*There’s an Audiophiliac/Steve Guttenberg imposter scamming my viewers, There’s no FREE gifts. DON’T respond! I don't do giveaways or ask for money (except for my Patreon)*
Hi Steve! How does this compare to the Sphinx 3? I have the Sphinx 3 and after swapping out tubes with NOS Sylvanias, I really like it. BTW, I like that you review equipment the average person can afford. Stereophile review equipment is out of hand!
@@pedlpower The Sphinx 3 is reviewed online (audio science review) as having a sound "like a kit amplifier, high in noise floor and distortion with a 'Class D' amplifier" ... but the solution for 'Class D' is to use loudspeakers toned for professional equipment, Tannoy Dual concentric, the Eaton and use an older affordable example,we get them cheap until we put them on a thread like this and then the prices go through the roof, so we'd get any ten/ twelve inch Tannoy dual concentric, no names given to keep prices low. 15 inch Tannoy are for very large rooms. The Zu Audio DW6 is almost certainly copied from a public address loudspeaker and uh ... has 97dB SPL, although it is 12-ohm and therefore might suit a QUAD 405-2 clone as it worked with the 11 ohm LS3/5A but use a disco or audio speaker and it will be toned to enhance 'Class D'.
@@keplermission I have seen Amir's review of the Sphinx 3 and it does measure poorly for him but nowhere in the review does he say that it has a sound "like a kit amplifier, high in noise floor and distortion with a 'Class D' amplifier" as your quotations imply. Amir says that he didn't listen to the Sphinx. It sounds very good to me and many others and in the end that's what counts. BTW, Amir is in the minority. His is the only review that criticizes the Sphinx and he didn't even listen to it.
@@pedlpower H-713 said of the Sphinx 3, June 28th 2021: "someone who hasn't already built more tube amps / pre-amps than they know what to do with might find it perfectly enjoyable and fun to play with" ... and uh anybody could read that review and see what Amir says and I've been positive about a solution but you know, I don't have a dog in the fight and you obviously do. You don't even have the decency to share what speakers it sounds good with! Why not help buyers out? What speakers do you think the Sphinx 3 sounds good with?
@@keplermission I'm playing the Sphinx 3 through a pair B&W CM8. But I can see where this is all going. Please watch Steve's YT Video titled "COMMENTS, BLIND TESTS, MEASUREMENTS, what do you really think?" Enjoy the music and have a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!
I own the Bel Canto 500s, one level down from their 1000 Watt monoblocks. Both have been reviewed fairly extensively at 6 Moons and made fans there. My preamp is the Audible Illusions Modulus 3B with the phono section. The combo, played through Gallo Ref 3.1s is extremely involving, huge, articulated soundstage, grippy fast bass down to about 40hz, and a slightly warm, transparent top end with no glare. Voices sound palpably present, piano and plucked strings just sound tonally correct. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Bel Canto power amps of that vintage to First Watt and Pass Labs fans, which I am. Put some tubes in the signal chain and get you some open baffle or similar speakers and get ready to enjoy across all genres, but especially midrange heavy vocal stuff, jazz. The big 500 Watt Bel Cantos own my Gallos with great authority. The latter is not the last word in slam/dynamics as with, say, top end horns, Living Voice, etc. But the music is real, palpable, engaging and the Gallo/BC/AI combo is an imaging monster. The speakers disappear completely at times. The Bel Canto 500S is a very serious, audiophile grade power amp that runs cool, but with authority, grace and is a fraction of the cost of the ultra-fi Agostino ilk for people with real world budgets. Also, give the Wyred4Sound mINT a listen. Another Class D integrated that I think will pleasantly surprise.
Dennis, that system is amazing. From my POV you've done everything right. From great stands to speakers placed well into the room, and twin subs and just great gear driving everything. Did the diffusers on the front wall do much for the sound field being that far away with smaller speakers? Just fantastic in everything. As far as the main show, meh on the ClassD at that price. All the practicality of class d is lost when you pay that much IMHO. As always, thanks for the great show Steve.
