Bel Canto’s new generation of e.One analog switching audio power amplifiers emerge…
These amplifiers incorporate performance enhancing technology resulting from our on-going research in analog switching amplifier technology.
High common mode rejection, wide dynamic range custom input stages are added. This input stages improved the drive to the amplifier, resulting in lower noise and distortion and wider dynamic range in real-world operation.
The input stage uses the latest advanced amplifiers and passive components including: Caddock resistors, Solid Electrolytic ultra-low ESR decoupling capacitors and low noise regulated power supplies. These devices ensure that the input section is utterly transparent, enhancing the performance of the core amplifier.
The REF1000 mkII and REF500 Mono amplifiers also include custom power supply rectification and filters that substantially increase the energy storage of the power supply. This stage results in lower noise in operation, reduced sensitivity to power line effects and better perceived power delivery and dynamics. Incorporating high speed, low noise rectifiers, high voltage film filter capacitors and high energy storage this filter allows the regulated power supply to perform at its best.
Both the REF500 and S500 use 3rd generation switching amplifiers for lower High Frequency distortion, increased clarity and better high frequency extension.
All Bel Canto e.One amplifiers are gain matched for easy mixing in system building, multi-channel and vertical bi-amplification applications.
Bel Canto offer upgrades for the original REF1000 for the cost difference of the mkII version.
RMAF Best of Show by Steve Guttenberg... Bel Canto and TAD
Steve Guttenberg gives the TAD Reference One speakers ($60,000/pr) best sound of show on CNET... powered by an all-Bel Canto system! "Their newly revised Reference One speaker ... produced the most vivid, clear, and transparent sound. Bass drums were tight, pitch-perfect; stereo imaging was, again, remarkably precise and three-dimensional. Vocalists virtually materialized between the two Reference Ones. ... Some of that amazing sound quality has to be attributed to the Bel Canto electronics that TAD was using. The compact e.One Series components use just a tiny fraction of the AC power consumed by their hotter running, bigger and heftier competition. Bel Canto does things differently."
Nelson Pass
Significant things do turn up from time to time, wire and equipment come my way for review......I found the REF1000 to be an excellent performer, and every review I read agreed with that conclusion. There was much praise and awarding of editor's choice.
The REF1000 MKII steps through a veil I didn't know was there; it creates an image of solidity, nuance and harmonic richness. Dynamic range is great, dynamic palette detailed. I've struggled without success for a descriptive phrase or metaphor to convey my overall impression. Phrases pop into mind and I'm not even sure just what they mean. “Image specificity” is one. “Dynamic nuance” is another, as is “dynamic speed.” The MKII takes an exponential leap ahead of its predecessor.
A word about price. In assessing value, I refer to my former amplifier, a Spectron Musician III (US$6000), which I exhaustively compared to the original Bel Canto REF1000. My loyalty to Spectron goes back years to the original Digital One, but suffice it to say I sold the Musician III and bought the new REF1000s. On the basis of this logic, the MKII's are something of a bargain at US$6000. (NZ$11,500) [review
link] [more]
Bill Wells
Bottom-line – in my opinion, the upgrade for the REF 1000s improves these amps in very important ways. Essentially what was before a very fine amplifier is now even better and importantly by a fairly significant margin. As such, anyone owning the original version of the REF 1000s has an opportunity for a major improvement in overall performance for a reasonable price. One the other hand, those looking for a superb musical amplifier, something with power, dynamics, control, finesse and musicality – I strongly suggest checking out the REF 1000 MK II. [review
link] [more]
Guido D. Corona - issue 43
Guido Corona at PFO has much to say about our REF1000 MKII monoblocks: "Haunting majesty ... tuneful and well pitched ... the midrange has a pleasing grace without euphonic glow ... palpable three-dimensionality ... sheer power and authority." His conclusion? "Give them a careful audition: you will be excited by their authority, seduced by their agility, and will fall in love with their musicality." [review
link] [more]
Kalman Rubinson
Stereophile's Kalman Rubinson weighs in on the REF1000 MKII monoblocks in the March '09 issue. “The Bel Canto Ref1000 Mk.II can be compared with the cream of the other amps I’ve had in my system: the Classé CA-3200, Mark Levinson No.433, and Ayre Acoustics V-6xe. Each of these distinguishes itself in different ways, and particularly with different speakers. Because of this, I think I must keep the Bel Canto Ref1000 Mk.IIs as a reference amplifier—an easy decision even when based solely on its sound, but also: in my living room, none of the others can be so easily hidden in plain sight.” [review
link] [more]
John Crossett
Sound "The first thing that grabbed my attention about the REF1000s’ sound was their good, tight bass reproduction…. The REF1000s went fully as low as my Magnepan speakers are capable (and seemed like they added a half octave or so)." "Aiding in their bass performance is the quietness of the REF1000s…. If you hear any incidental noise, look to your other components." "Good show, Bel Canto."
