive even the most demanding headphones, with refined power that allows nuances to play on the micro scale, especially with high-performance DACs
- Great soundstage size
- The noise floor has been lowered with the newest power modules resulting in more clarity
Product Considerations
- May run hotter
- High listening volumes can cause ears to ring
- Some reviewers found that the soundstage depth was limited compared to some other amplifiers
- Can reveal harshness in recordings or other equipment in the chain
- Noise may be present when used with very sensitive IEMs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Treble is more natural compared to the Old Soloist 3XGT, while bass and midrange are more textured
- The newer version has greater separation and clarity compared to the Old Soloist 3XGT, while the older version sounds a little thicker overall
- Much more clear than Exposure 21 pre and 18 super monoblocks
- It has better clarity, grip and control than Hegel H190
- It can match the Denafrips Hades Thalo in clarity
- The SP-2 upgraded Soloist goes toe-to-toe with the Enleum AMP23R
Takeaway: The Soloist recgviNbkfbno9pQR is a very capable headphone amplifier that provides a clean and powerful sound, suitable for a wide range of headphones. The lower noise and detail retrieval make it a very good choice for audiophiles seeking a high-performance listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Delivers a vividly detailed and balanced sound, handling complicated mixes with skill
- Able to extract a lot of information from digital audio files with apparent ease
- A volume lock prevents accidental volume adjustments when the device is in a pocket or bag
- Extensive specification including Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless compatibility and multiple inputs/outputs for versatile connectivity
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers feel the device is not very pocket-friendly due to its size and sharp edges, making it better suited as a transportable—rather than a truly portable—device
- The gain is set too high, making precise volume control difficult, especially with sensitive IEMs
- Using IEMatch adds output impedance, which can negatively affect the tonal balance and dynamics of some IEMs
- The length of the included USB-C cable is short, making it difficult to position the device on a desk
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo 1, the Diablo 2 offers slight sonic improvements and better build quality, but at a higher price
- Compared to the iDSD Signature, the iDSD Signature is considered by some to offer a better result for less money, with a more realistic instrument and vocal timbre, larger soundstage, and customizable features like crossfeed and bass boost
- Compared to the FiiO Q7, the iDSD Diablo 2 has a vivid sound, where the FiiO Q7 has a smooth and wide sound
Takeaway: The iDSD Diablo 2 is a powerful and versatile DAC/amp that enhances headphone listening with its detailed sound and extensive features. It is a good choice for users who want a high-quality audio experience on the go or at their desk.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Anni is our first-ever desktop integrated amplifier. Capable of driving both headphones and compact loudspeakers, Anni benefits from the company's proprietary ULTIMA circuit topology and is perfectly positioned to exploit the full potential of today's high-performance headphones, desktop monitors and high-resolution audio sources.
The new Anni desktop integrated amplifier forms part of the Qutest range and seamlessly complements the resolving abilities of the multi-award-winning Qutest standalone DAC and Huei phono stage. As a system, the Qutest components provide an unrivalled desktop audio solution, offering class-leading digital and analogue technologies for the modern music lover. The company's compact QSS (Qutest Stand System) modular equipment rack provides the perfect support, too.
Anni offers the recently announced dual-feed-forward error-correction circuit topology whether using headphones or compact loudspeakers. Anni's advanced technology allows it to drive any headphone load, error-monitored and compensated amplification at all times.
Benefitting from both 3.5 mm headphone outputs and ¼-inch (6.35 mm) outputs, so two can listen simultaneously, plus 4 mm banana-type loudspeaker outputs, Anni delivers 10 watts of quality ULTIMA amplification, controlled by a fascia-mounted volume control that also doubles as an input selector switch for Anni's two line-level inputs. A two-stage gain control for loudspeakers provides additional flexibility with a wide range of desktop monitors.