Thanks OldTooly, I'm glad to read your favorable comments. Regarding the diffusers, the effect is quite marginal since I placed the speakers +/- 55 inches from the rear wall. Initially, the speakers were 24 inches closer to the wall and the difference was more audible, mainly by adding some focus to the voices. With this configuration, the panels seemed to act on the frequencies of the voices and early harmonics. That said, it was subtle and luckily the natural acoustics of my untreated room are good and the reverberation time is very short. Also, the first lateral reflections are more than 8 feet away from the speakers and my listening sessions are done at moderate levels, around 65-75 dB. Otherwise, the diffusers mostly help to furnish this big gray wall and add some visual relief. I would like to thank Steve for choosing and presenting my system. Denis.
Thorough review! A $3100 amp with a plastic remote. Unacceptable. Thanks… as always…. for the music! Would love to hear those Pure Audio Project speakers!
Happy New year Steve, Another interesting vid,. That new camera makes you look 18,, worth every penny.. Thanks Steve... Regards Antony, Warrington England...
Then you have to try the Aiyima A07! Don't let the price be a factor. It definitely sounds much much better than my older Red Wine Audio amp that was all the rage when the D's started happening, Blown away actually for speakers that aren't too demanding. $80???....fawget about it!
Nice review! I think you would Love the Marantz Reference PM-KI Hypex Class D amp. Its bigger brother the PM-10 (which I also owned) has less soul but the PM-KI is beautiful, much like how you described the Bel Canto. Exceptional Class D amps.
A lot of companies like Jeff Roland and bel canto use off the shelf amplifiers like B&O ice, pascal, and Hypex ncore. They are good amplifiers but they definitely overcharge considering how much the amplifiers themselves cost. TBH it would make sense to buy the amp board yourself for like 200 dollars and then get a high end DSP and you would get a similar result.
Really nice to see this review, Steve! I got the previous version of this piece -- the C7R -- in 2013, and only traded it in last year. It was versatile and I managed to use it in the main system, then as a desktop system ... and at other times was a great AV amp. And in 2018, I got the Bel Canto Black Ex Integrated. They make great stuff!
Class-D is my first choice. I live in a dusty desert and the class-d amps typically don’t need ventilation therefor they don’t accumulate dust internally over the years.
Steve…I believe back in your CNET days you reviewed a Bel Canto power amp and loved it! I hope you review more in ‘23? The Bel Canto + KEF LS 50’s sounds like a wonderfully simple, small and elegant system. I LOVE, LOVE LOVE the size of this integrated. The price is reasonable when you consider its an amp, preamp and dac in 2022 prices. I also like the coolness (as in temp) of Class D. The Bel Canto only offers a 2 year warranty. Is this average for amps today? I have no idea. I would hope it could last 25+ years, problem free? Anyone know how Bel Canto is with out of warranty service and long term parts availability?
I think Steve should review other class D amplifiers, like the NAD C298 or M23 which have the Purifi Eigentakt technology. Not clear which chip this amp has.. Great review and glad that it works with various speakers!
Thanks for that review. Been considering that amp because of its size. I really hope one day you may review PS Audio M 1200 mono blocks !! Class D hybrid. I’m curious about your thoughts on those. Thanks again!
Thanks for the review. There aren't many reviews on Bel Canto. I wish the company brings their products to shows more often and talks about them. I love the form factor and would be interested in the products, but I don't feel confident buying them.
I was thinking the visuals looked better - and top notch - new camera doing its work! Using the Schiit Loki, that you sold me on, the sound is also better...
I picked up the C6i predecessor the c5i and I haven't looked up the generational difference between the two but I've been quite satisfied with it in the bedroom system I'm using it in. The only thing I kind of feel crappy about is they've raised the price on that thing quite a bit, on my c5i I think I paid 2000 bucks for it. so the new models half as much more again,which in my opinion at that point if I was looking to purchase something for three grand it wouldn't be this. Now don't get me wrong it's not a bad amp or at least my c5i and much as Steve talks about here I really feel it's been one of the first class d amplifiers that I've listened to where I'm thinking man this sounds good, and it's not just sounds good, more that it makes you feel the emotion of the music which to me is paramount when I'm listening. but yeah for three grand I would not be buying this. The only thing going for it that I can see honestly is it's small form factor although again for that amount of money there are small form factor amplifiers that I would prefer.
@@ASherrick02 Actually, the power is almost identical, but the C6i is a much superior amp. I've been a Bel Canto dealer for over 20 years and while the C5i was very nice, the C6i is well worth the price difference.