Features "The REF1000s use the latest generation of Bang & Olufsen's ICEpower analog switching module, the 1000ASP, to produce a reported 500 watts into 8 ohms and 1000 watts into 4. Going ICEpower has allowed John Stronczer and company to free themselves from the limitations of traditional transformer-based power supplies. By eliminating the transformer, Bel Canto claims to have lowered the noise floor and allowed the amplifier reproduce music in a more unfettered manner."
Use "The REF1000 is a fully balanced design, so it's nice that Bel Canto gives you your choice of using either single-ended/RCA or balanced/XLR inputs."
Value The REF1000s "offer a selection of strengths that made my listening time with them a real joy. Plus, packing all that into chassis the size of Grape Nuts boxes means that placement becomes a non-issue." [more]
John Potts
The REF1000's..."easily handle all the basic requirements of a high-end power amplifier. They are smooth and refined. They are transparent to the source in a way that makes them appropriate as listening devices as well as reviewers' tools. They also deliver lots of current and they exude the kind of bold muscularity that you'd expect from amplifiers equipped to deliver 1000 watts into 4 ohms. Additionally, they deliver the tonal saturation you just may have to experience to appreciate." [review
link] [more]
Features:
The nEW e.One REF150s Stereo Amplifier
A more powerful/refined 75 watts into 8 ohms, 150 into 4 ohm loads
We’re expanding our well-known amplifier line to include the REF150S. They feature 117dB dynamic range and power doubling into 4 ohm speakers.
The custom input stage improves drive to the amplifier for lower noise and less distortion. Fully-regulated low-heat, ultra-efficient switch-mode power supplies and class-A analog output control circuitry make possible Bel Canto’s eco-friendly compact designs.
The higher spec REF150S is about more than a few extra watts. Like all REF series amps they’re fitted with custom power supply rectification and filters that substantially increase the power supply’s energy storage. They’re manufactured with carefully selected high-speed, low-noise rectifiers, high-voltage film filter capacitors and high energy storage capacity. What this means for you is lower noise and reduced sensitivity to power line effects.
Features
• 117dB dynamic range
• Power Output at 1% Distortion: 125W 4 ohms, 65W 8 ohms per channel
• Output Noise: 35uVRMS A-weighted 10Hz-20KHz
• Fully-balanced XLR and single-ended RCA inputs
• RCA input impedance: 100Kohms
• XLR balanced input impedance: 200Kohms
• Green, eco-friendly, low-heat, low noise, low power consumption
Reviewers quote:
The best word to describe the overall sound is "liquid." Very smooth, with a beautiful midrange, extended, well controlled bass and smooth, airy highs with no trace of brittleness. The power and dynamic range are extremely impressive.
However, the one item that "sealed the deal" for me was the resolution during quiet passages and lower volume settings. This lifted a veil and revealed inner details in many pieces that I didn't know were even there.
tdavism3 - Audio Review.com
Summary:
I have used many different amps ranging from Mark Levinson's 432 to Rotel's 1077. While I will not say that this amp beats them all, it certainly is competitive with amps costing much more. This amp is very neutral and incredibly detailed. Also, it is a great match for b&w speakers (which lean towards the bright side of the equation). The 150 watts/channel seems very conservative. Factor in the cool form factor and this is a great little package at any price. The fact that it is priced at less than $1,500 only adds to the giddiness.
