SP3 vs Acurus ACT 4
The ACT 4's signal-to-noise is 110 dB against the SP3's 100 dB, its thd 0.020% against 0.006%, its output voltage 3.5V RMS against 2.0V RMS, and its weight 13.6 kg (30 lbs) against 8.16 kg (18 lbs).
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Estimated price (community-sourced)
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
The Bryston SP3 is a surround sound processor and preamplifier that supports 7.1, 6.1, and 5.1 surround sound formats. It features Class A discrete analog circuits throughout, separate power supplies for analog and digital sections to minimize noise, and a modular design for future upgrades. The SP3 offers eight HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs, along with multiple digital inputs including coaxial, optical, AES/EBU, and USB supporting up to 192kHz/24-bit and DSD 2x. It provides both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) 7.1 outputs, each with its own discrete Class A low-level output amplifier. The unit can operate in digital processing mode or analog bypass mode, where the digital circuitry is completely bypassed for pure analog signal paths. It supports Dolby True HD, DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Digital Plus, Pro Logic IIx, and other surround decoding formats. The SP3 emphasizes audio purity over video processing, passing video signals through HDMI unchanged without any video scaling or on-screen displays. It includes features like xtraBass for enhanced LFE bass management and offers extensive control options including RS-232 for integration with control systems. The SP3 is built in Canada and carries a 5-year warranty on its digital circuits. It is available in black or silver with optional rack mount ears.
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
Components that show up alongside the SP3 in real systems. A verdict means the pair has been checked for compatibility and headroom — open it to see how the two get along.
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The ACT 4's signal-to-noise is 110 dB against the SP3's 100 dB, its thd 0.020% against 0.006%, its output voltage 3.5V RMS against 2.0V RMS, and its weight 13.6 kg (30 lbs) against 8.16 kg (18 lbs).
The Overdrive SX's signal-to-noise is 106 dB against the SP3's 100 dB and its thd 0.001% against 0.006%. Both share bit depth (24-bit) and max sample rate (192 kHz).
The MX122's bit depth is 32-bit against the SP3's 24-bit, its signal-to-noise 96 dB against 100 dB, and its thd 0.005% against 0.006%. Both share max sample rate (192 kHz).
The C2800's thd is 0.080% against the SP3's 0.006%. Both share bit depth (24-bit), max sample rate (192 kHz), and signal-to-noise (100 dB).
McIntosh MX123
McIntosh C55
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