C5i uses ICEPower 125asx2 module, which is 2x60W/4ohm and 2x70W/8ohm WITHOUT THERMAL SHUTDOWN, that means continuous. Which gives you roughly 50W of clean power. That is not too little, people tend to underestimate how loud even 5W is. The C6i has a Hypex NC122NP Ncore amp inside, 2x125W/4ohm, stable down to 1 ohm. Hypex is regarded generally much better SQ than ICEpower according to THD numbers. I don't think the differences are that big, if any. Many have the overall system gain set wrong, which messes the THD numbers up.
For those that use pricey, large gauge, cables. Did you notice the leads going to the speaker posts? They are 18 gauge at best and they terminate into a very small plug on the circuit board. Seems like this would make large gauage cables moot.
Wow -> L👀ks like the Bel Canto C6i class D integrated competes well with the True-Blue Box CDA, but has both a line out and a headphone out to boot. Sure would have saved me from making speaker to subwoofer and speaker to transformer coupled headphone interfaces. Nice review :)
Yay!! I’ve had a Bel Canto years ago. Now I have a Devialet Expert 250 Pro. I love what they do for my Hyperion 968. Wish Frank would leave his shirt on, yikes.
It’s using an HYPEX NCore amplifier module NC122MP. That’s alright. When it comes to class-D, some module expert companies do it better and some OEMs can then integrate their modules.
Can someone help me on this. If a new vinyl record after 1983 is in digital form, how does it make it analog? Not all records are analog, if newer, are they? I've heard many times, people say they play vinyl because it is analog. Are all vinyl considered analog? Thanks.
You should try and review the Wyred4Sound mINT integrated. It is small, has a great DAC, headphone output, plenty of power and sounds great. And it only costs $1500.
Steve, I was wondering if the rogue Sphinx v3 stack up against the bel canto c6i? Seems your description of the beL canto is similar to the Rogue Sphinx v3.
I'm always reading that class D amps are used with Magnapans, and yet I've heard Steve say- many times, that class D sucks the life out of music? Actually, other reviewers too. I believe both things could be true- along with not all class D amps are created equal. But I'm curious what it is about class D amps that work particularly well with Magnapans. Damping factor? Just more usable power?
A lot of class D amps are like tofu. Tofu is relatively tasteless on its own and needs added flavouring to taste good. I thinks this applies to a lot of class D amps. Exceptions are for example the PS Audio M1200 mono blocks. Its a hybrid class d solid mosfet output with a class A triode tube stage. This doesn’t sound like class D, except for a little less refinement in upper frequencies compared to a really good class A amp.
When you replace your amp with it let me know. I no longer believe any reviews unless I see what they have come out and the new so great item go in and stay in. If its not a keeper for you its not worth my time either.
After trying two class AB integrated’s (Rotel A-11 tribute and Arcam SA-10 ) i returned both ! no bass , no power , empty sound and that’s boring to me , So i keep my Denon pma-600 ne (class D)that i like so much and for $495 can’t beat it !
sorry to burst your bubble, but that denon is not class d. at the end of the day though I think the big thing that people often do is as an every man audiophile as most people are, they tend to fall into the biases that exists among product reviewers that exist within the Hi-Fi community. and they don't take the time to really investigate these products with their own ears. I knew a guy who swore up and down that class d sucked but yet he had never heard one of any kind. And I think to myself how can you come by that judgment with no firsthand experience. I guess it's human nature huh, have you experience one type of thing that's bad or not to your liking then most people automatically make the assumption that all things of that type are bad.
terrific review! The amp sounds very appealing. Might be nice to hear it compared to the Vincent SV-237 Mark II. Similarly priced but a hybrid tube/solid state amp so should be markedly different. Do you think you'll get a chance to review it?
No Steve, uh ... Nelson Pass would say completely ignore the 12-ohm character of Larry's uh ... Zu Audio DW6 and go for what people reckon sounds best with it. So the Stereo Maraschino amp is uh you know, the easy to pay option and uh, the best sound is from the Russian G9 Audio Nero 120 pre/power set and that's that. No more Larry, just a satisfied customer busy enjoying music at home. No more demands for reviews of all kinds of (low priced) bits and bobs.
hi Steve, could you please consider reviewing the Keces S300? That appears to be a powerhouse compact 130W amp, direct coupled from JFET input to MOSFET output, priced at $3,200.