Rating: 5/5
mlsstl - Audio Review.conm
Summary:
I've been using the S300 for about six months and consider it an outstanding buy. I'd been a devoted tube fan for many years, never having heard a solid state amp in a price range I could afford that I liked better. However, the glowing reviews of the digital amps caught my eye and I had to try one for myself. The Bel Canto S300 was in my price range so I gave it a spin.
The long and short of it is this is an outstanding buy and it didn't take me long to become a convert and sell my tube amp (CJ MV60).
The best word to describe the overall sound is "liquid." Very smooth, with a beautiful midrange, extended, well controlled bass and smooth, airy highs with no trace of brittleness. The power and dynamic range are extremely impressive.
However, the one item that "sealed the deal" for me was the resolution during quiet passages and lower volume settings. This lifted a veil and revealed inner details in many pieces that I didn't know were even there.
In short, highly recommended to anyone looking for a powerful, musical amp in this price range.
Strengths:
Significant power in a small package (about 10 pounds). Outstanding sound quality in an attractive design. Very revealing.
Rating 5/5
Les Turoczi
On symphonic material, I sensed a good soundstage with instrument placement rendered naturally. Even when driven hard with big bombastic stuff, the S300 behaved in a well controlled, unflappable manner. Clean, nicely detailed and smooth music prevailed.
Let me note that the amplifier produced satisfying bass extension...
I can happily say that the S300 helped me grin through it all.
I am pleased to report that the Bel Canto e.One S300 stereo amplifier delivered clarity, musical effectiveness and a satisfaction coefficient that makes it a readily recommendable product. I consider this ICEPowered unit to be a success. [more]
Andrew Robinson HomeTheatre review
Conclusion
The Bel Canto e.One S300 is a solid amplifier in terms of performance and downright awesome in terms of everything else. For its low asking price, I wouldn't call it a no-brainer, for there are a number of amps boasting the same power output and levels of style for about the same money. However, none are as compact or as easy on the environment as the e.One S300. The S300's sound is unique and takes a bit of getting used to, but if you're one of those who grow to love it, it's hard to go back to anything else. If you're in the market for a solid-performing, no-nonsense stereo amplifier, I recommend giving the e.One S300 a listen before making your final decision.
A fundamentally pleasing, very non-artificial character which some might nearly call analogue in feel.
An exceptionally developed, open, airy and micro-detailed treble with perfect long-term friendliness.
A three-dimensional sound picture with immaculate staging.
A fleet-footed yet colorful rendition which is tonally a tad on the lit-up or light side.
Immaculate rhythmic fidelity including well articulated bass, the latter somewhat softer in matters of pressurization and extension.
Fetching cosmetics and superb fit’n’finish.
Gary Pearce
.....that’s the obvious difference between most CD players and the Bel Canto CD2; you place CDs on a turntable — I was in love already.
Each component has a real luxury feel to it, like a Swiss watch.
Listening to this system was a joy. The Bel Canto electronics expertly combined warmth and involvement with excellent detail and dynamics — a mix that seems easy on paper but which in practice manufacturers seldom achieve.
a long list of tracks played on and the Bel Cantos kept the Tone reviewer pinned to his couch for an extended session. This beautiful-sounding and styled audio equipment was spellbinding. Combining the warmth of tubes with solid-state slam and dynamics is no mean feat, but that’s just what Bel Canto has achieved. Strongly recommended for those who appreciate fantastic sound quality. [more]
Jörg Dames - Fairaudio
The attacks and decays of the highest notes dying on the air are most carefully drawn. Equally formidable are the cymbal’s flickering star dust and the multi-layer harmonics of the cello gaining in finesse and richness. In a recent interview with violin builder Falk Peters, he called "the harmonic envelope of the violin its most under appreciated aspect".
