Burmester 808 MK5 Reference Preamplifier

Complimentary White Glove Delivery • Travel Reimbursement*

The Burmester 808 MK5 Preamplifier is one of the defining products in Burmester history and a cornerstone of the company’s Reference Line. First introduced as the 808 in 1980 and continuously refined through successive generations, the MK5 combines a completely modular signal architecture, separate external power supply and extraordinary configuration flexibility in a preamplifier built for uncompromising reference systems.

Rather than forcing every system through a predetermined collection of inputs and outputs, the 808 MK5 can be individually configured with the modules required for the system it will control. Balanced and unbalanced line-level sources, MM and MC phono playback, multiple outputs and specialized system configurations can be accommodated within the 808 platform.

This modular approach also means the 808 MK5 can evolve with the system around it, making it fundamentally different from a conventional fixed-configuration preamplifier.

Modular Reference Architecture

The 808 MK5 is built around a modular architecture with capacity for up to six input modules and two independently controllable output modules. Input positions can be configured for balanced XLR or unbalanced RCA operation depending on the selected module.

This allows the preamplifier to be configured around the owner's actual source components instead of routing every source through unnecessary circuitry.

Line-level, phono and specialized modules can be selected to create anything from a focused reference digital system to an extensive analog system incorporating multiple source components and turntables.

Separate External Power Supply

A defining element of the 808 MK5 is its separate external power supply.

Removing the power supply from the main preamplifier chassis physically separates the sensitive audio circuitry from major transformers and power-supply components. The dedicated supply is substantial in its own right, weighing approximately 9 kg / 19.8 lb.

The preamplifier itself is constructed on a massive aluminum base and weighs approximately 23 kg / 50.7 lb including its base plate, giving the complete 808 MK5 system a combined weight of roughly 32 kg before cabling.

High-quality mains and power-supply cables are supplied with the system.

Configurable Inputs

The 808 MK5 can accommodate from one to six input modules, allowing its source configuration to be tailored to the individual system.

Available configurations include balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA line-level connections along with dedicated phono modules.

For vinyl systems, the modular architecture allows the 808 MK5 to incorporate MM or MC phono capability directly within the preamplifier rather than requiring a separate external phono stage. The MC architecture can be configured for balanced or unbalanced operation, while MM capability is available for compatible moving-magnet cartridges.

The result is a Reference Line preamplifier that can be purpose-built around the owner's sources.

Independently Controlled Outputs

The output architecture follows the same modular philosophy.

The 808 MK5 supports up to two output modules, with balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA connectivity available depending on configuration. The outputs can be switched and level-controlled independently, providing significantly greater system flexibility than a conventional single-output stereo preamplifier.

This makes sophisticated configurations possible, including systems requiring multiple amplifier feeds or independently controlled output paths.

Reference-Level Construction

The 808 MK5 is built around a massive aluminum component base designed to provide a stable mechanical foundation for its modular electronics.

Burmester's characteristic chrome finish is standard, while historically available special finishes have included black and 24-karat gold versions. The external power supply has also been offered in a Reference Line chassis configuration.

The scale of the construction becomes apparent in the dimensions. The preamplifier chassis measures approximately 19 × 6.7 × 15.2 inches and weighs more than 50 pounds with its base plate, before the separate power supply is considered.

A Burmester Reference Line Legacy

The original 808 arrived in 1980, only three years after Burmester was founded. Its architecture became one of the company's defining designs, and the MK5 represents decades of continued development of the concept.

That longevity is important. The 808 MK5 is not simply another generation of preamplifier. Its modular architecture was conceived at the beginning of the high-end audio era and has remained sufficiently adaptable to continue evolving through multiple generations.

For a system built around Burmester Reference or Signature amplification, the 808 MK5 provides an appropriately ambitious analog control center.

Technical Details

The published specifications confirm the 808 MK5's modular capacity of up to six inputs and two outputs, independently controllable output architecture, separate 9 kg power supply and approximately 23 kg preamplifier chassis.

Burmester 808 MK5 at The Grid HiFi

The Grid HiFi in Houston specializes in Burmester Reference systems and world-class two-channel audio. A component such as the 808 MK5 should not be treated as an isolated purchase. Its modular construction allows the preamplifier to be configured specifically around the sources, amplification and loudspeakers that make up the complete system.

We can configure the 808 MK5 around your digital and analog sources, specify the appropriate input and output modules, and build the complete reference system around Burmester amplification, world-class loudspeakers, turntables, cabling and power infrastructure.

Complimentary White Glove Delivery • Travel Reimbursement*
Qualifying purchasers may receive airfare reimbursement for your private audition.
Considering this piece? Let’s build your dream system around it. Call (713) 218-8120.
*Restrictions apply. Contact us for details.