That amp looks really good! Nice value too. I've started using a lateral MOSFET output amplifier recently.... Very linear and natural sound with fast and creamy bass.
@@peterlarkin762Is it a DIY or branded amp? To me the Keces S300 looks like it might fill the gap pf premum build but affordable Far Eastern amps, with some Far Eastern brands hiking their prices beyond belied e.g. Accuphase, Luxman and Marantz moving to Class D.
Belcanto sounds like you might find their products in the back of a free magazine posted through your door, with stretchy trousers for old people. And pegs for your washing line.
I don't know...maybe I will check out some Class D amps at an audio show or something. The ones I heard in the shops were not great, even though others were going OOOO-and-AAAA, I was not impressed. No soul, no magic. But that was a couple of years ago.
All these Hypex and Purifi based amps sound about the same. Really, the only way manufacturers can differentiate themselves is by coloring the sound with input circuitry, buffers etc.
Hypex is now releasing NcoreX modules which will be even higher performing than these Ncore modules. But probably won’t be in these consumer products for a few months still.
I had Bel Canto REF500M monoblocks for a number of years... ignorance is bliss. in retrospect, while they didnt suck, I would never own them again... except for maybe Home Theater
I was thinking of going NAD 3050. Way more features for less than this guy. But, I don't know what sound I'm in for. Never tried class D. What do you think?
I have the c-388 NAD integrated add blueOs module total cost 2000 US has Dac as well very versataile 150W more than enough I for most speakers .Im not looking for the AbsoluteSound after 55 years had many systems etc. Came finally to the conclusion to enjoy the music equipment became secondary.
This my issue with class D. I'm sure bel canto put lots of R&D into this, but high end class D amps just aren't good value for money. If Bel canto made this a class ab amp, it would cost them WAY more to build. They are making more profit from class D, without giving us more features, functions, etc.
I'd be interested to know how this compares to the Rogue Sphinx versions since the power ratings are similar, and both are Class D. I realize the Bel Canto costs twice as much, but still would be a valid comparison.
Steve liked the Sphinx, but maybe he didn't love it? I have the Sphinx 3 and it's a darn good amp. One of the tubes went microphonic and I'm running NOS Sylvanias now. Sounds really nice.
they are both hypex ncore based and possibly use the same amp modules so an excellent comparison. no DAC surely an advantage for sphinx- putting 3k down 3k on an amp guessing you prefer a seperate? - sphinx also has tube input stage renown for giving class D some body. on paper, my money's on the sphinx...
@@pedlpower I too enjoy my Sphinx V3 a great deal. I put it into play in June 2020. To date, there's been no tube 'failure'. I'd be curious to hear more description regarding those Sylvania tubes. In my correspondence with Rogue Audio (they're located pretty close to me), I received the following recommendation for replacement tubes, when needed: "We have RCA cleartops 12AU7’s that are $100 per pair and are tested for low noise; they sound great"
@@zizendorf My Sphinx sounded great when I first got it. Within a week there was something "off". It sounded no better than the Onkyo amp it replaced. No imaging, terrible soundstage if any at all, meh. I called the dealer and said I think I wanted to return it. He recommended I play it more to break it in. No good. Seven months later a tube went microphonic and I replaced with the NOS Sylvania 12AU7A. It now sounds great! Just like it did on day one. That tube was junk from the start!
)-: they have that sales-model where they link to distributors -- these (in some countries at any rate e.g Switzerland) are wholesalers -- you have to contact them for any info about actual dealers. I've come across this often with hifi equipment -- mostly high end. I guess they don't need too many customers so they make it hard to get...
Here in u.k. with energy prices very nearly trippled, I'm keeping my mind very open now, about "Trustedly Well Reviewed" class D amplifiers. I currently run a class A amp & it's stated consumption of 600 Watts is irregaurdless of if it's idling silent with no signal playing or if it's playing mighty loud, (technically, pure class A runs most efficiently at 2/3'rds of it's capable vollume, (source: a 35'yr old issue of my "Wireless World" electronics magazine collection) such is Class A & nearly as such are very warm running hi-biased class A/B. (Efficient cool-running pure class B amps sound boring & I don't think anyone at all makes them anymore since s/state early 1960's days) I used to turn my system on 30 or 40'ish minutes before I thought I may want to listen to music soon & half those times ...I'd be distracted by some other activity & the amp & etc would stay on for hours ...just in case I'll want to listen later & that practice had stopped as soon as energy prices virtually trippled in u.k. Class D amps now becomes financially very appealing, while non-amp gear uses a fraction of class A or hi-biased class A/B amps. I'm hence glad class D is clearly improving.