Naturally, it’s the harmonic content of instruments and voices which encode their individuated aural finger prints. Relevant in this context is how the CD-2, despite its satisfying long-term friendliness,
I found it interesting to come across a player which was equally pleasing as my formidable Fonel and sells for similar coin. No less interesting was the fact that despite considerable overlap—-foremost the exemplarily non-artificial presentation—there also were significant differences. The fleet-footed Bel Canto CD-2 was exceptionally airy and "molecularly particled" in the upper ranges without reducing this prowess to a core character. In matters of midrange and bass meanwhile, the well-balanced Fonel was the more developed and sonorous. Simply put, the very open American is definitely worth a very serious audition. [review
link] [more]
John Potis
The CD-2 is a very interesting piece and one of great utility. If you're just getting into building a system it can get you up and running in no time—just add power amplifier and speakers. Now you can enjoy your music as you get to know your speakers. When the first upgrade bug comes along you can step up and add a Dac3 and not only will you be stunned by just about all aspects of what you'll hear, you'll truly be able to appreciate what it is that you've been building up to. In other words, you won't have to fret that you got something different; you'll know that you got something better—because you did. This is what system building is all about. The CD-2 gives you a clear upgrade path that won't have you equivocating or splitting hairs trying to decide if you just made the right move. At some point if you decide that you'd like to add a second source to your system, then and only then may you find it advantageous to add a preamp and you haven't lost any of the performance you'd paid for with the CD-2/Dac3 combination. It's all still there.
If, on the other hand, you've got a fully developed and mature system, the CD-2/Dac3 combination is a system that I can highly recommend both in terms of absolute performance as well as on the basis that it represents a very sound value. Not only does it improve upon my digital separates, it does so at a savings of roughly 40%. In terms of use and ergonomics, this is just the icing on the cake. It doesn't take up much space and it's extremely easy to use. It's most stylish, too. That's what I think anyway. I don't care what your budget is, go and get an audition of the Bel Canto e.One Dac3 and CD-2 player/transport and let me know if you disagree. [more]
The Bel Canto’s has the ability to capture the “energy and life” in well-made recordings and to experience those qualities firsthand, try putting on the track “Tommy” from bassist Dean Peer’s stunning Ucross [XLO Recordings]. Peer puts on a dazzling display of bass guitar techniques, including conventional finger-style playing, slapping, lift-offs, hammer-ons, overhand tapping, and perhaps most amazing of all, very-high-frequency harmonics that give the bass an otherworldly, chime-like sound. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of hearing such a performance live, you know it can be characterized both by sheer dynamic punch and—paradoxically—by great delicacy (Peer’s harmonic techniques give the bass an almost gamelan-like quality where harmonics and fundamentals merge in exquisitely complex ways).
Our Comments:
One of the best ways to include your computor with your hi-fi system so you can enjoy downloaded music to a high degree.
Chris Martens quote:
"I thought Bel Canto’s performance was thoroughly admirable—good enough that, if my reference amp ever failed, I could see using the Bel Canto as a long-term substitute. One thing is certain: The S300iU is thoroughly competitive with—and in some respects superior to—other fine integrated amps I’ve heard in this price class. This is really significant when you consider that the Bel Canto also has a “secret weapon” most other integrated amps do not provide: a built-in, high-quality USB DAC".
NZ$3,995.00/ea
incl GST
Original RRP $3,995.00
Add to enquiry/ shopping
h: 75 mm w: 216 mm d: 318 mm
Reviews
Chris Martens
First, the Bel Canto S300iU is a compact lion-hearted integrated amplifier that can stand tall beside just about anything I’ve heard in its price class.
