Burmester

Burmester Audiosysteme GmbH, commonly known as Burmester, is a prestigious German manufacturer of high-end audio components, including turntables. The company was founded in 1977 in Berlin-Schöneberg by Dieter Burmester (1946–2015), an Austrian-born engineer and musician passionate about achieving the purest and most natural music reproduction possible.

The origins of Burmester trace back to Dieter Burmester’s dissatisfaction with existing audio equipment. When his preamplifier failed in the late 1970s, he designed and built his own-the Burmester 777-in July 1977, using parts from medical devices he had experience with. This successful first product laid the foundation for the company, which quickly gained a reputation for combining superior sound quality, technological innovation, and timeless design. The company’s signature chrome finish and cursive logo were established early and remain iconic.

Burmester pioneered several industry firsts, including the world’s first modular preamplifier (Model 808 in 1980), the first belt-driven CD player (1991), and advanced power conditioning technology to reduce noise in power supplies. The company expanded its portfolio over the years to include amplifiers, loudspeakers, and eventually turntables, maintaining a focus on precision engineering and sonic purity.

In 2018, Burmester introduced its flagship turntable, the Burmester 175, which embodies the company’s dedication to craftsmanship and sound excellence. The 175 is a fully integrated system including a phono stage, tonearm, cartridge, and power supply, featuring a heavy, anti-resonant platter machined from solid aluminum and brass. It has been acclaimed as one of the finest turntables globally, reflecting Burmester’s status as a luxury audio brand.

Beyond consumer audio, Burmester has also collaborated with luxury automotive brands, developing exclusive sound systems for Bugatti, Porsche, and Mercedes-Benz, further cementing its reputation for high-end audio innovation.

In summary, Burmester’s origins lie in the vision of a musician-engineer determined to create audio equipment that delivers authentic, natural sound. Founded in 1977, the company has grown into a symbol of German precision and luxury in the high-end audio world, with its turntables representing the pinnacle of its analog craftsmanship.