Product Strengths
- Joyful sound signature with detailed output
- Can power a wide range of headphones, due to Ultima technology
- Compact design, stacks perfectly with the Qutest and Huei
- Employs trickle-down Ultima technology to allow delivery of enormous peak current outputs
- Solid build quality using CNC-milled aluminum casework and good heat dissipation
- Connectivity options include headphone and speaker outputs
Product Considerations
- No gain switch for the headphone output
- Default gain level a bit high for sensitive IEMs
- More power limitations with speakers than headphones—best for smaller, efficient speakers or nearfield listening
- Runs hot, requiring good ventilation
- The volume control feels a little wobbly and might be difficult to use in a very precise way, and there is some channel imbalance at very low volumes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Qutest/Anni pairing justifies its price premium thanks to a more composed and insightful presentation that offers notably more low-end authority, dynamic punch and tonal richness
- Cyrus ONE HD is plusher, showing that Anni has strong niche appeal
- The iFi xDSD Gryphon has digital inputs and built-in DAC, while Anni can power speakers
Takeaway: The Chord Electronics Anni is a compact and well-built amplifier that delivers a joyful and detailed sound, making it a great addition to a desktop setup for headphone and nearfield speaker listening. Its use of trickle-down Ultima technology ensures high-quality performance in a small package, and its ability to stack with other Chord devices makes it a good choice for those already invested in the ecosystem.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
Product Strengths
- High-quality build and aesthetics, with a metal casing and elegant fascia made to a high standard
- A clear, powerful, and spacious sound, with a presentation that is appealing right from the beginning
- Plenty of power on tap, specified at 70W per channel into 8 ohms and 100W per channel into 4 ohms
- Fantastic connectivity, with three pairs of line-level inputs, an MM phono stage, and outputs for a recorder and subwoofer
- Capable network DAC/streamer with digital controls
Product Considerations
- The dimpled effect flanking the extruded front panel gives the unit a further distinctive look, but the finish feels like plastic upon closer inspection
- The HEOS app isn't bespoke to the 40n, many of the product's set-up options can only be accessed through the unit using the included remote control
- Bluetooth pairing took longer than expected, and there were occasions when the app stopped being able to see or display the music server when switching inputs
- The lettering on the remote control is impossible to read in dim light, and the buttons are too similar in size, resulting in fumbling in the dark
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Marantz Model 40n is a different proposition compared to the Marantz PM7000N, Marantz is keen to reposition itself as a luxury hifi brand and that intent is clear in the 40n's gorgeous build and aesthetics
- Rival systems such as the Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and Naim Uniti Atom do a better job of engrossing listeners in the music, being more insightful, musically engaging, and dynamically exciting by degrees
- Is super-sexy and distinctive styling, a higher level of fit and finish, a much better remote, and access to Sound United's HEOS streaming/multiroom audio platform wanted—or more coaxial and optical digital inputs, Dirac Live room-correction capabilities, more power, a more efficient topology, and access to Lenbrook's BluOS streaming/multiroom audio platform
- At first glance it's hard to distinguish the Model 40n from its slightly costlier Marantz Model 30 sibling
Takeaway: The Marantz Model 40n is a stylish and feature-packed streaming amplifier that offers a musical and inviting performance. With its versatile connectivity options and impressive sound quality, the Model 40n is a great choice for modern, lifestyle hifi systems.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Improved battery management offering faster charging rates and better efficiency than its predecessor
- Features a new USB-C data input for greater flexibility alongside other inputs
- Offers the world's first lossless DSP for tone adjustments without degrading sound quality, providing customization options
- Excellent resolution and dynamics with a large soundstage and extreme detail
Product Considerations
- The Mojo 2 can get warm when in a pocket for a period of time
- Complicated menu navigation with color-coded buttons that may require the manual
- Still uses Micro-USB for charging, which some find outdated
Takeaway: The Chord Mojo 2 is an exceptional DAC/headphone amplifier for those seeking high-resolution audio and customized sound in a portable format that is easy to move. Its sonic accuracy, detailed soundstage, and improved features provide a versatile and enjoyable listening experience, making it a worthwhile consideration for audio enthusiasts.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Versatile connectivity with both wireless (Bluetooth 5.1 with various codecs) and wired options (USB, S/PDIF, analog inputs) makes it suitable for various setups—from desktop to portable usage
- Eloquent, informative, and entertaining sound quality, able to produce clear, non-artificial sound across different headphones
- Features such as XBass II and XSpace provide additional sound shaping options for the user to customize the sound to their liking
- The aluminum build provides a robust and premium feel, with a design that's described as sleek and comfortable to handle