The Bel Canto’s built-in USB DAC is also very good, ...gives the S300iU an extra dimension, making it a very serious, plug-and-play front end for use with computer- or server-based audio systems. [review
link] [more]
Chris Martens - AV Guide
BOTTOM LINE:
Bel Canto’s S300iUSB is, first and foremost, an excellent and affordable integrated amplifier that can stand tall in comparison to just about anything I’ve heard in its price class, offering—in equal measures--both sonic refinement and serious muscle (meaning it can drive the overwhelming majority of speakers one might wish to use). The Bel Canto’s built-in USB DAC is very good (though perhaps not as good as its terrific amplifier section in an absolute sense). But the point is that the USB DAC gives the S300iUSB an extra dimension, making it a very serious yet also plug-n-play front end for use with computer or server-based audio systems. [review
link] [more]
Wes Phillips - Stereophile
The S300iu is built better than mainstream components, and it sounds better, too. A lot better.
If the S300iu can get me that worked up, imagine what it could do for someone new to the High End. In the e.One S300iu, Bel Canto may have made the most significant contribution to high-end audio since 1962, when J. Gordon Holt decided to start his own magazine. [more]
Features:
The USB Link 24/96, the must-have component for computer hard disc music systems.
The USB Link 24/96 converts a computer-derived USB input of up to 24 bits and 96kHz to SPDIF and outputs the signal on a 75 ohm BNC. The USB Link 24/96 includes a Stereovox XV2 BNC/BNC cable with RCA adaptor to feed your audiophile DAC of choice Significantly improves the sound of your 16-bit 44.1 kHz music files as well!
• Converts USB computer-sourced files to SPDIF output
• Compatible with native drivers on Mac and Windows
• Accepts high-resolution audio files with data rates up to 24 bits and 96KHz
• Quality Stereovox XV2 BNC/BNC with RCA adaptor connects to any quality DAC
• USB Link 24/96 disables system volume control
• Low-jitter clock recovery features reference crystal oscillator
• Self-powered via USB input benefiting from LC filters and low-noise local regulation
• Galvanic isolation between computer and audio system prevents high-frequency noise from polluting signal
The Bel Canto is a great way to connect that USB source to a S/DIF DAC… it works and it works quite well. The Bel Canto USB Link is a must have!”
“I found that the Link worked equally well with any DAC I tossed its way, including the Cary 306 Professional. In every case the music took on an improved (obviously to varying degrees depending on the quality of the DAC, though in every case it was one of "a positive difference") in warmth and naturalness with a greater delineation of notes and instruments; no hint of fatigue or analytical nasties to ruin the music. Nice indeed. …
The Havana DAC now presented the music with a superior sense of resolution and ease… there was more there to hear with-in the music. With the Link in doing its thing the absence of said grain and such was clearly audible. Nice… smoother and yet, more resolved.” [more]
Our Comments:
The Bel Canto LNS1 power supply offers low noise, high transient current and a high degree of isolation from the AC Line supply, and is designed to power 1x Bel Canto VB source product.
The LNS1 is designed to provide enhanced, ultra low noise power for the CD2 and VB equipped products such as the Dac3.5VB, DAC3VB, PRE3VB, PHONO3VB.
The LNS1 is for 1x VB component only, however the alternative VBS1 will supply up to 3x VB source componets.
Features:
Low Noise Switch Mode Power Supply (SMPS) provides over 90% energy efficiency, specific control over operating parameters of the supply, and high levels of isolation with significantly lower audio band noise than traditional 50/60 Hertz transformer based linear supplies
Extensive input filtration, low noise rectification and high energy storage prior to the SMPS
Massive bank of LC filtration using compound inductors, parallel electrolytic capacitors and final stage polypropylene capacitors to ensure hundreds of amperes of peak current capability and low noise across a wide frequency spectrum
Compact SMPS isolation transformer for superior isolation from the power line.
The Virtual Battery Supply powers up to three Bel Canto music products equipped with the 12 volt VB internal power supply board for an incredibly high-value upgrade path.
These include the CD2 (replacing the compact external 12VDC supply with the new LNS1), the DAC3, PRE3 or PHONO3, or any future Bel Canto product with VB 12VDC input compatibility.
The Sound
Like falling off a log! The extremely high isolation and regulation, the 100 Joules of energy storage and high current capacity of the VBS1 delivers breathtaking results! You'll find greatly enhanced transparency, palpability, soundstage integrity, bass control, midrange texture, treble extension and sweetness. You loved your DAC3 before? Prepare yourselves!
