Bryston BP-3 MM Moving Magnet Phono Preamplifier

The Bryston BP-3 MM is a dedicated high-performance phono preamplifier designed for Moving Magnet and high-output Moving Coil cartridges.

A phono cartridge produces one of the smallest signals anywhere in an audio system. The job of the phono stage is to amplify that tiny signal while applying accurate RIAA equalization—and do it without burying the music in added noise or distortion.

That's exactly what the BP-3 MM is designed to do.

With 41dB of gain, Class A discrete amplification, ultra-precise RIAA equalization and configurable capacitive loading, the BP-3 MM is a straightforward, purpose-built phono stage for serious vinyl playback.

41dB of Phono Gain

The BP-3 MM provides 41dB of gain for:

• Moving Magnet cartridges
• High-output Moving Coil cartridges

There's no unnecessary digital processing, streaming circuitry or additional source switching inside the chassis.

The BP-3 MM has one job: take the signal from your cartridge and accurately prepare it for your main preamplifier or integrated amplifier.

Class A Discrete Amplification

Bryston uses Class A discrete operational amplifiers in the BP-3 MM.

That's particularly important in a phono stage because the incoming signal from the cartridge can be only a few millivolts.

Noise and distortion introduced at this point in the system will be amplified along with the music, making the quality of the phono stage especially important.

The BP-3 MM achieves THD+N of less than 0.005% from 20Hz to 20kHz.

Ultra-Precise RIAA Equalization

Records are intentionally cut with a modified frequency response.

During playback, the phono preamplifier must accurately apply the inverse RIAA equalization curve to restore the correct tonal balance of the recording.

Bryston uses ultra-precise RIAA equalization in the BP-3 MM to maintain accuracy as the cartridge signal is amplified.

Configurable Cartridge Loading

The BP-3 MM can be internally configured for capacitive loading.

This allows the phono stage to be more precisely matched to the electrical characteristics of the cartridge.

That's especially useful with Moving Magnet cartridges, where cartridge loading and cable capacitance can influence frequency response and overall system performance.

The Grid can help determine the appropriate setup based on the cartridge and turntable being used.

External Bryston Power Supply Required

The BP-3 MM does not contain its own AC power supply.

It must be used with either the:

• Bryston PS-3
• Bryston MPS-2

Keeping the power supply in a separate chassis helps physically isolate the sensitive phono circuitry from AC transformer and power-supply noise.

The BP-3's compact chassis can then be positioned near the turntable or main preamplifier.

Simple, Purpose-Built Design

Connectivity is intentionally straightforward:

• RCA phono input
• RCA analog output

A front-panel Mute switch provides convenient control when changing records or working with the turntable.

There are no menus, apps or digital functions to deal with. Connect the turntable, connect the BP-3 MM to your preamplifier, add the appropriate Bryston power supply and play records.

Key Specifications

• Type: Moving Magnet Phono Preamplifier
• Compatible Cartridges: MM and High-Output MC
• Gain: 41dB
• Amplification: Class A discrete operational amplifiers
• RIAA Equalization: Ultra-precise
• Capacitive Loading: Internally configurable
• Analog Input: RCA
• Analog Output: RCA
• THD+N: <0.005%, 20Hz–20kHz
• Noise: <-80dB referenced to 5mV input
• Mute: Front-panel switch
• Power Supply: External Bryston PS-3 or MPS-2 required
• Dimensions: 5.7" W × 2.75" H × 8.25" D
• Weight: 3.6 lbs. / 1.6 kg
• Made in Canada

Available Finishes

The Bryston BP-3 MM is available with several faceplate finishes:

• Silver
• Black
• White
• Gun Metal Grey
• Champagne

BP-3 MM or BP-3 MC?

The difference comes down to the cartridge.

The BP-3 MM provides 41dB of gain and is designed for Moving Magnet and high-output Moving Coil cartridges.

The BP-3 MC adds transformer-based gain for low-output Moving Coil cartridges.

If you're using a quality MM cartridge—or a high-output MC that works properly with a conventional MM phono input—the BP-3 MM gives you the Bryston phono stage without paying for Moving Coil capability you don't need.

If you're using a low-output Moving Coil cartridge, the BP-3 MC is the appropriate version.

Experience Bryston Analog at The Grid HiFi

The Grid HiFi is your Bryston, turntable and high-end analog audio expert in Houston, Texas.

The phono stage is only one part of getting a vinyl system right. The cartridge, tonearm, phono stage and loading all need to work together.

The Grid can help determine whether the BP-3 MM or BP-3 MC is appropriate for your cartridge, select the correct PS-3 or MPS-2 power supply, and match the complete analog system around your turntable.

We can also professionally install and align your cartridge, including proper tracking force, cartridge alignment, VTA and azimuth where applicable.

Contact The Grid HiFi for Bryston BP-3 MM availability, cartridge compatibility, power supply selection and professional turntable setup.