Bryston
Expected Oct 10, 2025
BCD-3 CD Player
$4,495.00 USDFeatures
Dual balanced AKM digital to analog converters based on BDA-3 design
Fully discrete class-A operational amplifiers form the analog output section
What's in the Box?
Warranty
While high-resolution digital downloads attract most audiophiles' attention, many music enthusiasts still possess hundreds or even thousands of CDs that demand top-tier playback equipment for optimal sound quality. Although universal disc players or DVD players can handle CDs, they often compromise on delivering the full dynamic range and subtleties that the medium offers, as they cater to multiple formats. The BCD-3 is specifically engineered to elevate the playback quality of your Redbook CDs to extraordinary levels.
Digital audio extracted from CDs is processed by a dual-balanced DAC chipset for precise analog conversion. Bryston's proprietary fully balanced class-A discrete operational amplifiers drive the output stage, ensuring pristine sound reproduction. A professional-grade optical disc transport reads discs, while an ultra-precise master clock synchronizes operations to eliminate jitter and maintain superb linearity. These features collectively deliver the finest sound quality achievable from CDs through the Bryston BCD-3.
For added convenience, the BCD-3 can be integrated into your home network for control via a web-based user interface or home automation system. Alternatively, it can be operated using IR controls such as the Bryston BR-2 or a universal remote.
Dragon Cable Recommendation: We recommend pairing the Bryston BCD-3 CD Player with our popular Silver Dragon Interconnect. Sold in Pairs, the Silver Dragon V2 is our top-of-the-line silver conductor-based interconnect. With a braided geometry and amazing shielding, this interconnect is a remarkable solution where noise isolation is key. Get the best cables for your best audio gear.
Many of us cherish our extensive CD collections, finding joy in their ability to delight us today as much as they did when first acquired. CDs can deliver incredible audio quality, often surpassing that of digital downloads, which continues to resonate with music enthusiasts. For many, learning new digital playback methods can detract from the simple enjoyment of music. If this sentiment resonates with you, the BCD-3 might just be the ultimate CD player you've been searching for.
The Bryston BCD-3 CD Player reaffirms the vitality and richness of CD playback, offering the full dynamic range and nuanced sound that music aficionados demand. While DVD players and other devices may offer CD playback, they often compromise on quality for convenience. Engineered to deliver exceptional sound quality, the BCD-3 ensures that your music sounds nothing short of amazing. Embrace superior playback quality and rediscover the pleasure of your cherished CD collection with the Bryston BCD-3.
Who says CD playback is dead? While high-resolution digital downloads may captivate audiophiles, many music lovers still treasure their extensive CD collections, which deserve the best playback equipment to truly shine. Universal disc players or DVD players might play CDs, but they can't deliver the full dynamic range and nuance the medium offers, as they often sacrifice CD quality to accommodate additional formats. The BCD-3 was explicitly designed to make your Redbook CDs sound phenomenal.
The digital audio from the CD is processed by a dual-balanced DAC chipset, converting it to analog. Bryston's proprietary fully balanced class-A discrete operational amplifiers form the output stage, ensuring pristine sound. A professional-grade optical disc transport reads the discs, synchronized by an ultra-precise master clock to eliminate jitter and maintain superb linearity. The BCD-3 epitomizes zero jitter, exceptional linearity, and the finest sound quality CDs can offer.
Additionally, you can connect the BCD-3 to your home network to control it via a web-based user interface or a home automation system. It also supports IR control with a Bryston BR-2 or a universal remote, offering both versatility and convenience.
Did you say New Remote?
We've heard your cries. The Bryston BR-4 remote control will be included in the box by March 1st, 2020. The new remote is constructed of anodized aluminum with soft-touch buttons.
The BR-2 remains available as a premium upgrade but will likely be discontinued in the future.
About Bryston Amps and Speakers:
Bryston is a leading manufacturer of high-performance audio equipment based in Ontario, Canada, renowned for its powerful and accurate amplifiers and speakers that deliver stunning sound quality. They have been designing and manufacturing state-of-the-art electronics for consumer and audio professional markets for more than 50 years. Since the debut of its first amplifier in 1973, Bryston has grown its product line to encompass a range of world-renowned Amplifiers, Loudspeakers, and Digital Audio Components. Each of Bryston's hand-assembled products is extensively tested before shipment. From their state-of-the-art solid-state amplifiers to innovative products like the Bryston 4B, BDA-3.14, BDP series, Cubed series, and the legendary Bryston 20, their amplifiers, phono preamplifiers, conditioners, and stereo power amplifiers are engineered to extract every nuance from audio sources, revealing details and dynamics that other amplifiers struggle to reproduce. Bryston's extensive lineup of amplifiers spans from compact powerhouses to massively powerful monoblock amplifiers designed to drive the most demanding speakers and subwoofers. Their amplifiers are revered for their ability to deliver a stunningly realistic and immersive soundstage with thunderous dynamics and jaw-dropping accuracy.
