The Burmester stereo power amplifier 956 MK 2 is a proud descendent of Burmester’s internationally highly acclaimed family of power amps 911 and 909. The reference amp 909 has marked the pinnacle of audio amplification since 1990. Many of the insights gained in designing the 909 have influenced the concept of the 956 MK 2. Like the legendary preamplifier 808 the 956 MK 2 is of modular design with the advantage that older models can easily be upgraded to the latest version.
The 956 MK 2 like all Burmester amplifiers is a stereo amp. However, all Burmester stereo amps can easily be bridged into mono operation using external mono adapters. If two amps are ordered as a mono pair, we will bridge the amps internally at the factory free of charge. The rise time (the quickness of the amp) is the same whether it operates in stereo or mono mode. Furthermore, we offer bi-amping adapters for using a pair of 956 MK 2 with speakers that require bi-amping. All Burmester amplifiers are run through a long battery of tests to make sure each one conforms to the reference prototype. After the first computer-aided set of about 300 test measurements the units are burnt-in at nominal load for a week. After that Burmester runs a second set of the same computer-aided tests. Only when the two results are identical will a unit be released for a listening test. If this final test meets our standards the unit will be packed and shipped. By this arduous process of testing and re-testing, the goal is to make sure that each 956 MK 2 fulfills Burmester’s guarantee of reliability and musicality to our customers.
Bridgeable into mono operation by external mono adapters or internally at the factory when ordering a pair of 956 mono amps
Bi-amping with the use of external bi-amping adapters
Balanced circuitry throughout like all Burmester components
Input stages in proprietary X-Amp technology (Class A)
Low overall negative feedback
Signal path completely DC-coupled, no distorting capacitors
High current delivery capabilities due to an oversized power supply
High damping factor enables effortless control of any speaker over the entire frequency range, even at high frequencies
Stable at any load over the entire frequency range
Massive binding posts for connection of speaker cables (use only spade plugs!)
Remote on/off switching in connection with Burmester pre-amps and D/A converters with variable output (remote control current: 10V DC)
A protection circuit outside of the signal path monitors the 956 during operation for overheating, DC offset and overdrive.
