Burmester 151 Mk2 Music Centre

The 151 Music Centre is the smaller counterpart to the Reference Line 111 Music Centre and functions as a high-end music server. Like the Reference 111, it combines exceptional sonic performance with the ability to process even large volumes of data quickly. The 151 Music Centre can be used with a fixed output level in a system incorporating a preamplifier, or alternatively with its variable output section connected directly to power amplifiers or active loudspeakers.

In addition to insights from the development of the Reference Line 111 Music Centre and the experience gained since its release, feedback, ideas, and suggestions from customers have been incorporated to develop a product designed to ensure maximum acceptance and satisfaction.

Analogue Volume Control

The central feature of the 151 Music Centre is its analogue volume control. This offers a key advantage over more common digital volume controls, as it preserves the full resolution of the music without any data reduction, even at low volume levels.

The 151 Music Centre can be connected directly to a power amplifier or active loudspeakers. Due to its increased output voltage in variable volume mode, an additional preamplifier is unnecessary, as the amplification stage is already integrated. These capabilities make the 151 Music Centre ideal as the centrepiece of a flexible high-end system.

The analogue volume control also enables the unit to compensate for volume differences between individual tracks in a playlist, without altering the original dynamics of the music. During the ripping process, each track is analysed using a listening model optimised for medium volume levels, and a correction value is stored in an internal database. During playback, the correction value is automatically applied for smooth, balanced audio output.

Sophisticated Analog Circuitry

The 151 Music Centre is constructed entirely using elaborate balanced circuit technology. Its signal path is exclusively DC-coupled, avoiding the use of coupling capacitors, which could otherwise introduce disturbances. This design choice ensures precise low-frequency reproduction, free from phase shifts in the listening range.

D/A Converter

The analogue output stages receive their signal from a balanced D/A converter at reference level, with switchable sampling rates of 96 kHz and 192 kHz and 24-bit signal processing. The converter receives digital audio data from a sophisticated clock regeneration system that significantly reduces jitter, which can negatively impact sound quality.

Computing Technology

All software for the 151 Music Centre is developed in-house by Burmester’s own team, allowing full control over every aspect of the unit’s performance. This ensures optimal harmony between the software and the processing unit’s motherboard, which has been specifically modified to meet Burmester’s standards, prioritising sonic performance.

Operation

The 151 Music Centre offers multiple methods of operation. Basic functions can be accessed directly on the unit or via the supplied infrared remote control. This allows for adjustments such as volume control or playback pausing at any time, without navigating through menus. The device can also be brought out of standby mode using the remote control.

Full control of all functions is possible via the iPad app in conjunction with the web interface, both of which are developed entirely in-house.

Design

The design of the 151 Music Centre reflects the timeless aesthetic found across Burmester products, featuring clean lines and a signature chrome front. Visually and sonically, the 151 Music Centre integrates seamlessly into the Burmester component lineup.

Data Security and Rip Function

With its integrated drive, the 151 Music Centre can not only play CDs but also rip them in high-end quality to its built-in hard disks. Two mirrored SSD hard disks, each with a capacity of 2 TB (usable capacity approx. 2 TB), ensure the security of the user’s music library. One disk holds the primary music collection, while the second creates a real-time backup.

Before ripping, CD cover, title, and artist information are matched with the Burmester database and automatically added. The user can choose between highest quality ripping and fast mode.

Due to the limitations of normal CD drives, such as limited forward error correction, older or scratched CDs may result in dropouts during audio playback. However, because ripping does not require real-time processing, the 151 Music Centre reads the audio data multiple times to reconstruct it with the highest fidelity. This ensures a flawless data stream and enables musical enjoyment at the highest level.

Network and Wi-Fi

The 151 Music Centre includes an Ethernet port for wired network connection and an integrated WLAN card with two antennas. These antennas operate in parallel to ensure a stable connection and prevent interference caused by multiple signal reflections.

The unit can function as a wireless access point for devices such as an iPad. If no network is available, the 151 Music Centre can still operate in standalone mode, providing all features that do not require an internet connection.

Future-Proof Through Web Access

The 151 Music Centre supports online updates to ensure it remains current. Additional web services and content providers can also be integrated, keeping the system up to date with the latest features and capabilities.

Specifications