From their state-of-the-art solid-state power amps and headphone amplifiers (BHA-1) to innovative products like the Bryston 4B, BDA-3.14, Cubed series, and the legendary Bryston 20, their amplifiers, phono preamplifiers, conditioners, and stereo power amplifiers are engineered to extract every nuance from audio sources, revealing details and dynamics that other amplifiers struggle to reproduce. Bryston's extensive lineup of amplifiers spans from compact powerhouses to massively powerful monoblock amplifiers designed to drive the most demanding speakers and subwoofers. Their amplifiers are revered for their ability to deliver a stunningly realistic and immersive soundstage with thunderous dynamics and jaw-dropping accuracy.
Beyond just sheer power, Bryston's amplifiers (like the Bryston BP series and the Bryston 3B) are engineered with meticulous attention to detail, incorporating cutting-edge technologies and innovative features that elevate audio quality and performance to new heights. From warm, natural soundstages to precise imaging and crystal-clear clarity, Bryston amplifiers provide an unparalleled listening experience. Bryston's flagship amplifiers, like the mighty 28XO, showcase the company's dedication to crafting products that push the boundaries of audio fidelity. These behemoths are purpose-built to unleash the full potential of high-resolution audio sources, unveiling every intricate detail and nuance with uncompromising accuracy and transparency.
Bryston's top-of-the-line amps and speakers stand as titans of the audio world, delivering ground-shaking power and dynamics that transcend the capabilities of traditional amps and speakers. From studio-grade recordings to heart-pounding cinematic scores, these titans lay bare the true depth and intensity of source material, unveiling details and dynamics that lesser amplifiers would fail to reproduce. Whether concert-level bass and ponderous lows, or staggering transients and searing crescendos, Bryston redefines the limits of what is possible, delivering performance, power, and dynamics that push the boundaries of amplification and loudspeaker tech while defining new standards for what can be achieved. The perfect addition to your high-end DAC, preamp, bookshelf speakers (like the Mini A and Mini T), Bryston loudspeakers, headphone amplifiers, preamps, and more are perfect for any audiophile setup.
Bryston offers an incredible 20-year warranty on its analog audio products and loudspeakers (five years on digital products and cables). Based in Peterborough, Ontario, Canada, Bryston products are sold through over 150 dealers in North America and 60 countries worldwide. Discover why Bryston is one of the most venerated high-end audio brands in the world and learn more about the products.
FAQ
What makes the Bryston BCD-3 special compared to other CD players?
The BCD-3 is designed specifically for high-quality CD playback, without the compromises found in universal disc players that support multiple formats. It features dual balanced AKM 4490 DAC chips, a discrete class-A balanced analog output stage, and professional-grade optical disc transport. These components ensure zero jitter, superb linearity, and exceptional sound quality from your CD collection.
Does the Bryston BCD-3 play SACDs or DVDs?
No, the BCD-3 is a Redbook CD player, meaning it only plays standard CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RWs. It does not support SACD or DVD formats. This design choice was made to optimize CD playback quality, focusing on providing the best possible sound from standard CDs.
How does the BCD-3 handle jitter and distortion?
The BCD-3 uses an ultra-precise master clock to synchronize digital audio reading and conversion processes, minimizing jitter. The dual-balanced DACs and class-A discrete operational amplifiers help reduce distortion, ensuring a clean and detailed audio output.
Can the BCD-3 be integrated into a home automation system?
Yes, the BCD-3 can be connected to a home network for control via a web-based interface or integrated into a home automation system. It also supports RS232 and IR for additional control options.
Does the BCD-3 come with a remote control?
The BCD-3 does include a remote control as standard as of March 1, 202. It can also be controlled using the optional Bryston BR-2 remote or a universal remote control.
What are the output options on the BCD-3?
The BCD-3 provides both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA analog outputs, as well as digital outputs via AES/EBU and S/PDIF RCA. These options allow for flexible connectivity with a variety of audio systems.
How does the BCD-3 perform in terms of build quality?
The BCD-3 is built with a robust and solid construction typical of Bryston products. It features a thick aluminum front panel and a rugged metal CD tray, reflecting its high-end design and durability.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Physical Specifications | |
| Dimensions | Inches: 2.75" H × 11.11" D (17" or 19" width faceplate) |
| Centimeters: 7cm H × 28.2cm D (43.2cm or 48.3cm width faceplate) | |
| Weight | 10.3 lb | 4.7 kg |
| Technical Specifications | |
| DACs/ADCs | 6 DACs and 2 ADCs by AKM |
| DAC Resolution | 96kHz/24bit DAC |
| Crossover Settings | Factory programmed |
| Audio Sensing | Auto-power on |
| Network Connectivity | For control and firmware updates |
| Control | TCP/IP, IR, DC, RS-232 |
| Audio Specifications | |
| Audio Inputs | Balanced XLR input (2x XLR) |
| Audio Outputs | Balanced XLR output (6x XLR: 2x Low, 2x Mid, 2x High) |
| Gain | Three position gain switch |