@@TriAmpHiFi ...it even goes beyond money now the W.E.F. have convinced western 'developed' countries to sign-up for introduced " 'Anti Global Warming' Government Purposed Power-Cuts" to roll out over a changing rota of each nation's designated zones for timed periods" ..time periods before a freezer defrosts? i hope (if we've food to freeze). Global elitist's plans had nothing to do with my hi-fi hobby but i've succumbed from what I heard stated & that directly caused me to begin thinking of a 1 or 2 car'battery fed, power-cut handy, 12v music system. Running a spare d.c. belt-drive motored deck.. (via a £1:50p dc voltage regulator) ..fed into my (usefully already 12v d.c. wart-fed) Dynavector P75/3 phono stage while plugged into my... (removed when & if necessary) 12v car'stereo c.d. tuner amp via it's line input jack for my phono stage (or buy a similar s/h car stereo unit) From previous experience, an indoor car stereo & car battery does lasts a surprising long time on 'comfortable' volumes, tho i could re-charge 1 or each of 2 batteries by swapping them for my car battery on rota. That's my plan ...if fuel is available by then & if not, it's me & my accoustic guitars & my wife can learn the bongo's(?) P.S. I fully understand this reply may be removed as I've drifted into political territory of "revealed facts aligning with a Huxley/ Orwellian totalitarian discomforts" that effect hi-fi but purely from my love of reproduced music.
Valid question. I don't think Steve will ever review anything as cheap as the Aiyima. Audiophiles rarely admit that the sound difference between 100 bucks and 3100 bucks is probably imperceptible to most.
@@KBoneZonewell I've got a good analogy for you, it's like comparing a Kia Rio to a Mercedes E-Class. I mean they both get you from a to b but one of them does it so much more nicely, which better fitments and feel and extravagantly more well appointed.
Steve - Is it reasonable to extrapolate the performance of the Bel Canto with the Magnepan LRS+ to a pair of larger Magnepans, specifically, the 3.7i? Or should I look for more power? Class D is appealing due to size, cool running.
If you care to hear a review of the visual quality since you mentioned the new camera, the lighting on the right side of your face is a little bright. Maybe a soft shade over the window if that's the source of the light?
Hi Steve, I just bought a Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum III in advance of getting some LaScalas. I was hoping tubes might soften the speakers a little. Have you reviewed this integrated amp?
This amp i probably realy good, but the inside photo show's some of the crazy stuff in this audiphile hobby... People will probably use expensive and nice speakercables.. the WBT bindingposts are great and good.. but on the inside there is cheap and simple cableshoes connected to the WBT's.. so.. yeah.. that must be a realy weakspot in the chain if this cable madness is true? ;) Can't wait for the comments :)
Have to say it's about time you reviewed one of bel cantos products. The Minnesota company has been making great stuff into the early 2000s. Maybe earlier. And they have been making class d amps sound great (and not lifeless! Or sterile) for many years. Even before this big wave of class d this and that. They make greats dacs and streamers as well!
Maybe it’s time to listen more to what class D has to offer Steve. I resend your comment of the M33 Purifi Amp sounding dull. It is the best sound ever produced in my living room. Far from dull.
well I think it really comes down to preferences, maybe you don't find it dull but maybe he did and at the end of the day maybe you're both right. I currently have a c298 which has a very similar output stage to the m33 and I love it but I could definitely see where people wouldn't.
Steve, you lost me with this most recent review. Two years ago, your review partially "sold" me on a Rogue Audio Sphinx V3. It too is a class D amp. So you talk about not liking them in this review although, you liked the Sphinx 2 years ago? Here's you: ua-cam.com/video/b7B8wn9-x1w/v-deo.html By the way, I love my Sphinx paired with Tannoy speakers!