Product Considerations
- The user interface is not very intuitive
- Decent headphones are needed to reveal its quality
- The OLED screen can be difficult to read
- Battery life is around six to eight hours
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the hip-dac2, the Gryphon offers better sound quality, more features, and flexibility
- Compared to the iFi GO bar, the Gryphon is bigger and has a built-in battery, and the GO bar is much smaller and draws power from the source device
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo, the Diablo has more power for very demanding headphones, Gryphon has more functions
- Compared to the Zen DAC, the xDSD Gryphon has a more sophisticated and detailed sound
Takeaway: The iFi xDSD Gryphon is a portable and versatile device delivering high-quality sound with extensive features that cater to audiophiles. Its ability to improve sound quality from various sources and its robust build make it a worthwhile investment for music lovers on the go.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Punchy and musical performer
- BluOS is a treat to operate
- Convenient design as a source and amplifier in one, only needing speakers to complete the system
- Engagingly musical performer—dynamically fluid and punchy, with plenty of energy
- More neutral sounding now, making gains in clarity and insight across the frequency range
- Connectivity options are through 3.5mm headphone-type connectors, shared with mini-TosLink connections
Product Considerations
- Tough competition from other streaming amplifiers
- No way to send data out to an external DAC
- The Powernode was occasionally hard on transients and dynamic bursts
- There is no included remote
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Marantz has a wider-scale, roomier soundstage and greater subtlety
Takeaway: The Bluesound Powernode is a superb streaming amplifier that is better than ever, offering excellent sonic talent and a well-rounded feature set. It provides a convenient and high-quality music experience for anyone looking to simplify their home audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Fully balanced technology, with balanced inputs and outputs.
- Delivers powerful amplification, with up to 7.5 watts of power, capable of driving a wide range of headphones, including hard-to-drive models.
- Features a linear power supply with a large transformer and capacitor bank, providing a stable and powerful power source.
- Provides two current modes (50mA and 100mA) to tailor the sound tonality, allowing users to choose between a more forward/analytical sound and a warmer/fuller sound.
- Employs an R2R network for volume control, ensuring channel balance even at low volumes.
Product Considerations
- Runs quite hot due to its Class A amplification, requiring adequate ventilation, with chassis temperatures potentially reaching up to 50 degrees Celsius, and the unit may switch from 100mA to 50mA mode if it overheats.
- High power output might not be ideal for very sensitive IEMs, potentially limiting volume control flexibility.
- The preamplifier output is always active, meaning it doesn't mute when headphones are plugged in, requiring caution to prevent damage.
- The LCD display cannot be dimmed or switched off, and the red color of the 100mA mode may appear washed out.
- Some report volume slots are not regular or have large jumps, and/or that the remote control can be buggy.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Topping A90 Discrete: The S17 has a richer sound, wider soundstage, and easier dynamics, especially in 100mA mode, placing it in a higher tier.
- Vs. Topping A90D: The S17 Pro is capable of even stronger dynamic swings, with a slightly cleaner and less cluttered soundstage.
- Vs. Violectric V222: The Aune S17 Pro is more 'tubey' and warmer sounding than the V222.
- Vs. HIFIMAN EF600: The Aune S17 has better volume control, higher dynamic range, better driving power, and better resolution.
Takeaway: The Aune S17 Pro is a powerful and versatile headphone amplifier that delivers rich, detailed sound, allowing listeners to experience music in new ways. With its balanced design and flexible current modes, it can enhance a wide range of headphones and audio setups.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Very clean, smooth, and enjoyable sound without harsh edges or digitization
- Plenty of power for a wide range of headphones and IEMs due to its 3.8 watts into a 32 ohm load
- Comes with a linear power supply that provides clean power and minimizes noise
- Includes a remote control that can also control the matching DAC
- Offers versatile connectivity with balanced and single-ended pre-outputs, as well as multiple line inputs
Product Considerations
- 4.4mm connections are used for balanced input/output, which may require purchasing new cables if existing XLR cables are already owned
- The VU meter on the front of the device may not be very useful for normal listening levels
- Settings are not held when the amplifier is turned off
- There is noise in headphones when the unit is turned off or on from standby mode
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Burson Audio Soloist 3XP: Champ provides more body and weight to the sound, while the Soloist 3XP offers greater space and separation
Takeaway: The CH-Amp is a compact and versatile amplifier that delivers a clean and enjoyable sound, making it a great choice for those looking for a high-quality listening experience. Its ability to pair well with a variety of headphones and IEMs makes it a worthwhile addition to any setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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