Burmester 956 MK2 Power Amplifier

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The Burmester 956 MK2 Power Amplifier brings engineering developed for Burmester’s larger 911 and 909 amplifiers into the Classic Line. Delivering 240 watts per channel into 4 ohms, the 956 MK2 combines a fully balanced architecture, Class A X-Amp input stages, massive power reserves and extremely high loudspeaker control in an amplifier built for demanding high-end systems.

For systems requiring even greater output, the 956 MK2 can be bridged to deliver 500 watts into 4 ohms as a mono amplifier. Multiple 956 MK2 amplifiers can also be configured for bi-amplification, giving the platform substantial flexibility as a system evolves.

Class A X-Amp Technology

The 956 MK2 uses Burmester’s proprietary X-Amp technology operating in Class A in the input stages. The amplifier is fully balanced and completely DC-coupled, eliminating coupling capacitors from the signal path.

Burmester combines this architecture with low overall negative feedback and exceptionally wide bandwidth. The published frequency response extends from below 10 Hz to 220 kHz at -3 dB, giving the amplifier considerable bandwidth beyond the audible spectrum.

High-Current Power Delivery

The 956 MK2 is engineered around an oversized power supply to provide substantial current reserves for difficult loudspeaker loads. Its output architecture is designed to remain stable across the frequency range while maintaining control as loudspeaker impedance and current demand change.

At 240 watts per channel into 4 ohms, the 956 MK2 has the output capability for large floorstanding loudspeakers and demanding reference systems. More importantly, its combination of current delivery, low output impedance and high damping factor gives the amplifier the electrical control required to manage difficult driver loads.

Damping Factor Greater Than 1,000

Burmester specifies a damping factor greater than 1,000 into 4 ohms for the current 956 MK2 specification. This high damping factor allows the amplifier to exert substantial electrical control over connected loudspeaker drivers, particularly large low-frequency drivers whose movement must be controlled as precisely as it is initiated.

Combined with a signal-to-noise ratio greater than 103 dB and THD+N below 0.005%, the 956 MK2 is engineered to deliver substantial power without sacrificing the low noise and resolution expected from Burmester electronics.

500-Watt Mono Operation

Although designed as a stereo amplifier, the 956 MK2 can be converted to bridged mono operation using Burmester mono adapters.

In mono configuration, output increases to 500 watts into 4 ohms. When a pair of 956 MK2 amplifiers is ordered specifically for mono operation, Burmester can configure the amplifiers internally at the factory.

This provides a natural upgrade path. A system can begin with a single 956 MK2 operating in stereo and later move to a pair of dedicated mono amplifiers as the loudspeakers, room or listening requirements evolve.

Bi-Amping Capability

The 956 MK2 also supports bi-amplification using Burmester bi-amping adapters.

With compatible loudspeakers that provide separate access to their low-frequency and mid/high-frequency sections, multiple 956 MK2 amplifiers can independently drive different portions of the loudspeaker system.

The ability to operate in stereo, bridged mono or bi-amped configurations makes the 956 MK2 unusually adaptable for a reference power amplifier.

Balanced System Integration

Balanced connections are provided for stereo and mono operation. Unbalanced sources can also be connected in stereo using the supplied adapters.

A 10V DC remote input allows compatible Burmester preamplifiers and D/A converters with variable outputs to remotely switch the amplifier on and off. Loudspeaker connections are made through Burmester’s substantial binding posts, designed for spade-terminated speaker cables.

Protection Outside the Signal Path

The 956 MK2 continuously monitors operating conditions for overheating, DC offset and overdrive.

Burmester deliberately places this protection circuitry outside the audio signal path. The amplifier and connected loudspeakers therefore receive active protection without requiring the monitoring circuit itself to become part of the music signal path.

Technical Details

These figures reflect Burmester’s current 956 MK2 product-information sheet. Earlier technical documentation lists slightly different measurements and specifications, including 482 × 191 × 482 mm, approximately 30 kg, 34 A continuous peak current, a damping factor above 2,000, a 600VA transformer and 188,000 µF of main filter capacitance. Because Burmester’s newer product sheet revises several of those published measurements, the table above uses the newer specifications rather than mixing generations of technical data.

Burmester 956 MK2 at The Grid HiFi

The Grid HiFi in Houston specializes in Burmester high-end audio and complete reference two-channel systems. The 956 MK2 is particularly compelling because it provides a clear system-growth path, from a powerful stereo amplifier to dual mono or bi-amplified configurations.

We can build the complete system around the 956 MK2, matching it with the appropriate Burmester preamplifier and source components, reference loudspeakers, cabling and power infrastructure.

Complimentary White Glove Delivery • Travel Reimbursement*
Qualifying purchasers may receive airfare reimbursement for your private audition.
Considering the 956 MK2? Let’s build your dream system around it. Call (713) 218-8120.
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