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
- Exceptional clarity and resolution, providing a wonderful sense of detail and transparency
- Spectacular imaging and soundstage are consistently praised, with reviewers noting the precise focus and wide, deep soundstage
- Extremely powerful and high current, capable of driving even difficult-to-drive speakers to magnificent levels
- Well-judged bass, with definition, grip, and control that provides both quality and quantity
- Innovative technology—the combination of Class A and Class AB modes, supercharger, and active cooling
Product Considerations
- No volume control, requiring an external preamplifier or DAC with volume control
- Switching between inputs requires manual adjustment on the back of each amplifier, making it less convenient for frequent switching
- A potential issue with the 12V trigger functionality was noted, where the Timekeepers may turn on even when the connected Soloist 3X GT is in headphone mode
- On the high gain setting, the upper midrange can be a bit aggressive
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Timekeeper GT has better imaging and focus than the Enleum AMP23R
- The Timekeeper GT creates a larger soundstage than the Benchmark AHB2, a little warmer sounding in the mid-range, transparent and detailed
- The Hegel H190 has a wider and deeper soundstage, but for clarity, grip and control, the Timekeeper GT is better
- The Timekeeper GT can match the Denafrips Hades/Thalo in terms of clarity, but dynamically it is lighter, tonally thinner and has an even more diminished sense of scale
Takeaway: The Burson Timekeeper GT monoblocks are suitable for audiophiles looking for power and clarity. Fantastic soundstage and imaging allows one to enjoy music without coloration.
All
Timekeeper 3X GT
reviews
Manufacturer details
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.
Used
Burson
What if you spend more?
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The Solois Voyager is our flagship Headphone Amp / Preamp. By incorporating every uniquely Burson technology, from our Max Current power supply to V7 discrete opamps, and from Silent Power Modules to the Gen 2 Cool Case, we have created the purest 10Wpc Class-A headphone amplifier in the world that looks as hot as it sounds.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Offers dynamic expression with 'startling slammy energy' throughout the audio band
- Transcribes subtle detail
- Described as having a rich sound
- Can be used as a system preamplifier
- Has a quieter internal cooling fan compared to the Soloist 3XGT
Product Considerations
- The top of the chassis can become hot to the touch after extended use
- Display cannot be turned off
- Does not allow headphone output balance to be adjusted
- Uses a capturing 4-pin XLR output socket that requires a latch to be pressed
- May be 'just a bit too much on the rich side' for some listeners, especially those who prefer chamber music and un-amplified jazz
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Benchmark HPA4—the Soloist Voyager offers more dynamic expression
- Vs Soloist 3X GT—the Soloist Voyager has sonic performance gains
- Vs Soloist 3X GT—the Soloist Voyager has a more pleasing sound
- Vs Chord Ultima 3 Pre—the Soloist Voyager is a more 'honest' sounding preamplifier
Takeaway: The Soloist Voyager is a powerful amplifier that offers a rich sound and dynamic expression, making it enjoyable for many types of music. It can also function as a preamplifier, increasing its versatility.
Video review
Our take on the brand
The Conductor GT4 is the result of 20 years of evolution, significantly surpassing the GT3. For the first time, it features six stackable Max-Current Power Modules and seven noise-filtering SP Modules, enabling a new dual DAC architecture. Taking advantage of its superior power supplies, we have adopted an American-made power transistor that further enhances the Burson Sound. These breakthrough technologies combine to elevate the GT4 to unparalleled performance heights.
