AB160

About the AB160

The Burson AB-160 is a dual mono audio buffer stage featuring extremely short signal paths (less than 6 cm) and a high sensitivity input buffer (HSIB) based on FET technology. It operates fully balanced in pure class A mode without any integrated circuits, using only discrete, high-quality semiconductor devices for superior sound quality. The unit is housed in a resonance-free aluminum enclosure milled from 6mm slabs, which also acts as a heat sink. It includes a low noise, regulated power supply built with discrete regulator devices, and uses premium components such as Elna Audio graded capacitors, DALE military graded resistors, and carefully matched audio transistors, all hand-soldered. The AB-160 offers a wide bandwidth frequency response from 0 to 220 kHz (-3 dB) and a very low noise floor with a signal-to-noise ratio of -120 dB. It has dual switch-selectable stereo analog inputs via RCA jacks and provides about 6 dB of gain. The buffer is designed to be placed between digital sources like CD players or DACs and preamplifiers to reduce output impedance (typically from 100-1000 ohms down to 15-30 ohms), resulting in improved micro and macro dynamics, better bass control, and enhanced overall musicality. The build quality is robust with a camera-like fit and finish, making it a highly regarded upgrade in the high-end audio community.