The Burmester 089 is a true luxury product. However, it doesn’t rest on its beautiful appearance, but masterfully plays its role as a competently and sensually acting music broker. On a not overly large, but accurately subdivided virtual stage it gives the music every chance to unfold in a soundful, precise, free and true-to-life manner. The fact that it is able to impart the blissful power of the live experience without the slightest trace of clumsy pummeling is one of its remarkable capabilities. And maybe it’s even due to the belt drive that the 089’s performance feels so utterly nonchalant and free, so marvellously analogue and yet without mechanical faults. Yes, the Burmester 089 costs a pretty penny, but it will put this into another perspective not least with the precise preamp you get as a nice bonus. A true highlight player!   Stefan Gawlick