Product Strengths
- Delivers a lot of power without a lot of noise, aiming to take noise reduction to the next level, delivering 10W of pure class A power
- Improved DAC setup provides better channel separation, lower crosstalk, and greater detail delivery, now using a single DAC chip per channel
- Reduced noise results in clearer imaging and detail, providing a general sense of greater refinement in the sound without losing the bold sound that characterizes Burson Amps
- Versatile device with all-in-one features of a DAC and amp with the ability to run as a standalone amp or DAC, plus a wide variety of connectivity options
- It now has two smaller and much more efficient coolers than the GT3, so it is whisper quiet compared to the GT3
Product Considerations
- Some pops through speaker systems might occur, but this can be mitigated with the use of 12V trigger outputs
- The GT4 may have an aggressive top end, and could be too bright when paired with brighter sounding headphones
- Navigating the menus with just the volume knob can feel clunky, and the knob will occasionally register a tick in the wrong direction
- The Conductor GT4 may not be ideal for ultra-sensitive IEMs due to a potentially audible hiss, especially on high gain
- Analog inputs on the back of the Conductor GT4 will resample the audio, so it won't retain the analog purity coming from a turntable
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The GT4 has a better sense of space, separation, detail, and clarity due to a lower noise floor and improved design, compared to the Burson Audio Conductor GT3
- The GT4 provides more nuances in guitar and vocals, making the experience more lifelike and detailed, which is not present in the FIIO K19
- It is more convenient as a smaller, single-block solution, though the Holo Audio Daisy might net a slightly better soundstage, compared to the Holo Audio Daisy DAC and HeadAmp Soloist headphone amp
- The Conductor 3 Reference is warmer sounding, so it may be better suited for brighter headphones, compared to the Burson Audio Conductor 3 Reference
Takeaway: The Conductor GT4 is a versatile and powerful all-in-one DAC/Amp with a refined sound, especially with its noise reduction improvements. It's an excellent option for audiophiles who want a high-end experience without spending a fortune and also want a convenient, all-in-one device.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Tomorrow's Hi-Fi, Today
With Evo 150, we've brought your audio past and present into the future. With outstanding Hypex NCore Class D amplification and our class-leading StreamMagic streaming platform on board, all you need to do is add speakers to enjoy superb high-resolution audio quality from one elegant, discreet box.
And thanks to its suite of digital and analogue inputs, as well as its high-quality digital-to-analogue converter, Evo can be the heart of your hi-fi system for years to come.
Evo 150
Easy to Set Up, Easy to Upgrade
It couldn't be simpler. Connect Evo 150 to the mains and to your speakers. Open StreamMagic, connect to the network, then fire up your favourite music streaming service. Pick a tune, press play and adjust the volume to suit. When you're ready, you can dig deeper to set Evo 150 up just how you want it, adding functionality as you go.
Evo 150 playing through the StreamMagic App
StreamMagic App
Our StreamMagic app offers full control of Evo, plus access to the world's most popular and high-resolution music streaming services. It's clear, logical and stable – so Evo will do precisely what you want. Alternatively, you may prefer to use the app of your favourite streaming service. Evo's ready for you to listen whichever way you choose.
Model watches TV with Evo in view
Connectivity to Suit Your Needs
Thanks to its suite of digital and analogue inputs, including a built-in phono stage, Evo can be the heart of your system – add a turntable, say, or EVO CD. Video sources can play too, just connect your TV's HDMI output to Evo's ARC input. No matter where your music comes from, Evo 150's ready for it.
Model listens to Evo via headphones
Bluetooth Convenience. Hi-Res Sound Quality
Often nothing's more convenient than streaming via Bluetooth. Evo takes it to the max with aptX HD Bluetooth, which features wireless, high-definition music streaming from compatible devices – including our Alva turntables. And because Evo also transmits with Bluetooth aptx HD, it's perfect for private listening on compatible Hi-Res wireless headphones.
Evo in a lifestyle setting with a turntable and books
Made By Music
Evo 150 uses the best audio components, such as the ESS SABRE ES9018k2m Reference DAC. And then we bring every one of our 55+ years of audio know-how to bear. The result is a performance that celebrates the talent of musicians and producers – one that retains the original raw emotive power and detail.
Model turns the volume knob on Evo
Complete Control
Evo is intuitive and straightforward to operate, no matter if you're using its supplied remote control, our simple yet thorough StreamMagic app, or its physical controls – including the large dual-concentric dial on the unit's fascia.
Evo on a shelf in a lifestyle setting
Neat and Easy Placement
At 317mm wide, roughly the size of a vinyl album sleeve, Evo will sit neatly where you need it to. But thanks to its award-winning deisgn and all-around good looks, it really deserves to be centre stage.
Model adds a vinyl record to Alva
Great for Record Lovers
If you want to connect a turntable, Evo 150's built-in phono stage makes it perfect for decks with with moving magnet cartridges, but no integral pre-amp. That's on top of Bluetooth compatibility with our own Alva turntables.
Evo CD
A New Life for CD
Available separately, Evo CD is the compact disc transport developed to exclusively partner Evo all-in-one players. It shares the same eye-catching design, is crafted from the same premium materials and is engineered to the same exacting standards. Evo CD extracts every piece of musical detail from your discs, then passes it seamlessly to Evo. Your CD collection is now set to join the hi-fi evolution.