Scull Communications
The Virtual Battery Supply powers up to three Bel Canto music products equipped with the 12 volt VB internal power supply board for an incredibly high-value upgrade path.
These include the CD2 (replacing the compact external 12VDC supply with the new LNS1), the DAC family, PRE3 or PHONO3, or any future Bel Canto product with VB 12VDC input compatibility.
The Sound
Like falling off a log! The extremely high isolation and regulation, the 100 Joules of energy storage and high current capacity of the VBS1 delivers breathtaking results! You'll find greatly enhanced transparency, palpability, soundstage integrity, bass control, midrange texture, treble extension and sweetness. You loved your DAC3 before? Prepare yourselves! [review
link] [more]
Bel Canto VBS1 white paer
Bel Canto VBS1 white paper:
Background
The VBS1 began as a thought experiment, what if we could re-create the advantages of a battery power supply without any of the disadvantages?
1) Define the key elements that make a battery a superior power source
2) Determine what technologies to use to deliver these key elements
3) Improve upon battery performance
4) Package it to best effect and in the most versatile manner
5) Design any auxiliary supplies to power specific circuitry
6) Confirm the results through comprehensive testing
7) Listen to the results
8) Iterate as needed [review
link] [more]
Features:
Bel Canto Universal Premium Remote - the personal Digital assistant of Home Audio & Theatre equipment
Pre-programmed with learning capability
10-in-1 remote (replace TV, VCR, DBS, CTV, DVD/LD, CD, AMP and AV1, AV2, AV3)
EL backlit Touch screen panel with intelligent light snsor
Maximum up to 70 keys per device mode
Direct access function hard keys
Setup by code entering, brand name search and code search through library
10 Programmable macros
Device name and function keys editing, moving and deleting
Custom page for personal setup
Remote-to-remote copy function
Security password lock
Real time clock
Features:
The NEW FM1 Tuner 24-bit/48kHz Digital Outputs • Patented Digital IF Analog Tuner Front End
A tuner’s delight! The FM1 features patented analog FM receiver architecture, delivering superior RF performance and rejecting interference with digital IF processing. The FM1 includes advanced seek algorithms, adjustable soft mute, stereo blend, auto-calibrated digital tuning, and FM stereo processing. Digital processing allows precise pilot rejection, selectivity, and unmatched audio quality. The advanced digital IF section operates at 24-bits and 48Ks/s data rate. Run the digital output into your favorite Bel Canto DAC or choose the FM1’s analog outputs derived from our High Dynamic Range Bel Canto DAC architecture.
The FM1 also incorporates a digital processor for the European Radio Data System (RDS) and the North American Radio Broadcast Data System (RBDS) for station identification and performance information displayed on the 8-digit alphanumeric display. The FM1 delivers unprecedented functionality and performance in a compact, easy to use package. It’s a perfect system companion for a Bel Canto DAC Control Center or preamp-based system.
Features
• Internal DAC with 122dB dynamic range
• 24-bit/48kHz digital output
• High dynamic range 24/192 DAC analog section
• RDS/RBDS Function
• 8-digit alphanumeric green LED display
• 10 station preselects and Remote control
• Green, eco-friendly, low-heat, low noise, low power consumption
Features:
The NEW 24/96 Light Link 24-bit/96kHz Digital USB-to-ST High Speed Glass-Fiber
If you’ve gathered much of your music on hard disk you’ve without doubt thought of how to keep your computer handy while running a long USB connection to your DAC. Of course, USB is only good for about 15 feet and you may need more. Enter the 24/96 Light Link; run a USB cable to its input and it converts the signal to ST High Speed Glass-Fiber which does long runs with ease and further decouples the computer from your audio system. At the other end plug the Light Link into an ST Glass-Fiber input and the job is done! Now you don’t have to get up for anything!
Nelson Pass 
Guido D. Corona - issue 43 
Kalman Rubinson 
John Crossett 
John Potts 
Gary Pearce 
Chris Martens 
Features: 
Features: 