This unit uses the Hypex NC122MP OEM module. There are a few on eBay with a 'Buy it Now' price of $282. The seller needs to make a profit and pay eBay + possibly PayPal fees so the OEM price from Hypex is likely to be much less. I'm guessing $125 - $175 for a reasonable quantity.
The performance of any amplifier built around Hypex Class D modules is going to be 90+ percent identical to all the dozens of other amplifiers built around the same modules. Regardless of what sort of bells and whistles you combine them with, it's those modules that are going define and limit what gets to the speakers.
@@Phloored -- All you can do is add those bells and whistles. Ultimately, the GIGO -- Good In, Good Out or Garbage In, Garbage Out -- principle applies. A good Class D module -- and Hypex modules, although no longer the very best, are danged good products -- is going to accurately reproduce whatever signal it gets from the rest of the circuit. I suspect some actual SOTA measurements -- which I know are outside The Audiophiliac's wheelhouse as a reviewer -- might discover what Bel Canto did to the front end of this amplifier to earn Steve's attention and enthusiasm when on the output side it's identical to dozens of other products built around the same modules.
Yep same here. Sure they are great for subwoofer but for the mids and high, never class d. Havent heard a class d amp that sounds better than a class a/b and a at the same price point.
@@munja2111 subjective as with all audio. Some like tube and some like solid state. But still agree, class d has no place in my audio (except for subwoofers).
Pretty soon all music will only be appreciated by people with means. Between the schools cutting down on programs and the music industry catering the uber rich with significant disposable income .... maybe only a handful can enjoy a descent music system.
I respect your opinions but I’m of the “trust but verify” mindset. I’ve heard class D Amps and even previous versions of this one in demos and I gotta say, I was NOT impressed. I have to reasonably conclude component matching is crucial. And a system has to be built around the amp. Just not sold yet.
If your spending his much money you should wait until you can buy the world's very best at $7999 and be done for life! , the Whammerdyne Audio DGA-1 Ultra Tube Integrated amp...the best amps on planet earth period😇
The view inside that box and the price tag don't add up. Signals passed through ribbon cables? No toroidal transformer? How do we get to the $3k+ price? No thanks.
I’ve got 4 others by SRV. They’re all like that, plus or minus a little. Great music, unfortunate over compression. I still listen anyway - he is just too good.
*There’s an Audiophiliac/Steve Guttenberg imposter scamming my viewers, There’s no FREE gifts. DON’T respond! I don't do giveaways or ask for money (except for my Patreon)*
Hi Steve! How does this compare to the Sphinx 3? I have the Sphinx 3 and after swapping out tubes with NOS Sylvanias, I really like it.
BTW, I like that you review equipment the average person can afford. Stereophile review equipment is out of hand!
@@pedlpower The Sphinx 3 is reviewed online (audio science review) as having a sound "like a kit amplifier, high in noise floor and distortion with a 'Class D' amplifier" ... but the solution for 'Class D' is to use loudspeakers toned for professional equipment, Tannoy Dual concentric, the Eaton and use an older affordable example,we get them cheap until we put them on a thread like this and then the prices go through the roof, so we'd get any ten/ twelve inch Tannoy dual concentric, no names given to keep prices low. 15 inch Tannoy are for very large rooms. The Zu Audio DW6 is almost certainly copied from a public address loudspeaker and uh ... has 97dB SPL, although it is 12-ohm and therefore might suit a QUAD 405-2 clone as it worked with the 11 ohm LS3/5A but use a disco or audio speaker and it will be toned to enhance 'Class D'.
@@keplermission
I have seen Amir's review of the Sphinx 3 and it does measure poorly for him but nowhere in the review does he say that it has a sound "like a kit amplifier, high in noise floor and distortion with a 'Class D' amplifier" as your quotations imply. Amir says that he didn't listen to the Sphinx. It sounds very good to me and many others and in the end that's what counts. BTW, Amir is in the minority. His is the only review that criticizes the Sphinx and he didn't even listen to it.
@@pedlpower H-713 said of the Sphinx 3, June 28th 2021: "someone who hasn't already built more tube amps / pre-amps than they know what to do with might find it perfectly enjoyable and fun to play with" ... and uh anybody could read that review and see what Amir says and I've been positive about a solution but you know, I don't have a dog in the fight and you obviously do. You don't even have the decency to share what speakers it sounds good with! Why not help buyers out? What speakers do you think the Sphinx 3 sounds good with?