Detail shot
Designed to Thrill, Built to Last
Evo's confident sound, timeless looks and premium materials mean that you've found your new long-term musical partner – bringing pleasure to both your ears and eyes for many years to come.
Product Strengths
- Packs many features into a small frame, offering an 'all-in-one' solution by integrating streaming, DAC, preamp, and amplification
- The sound quality is clear, detailed, smooth, refined, articulate, and neutral, with good soundstage and imaging
- Offers a wide array of input options (analog and digital) and streaming service compatibility, making it versatile
- Its Class D amplification (Hypex NCore) is powerful (150Wpc) and efficient, running cool compared to traditional amps
- The industrial design and aesthetics are highlighted positively, with its sleek look, swappable side panels, and user-friendly interface, enhancing its lifestyle appeal
Product Considerations
- The headphone preamp may not satisfy serious headphone enthusiasts without a dedicated amp
- There is a noted lack of bass management
- The StreamMagic app lags behind the likes of Bluesound and Yamaha MusicCast in terms of its interface
- Some reviewers found a slight softening of the bottom end
- One review notes some power supply noise in bench tests, but at inaudible levels
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Offers wider soundstage, depth, and polish than the Naim Uniti Atom, but the Naim Uniti Atom has a greater sense of musicality and tighter rhythmic fabric
Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Evo 150 is a versatile and attractive all-in-one system with excellent sound quality and a comprehensive feature set, making it a great choice for those seeking a simple yet high-performing audio solution. It provides a streamlined experience without sacrificing sound fidelity.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Offers a comprehensive and flexible specification, functioning as a headphone amplifier and streaming preamp
- Produces superb sound quality, described as clear, pure, detailed, dynamic, and musical, without being overly analytical, regardless of genre or recording quality
- Features a well-made, elegant, and attractive design with a beautiful screen for album art and a satisfying volume control
- Supports a comprehensive range of streaming services and digital formats including AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Bluetooth, UPnP, and Internet Radio, and is Roon Ready
- Intuitive and stable app, especially for those who know what they want to listen to
Product Considerations
- The price is high relative to other headphone amplifiers/DACs on the market
- The front display is not a touchscreen
- Some might prefer a more analytical sound presentation
- The HDMI ARC connection is absent
- The Naim app lacks polish compared to dedicated music apps
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and NAD M10—the Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is specifically focused on headphone use
- As a headphone amp, it is every bit as good as the Chord Hugo TT2
- Naim puts less of itself into the performance as opposed to McIntosh MHA200
Takeaway: The Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is a great self-contained system for headphone listening, with an easy-to-use interface and a beautiful design. It is a quality product that can be a centerpiece for your home audio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
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Our Summary
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
Our Summary
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
Our Summary
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
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Offers a comprehensive set of features including CD player, streamer, Bluetooth, headphone amplifier, phono amplifier, and power amplifier, all in one box
- Sounds very good across digital and analogue inputs, the combination of digital decoding and amplification is exceptionally cohesive
- Has a sturdy, well-built casework that feels every inch of its price tag, and is built to last
- Provides clear, detailed and large, spacious sound with an easy-going presentation, and can be part of an expansive wireless multi-room system
- Incorporates a high-quality ESS Sabre DAC and amplifier based on the Audiolab 6000A design
Product Considerations
- The software interface using DTS Play-Fi is a little slow, and Play-Fi is still not gapless, Play-Fi is not delivering at the same level of user experience as competitor solutions
- Rivals have greater dynamic punch, rhythmic accuracy, and energy
- Some reviewers find that the unit can be a bit sensitive with scratched CDs
- Remote and fascia controls aren't all that responsive
- There is no album art displayed on the screen during streaming
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Technics SA-C600, the Technics may not be as big-scaled, open or reveal as much detail as the Audiolab Omnia, but it's more adept at conveying enthusiasm, rhythmic precision and dynamic punch
- In direct competition with the Cambridge Audio Evo 75, the Audiolab Omnia ties Audiolab styling touches into something that is not slavishly retro and gives away absolutely nothing in terms of feel, solidarity and design
- Compared to the NAD C700, the Audiolab Omnia has functionality they cannot get anywhere near—indeed functionality that leaves everything else under two grand looking rather limited
Takeaway: The Audiolab Omnia is a versatile and well-built all-in-one system that offers a wide range of features and delivers enjoyable sound, making it a great option for those seeking convenience without sacrificing audio quality. It's especially appealing for those who still value CD playback.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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