Burmester doesn’t whisper. At High End Munich 2025, the Berlin based brand laid out its next step with little fanfare and a lot of aluminum. Framed under the “Redefining Outstanding” banner, Burmester presented its upcoming Reference Line, a three component platform focused on precision engineering and long term relevance rather than spectacle.
Anchored by the 249 preamplifier, 259 power amplifier, and the all-new 257 turntable, this lineup is equal parts heritage statement and precision-driven bravado—the kind only a German high-end manufacturer can deliver with a straight face, a symmetrically milled chassis, and the quiet confidence of someone who alphabetizes their tool chest.
New Reference Line
249 Preamplifier
Because why settle for “high-end” when you can have Burmester high-end? The new 249 Preamplifier marries obsessive precision with unapologetic flexibility. Wrapped in a visually striking mirrored façade, it offers optional streaming and DAC capabilities for those who expect digital refinement without compromise.
The optional DAC module is anything but an afterthought; it’s built around a high-performance chip designed to deliver music with clarity, detail, and control that matches the rest of the system. Add-on phono and line modules let you tailor the 249 to your exacting needs, because Burmester knows better than to assume you’re done tweaking.
259 Power Amplifier
The 259 Power Amplifier is designed for high power and consistent control with demanding loudspeakers. It uses a fully balanced circuit and passive cooling, eliminating the need for fans while maintaining stable operation under load.
In stereo mode, the 259 delivers 500 watts per channel into 4 ohms. When configured as a monoblock, output increases to 1500 watts. The design prioritizes low noise operation, wide dynamic range, and stable power delivery, allowing the amplifier to handle difficult speaker loads without compression or instability.
The power control is intentionally hidden, and the regulated power supply allows the amplifier to reach optimal performance immediately after power on. The amplifier supports both stereo and mono operation, making it adaptable to different system configurations.
257 Turntable
The 257 Turntable is built around a clear priority: stable mechanical performance with minimal interference in the analog signal path. Optical Speed Control and the Innovative Motor Suspension system work together to maintain consistent rotational accuracy, while the audio signal remains entirely analog.
Speed selection is handled by two physical buttons for 33 and 45 rpm. No display, no menus. The design is modular, with an optional balanced output phono module that allows direct connection to a compatible amplifier.
The 257 is supplied with a matching tonearm and an external power supply. Its core mechanical element is an inverted magnetic main bearing designed to reduce friction and operating noise.
The bearing shaft is made from polished ceramic and paired with a sintered bronze liner to ensure smooth, stable rotation over time. The turntable uses a belt drive system powered by two high torque 12V motors to maintain speed consistency.
Rotational accuracy is monitored by an optical sensor system, while the 50 mm platter uses a layered construction of technical plastic and stainless steel to provide a stable, low resonance platform for record playback.
The Bottom Line
Ownership of a Burmester Reference system starts around $200,000 USD. That places it firmly outside the realm of practicality and well into deliberate decision making. This is not positioned as attainable high end, but as an unapologetic statement for listeners who place absolute priority on system performance, build quality, and long term commitment. It is expensive by design, precise by intent, and aimed at buyers who already know the cost before asking the question.
Pricing & Availability
The new Burmester Reference lineup is expected to hit select shops in the second half of 2025.
249 Preamplifier
- $55,000 USD: Base Model in Standard & Black
- $10,000 USD: Phono MC
- $10,000 USD: DAC
259 Power Amplifier
- $90,000 USD: Base Model in Standard & Black
257 Turntable
- $55,000 USD: Base Model in Standard & Black
- $10,000 USD: Phono Module
Related Reading:
- Burmester Launches “PURE SOUND – Master Recordings” on Lacquer: No Edits, No Filters, Just Pure Audiophile Snobbery in Real-Time
- Burmester’s 232 Integrated Amplifier Offers Modular Upgradability For A Rather Steep Price
- Mark Levinson 600 Series Unleashed At HIGH END Munich 2025: All-American, All-Attitude, And Proudly Overkill
- Thorens Unleashes TD 124 DD Exclusive, TD 404 DD & MC 1600 At High End Munich 2025 — Precision German Audio With A Side Of Sauerkraut