@@keplermission
I'm playing the Sphinx 3 through a pair B&W CM8. But I can see where this is all going. Please watch Steve's YT Video titled "COMMENTS, BLIND TESTS, MEASUREMENTS, what do you really think?" Enjoy the music and have a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!
I own the Bel Canto 500s, one level down from their 1000 Watt monoblocks. Both have been reviewed fairly extensively at 6 Moons and made fans there. My preamp is the Audible Illusions Modulus 3B with the phono section. The combo, played through Gallo Ref 3.1s is extremely involving, huge, articulated soundstage, grippy fast bass down to about 40hz, and a slightly warm, transparent top end with no glare. Voices sound palpably present, piano and plucked strings just sound tonally correct. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Bel Canto power amps of that vintage to First Watt and Pass Labs fans, which I am. Put some tubes in the signal chain and get you some open baffle or similar speakers and get ready to enjoy across all genres, but especially midrange heavy vocal stuff, jazz. The big 500 Watt Bel Cantos own my Gallos with great authority. The latter is not the last word in slam/dynamics as with, say, top end horns, Living Voice, etc. But the music is real, palpable, engaging and the Gallo/BC/AI combo is an imaging monster. The speakers disappear completely at times. The Bel Canto 500S is a very serious, audiophile grade power amp that runs cool, but with authority, grace and is a fraction of the cost of the ultra-fi Agostino ilk for people with real world budgets. Also, give the Wyred4Sound mINT a listen. Another Class D integrated that I think will pleasantly surprise.
Good Audiophile System of the Day, featuring the ultra-hip Mary Margaret O'Hara album Miss America!
Wow! What an album! Thanks so much for pointing it out! 🔥❤️🔥
Yep... great album, great voice!
Dennis, that system is amazing. From my POV you've done everything right. From great stands to speakers placed well into the room, and twin subs and just great gear driving everything. Did the diffusers on the front wall do much for the sound field being that far away with smaller speakers? Just fantastic in everything. As far as the main show, meh on the ClassD at that price. All the practicality of class d is lost when you pay that much IMHO. As always, thanks for the great show Steve.
Thanks OldTooly, I'm glad to read your favorable comments.
Regarding the diffusers, the effect is quite marginal since I placed the speakers +/- 55 inches from the rear wall.
Initially, the speakers were 24 inches closer to the wall and the difference was more audible, mainly by adding some focus to the voices. With this configuration, the panels seemed to act on the frequencies of the voices and early harmonics.
That said, it was subtle and luckily the natural acoustics of my untreated room are good and the reverberation time is very short. Also, the first lateral reflections are more than 8 feet away from the speakers and my listening sessions are done at moderate levels, around 65-75 dB.
Otherwise, the diffusers mostly help to furnish this big gray wall and add some visual relief.
I would like to thank Steve for choosing and presenting my system.
Denis.
Great stuff! As an aside that may interest some viewers, Bel Canto and Magnepan are both headquartered in Minnesota
Thanks Steve and Dennis thanks for the Viewer System of the day - Very nice looking setup !!!!
Thank you Tee-Jay.
Nice system. I have a Hegel h360 in rotation - love it!
I prefer the ELECTROCOMPANIET 🇳🇴 and Denis took a great picture from his super Kool system. 🎉
Thorough review! A $3100 amp with a plastic remote. Unacceptable. Thanks… as always…. for the music! Would love to hear those Pure Audio Project speakers!
There are 6k integrated amps with plastic remotes. Not saying I am a fan of cheap remotes, just saying it's not uncommon to see this.
Apparently uses the Hypex NCore NC122MP module. You can get amps utilizing the NC502MP (4x more power) for 1/3 of the price of this Bel Canto.
Happy New year Steve,
Another interesting vid,.
That new camera makes you look 18,,
worth every penny..
Thanks Steve...
Regards Antony,
Warrington England...
Then you have to try the Aiyima A07! Don't let the price be a factor. It definitely sounds much much better than my older Red Wine Audio amp that was all the rage when the D's started happening, Blown away actually for speakers that aren't too demanding. $80???....fawget about it!
Nice review! I think you would Love the Marantz Reference PM-KI Hypex Class D amp. Its bigger brother the PM-10 (which I also owned) has less soul but the PM-KI is beautiful, much like how you described the Bel Canto. Exceptional Class D amps.
Love the hypex modules
That is a lot of money, considering they used an of the shelf Hypex NCORE amplifier.
All of Bel Canto's amplification is custom Ncore, not off the shelf. In addition, the built-in DAC is very high quality.
@@neilgelowitz4737
No, it is an off the shelf OEM module. It's called NC122MP OEM. 282 USD on auction sites.
Thats what makes it audiophile not whats in it but the price.
A lot of companies like Jeff Roland and bel canto use off the shelf amplifiers like B&O ice, pascal, and Hypex ncore. They are good amplifiers but they definitely overcharge considering how much the amplifiers themselves cost. TBH it would make sense to buy the amp board yourself for like 200 dollars and then get a high end DSP and you would get a similar result.
The new camera works really well. I think it's a win!
Really nice to see this review, Steve! I got the previous version of this piece -- the C7R -- in 2013, and only traded it in last year. It was versatile and I managed to use it in the main system, then as a desktop system ... and at other times was a great AV amp. And in 2018, I got the Bel Canto Black Ex Integrated. They make great stuff!
Really comprehensive. Awesome!
Best knob feel this year
lol almost 48hrs old....
Bel canto uses ice power and hypex amplifiers. They are both really good class d boards. Nice review
I to so enjoy these conversations!
Class-D is my first choice. I live in a dusty desert and the class-d amps typically don’t need ventilation therefor they don’t accumulate dust internally over the years.
@@drewyoung2102 the best amp I ever heard
I have places in Las Vegas NV as well as Albuquerque, NM. I haven't had dust issues. Just clean your stuff.
Good comment, I live in southern NM and dust is everywhere. Like, everywhere. Places you wouldn't ever think dust would get into.
Steve…I believe back in your CNET days you reviewed a Bel Canto power amp and loved it! I hope you review more in ‘23?
The Bel Canto + KEF LS 50’s sounds like a wonderfully simple, small and elegant system. I LOVE, LOVE LOVE the size of this integrated. The price is reasonable when you consider its an amp, preamp and dac in 2022 prices. I also like the coolness (as in temp) of Class D.
The Bel Canto only offers a 2 year warranty. Is this average for amps today? I have no idea. I would hope it could last 25+ years, problem free?
Anyone know how Bel Canto is with out of warranty service and long term parts availability?
Yes, Steve, it's a nice bright picture with lots of detail. A bit like a Hegel H390 for the eyes, if you will.
Beautiful system and what wonderful Lighting!
Thanks Mr. Scratch
I think Steve should review other class D amplifiers, like the NAD C298 or M23 which have the Purifi Eigentakt technology. Not clear which chip this amp has.. Great review and glad that it works with various speakers!
Hypex NC122MP amp is inside this one
Did he really say, "Knob-feel is exceptionally good. One of the best I've felt all year."? Mister Guttenberg!
Happy New Year Steve Guttenberg..keep up your great work..we await with baited breath for new systems of the day...Chow..
Thanks for that review. Been considering that amp because of its size.
I really hope one day you may review PS Audio M 1200 mono blocks !! Class D hybrid. I’m curious about your thoughts on those.
Thanks again!
Steve…. 20 years ago a had a Spectron class D amp… and the sounds was wonderful..
Love the enthousiasm ! Great review
Tony Williams demonstrates the difference between a Rock Drummer and a Jazz Drummer and the different styles of drumming are substantially different.
Thanks for the review. There aren't many reviews on Bel Canto. I wish the company brings their products to shows more often and talks about them. I love the form factor and would be interested in the products, but I don't feel confident buying them.
I Love the way knobs feel too.
While I will not be giving up my class A/B amp any time soon, it seems class D has finally arrived.
Cool review Steve, I'm looking for a new integrated amp but, I dig an A/B chassis.
I was thinking the visuals looked better - and top notch - new camera doing its work! Using the Schiit Loki, that you sold me on, the sound is also better...
Glad to hear that, thanks for watching.
Hypex Ncore NC122MP d class amp is inside, if anyone wonders. 2x125W into 4ohm load. Stable down to 1ohm.
looks amazing, if only had eArc HDMI input
I picked up the C6i predecessor the c5i and I haven't looked up the generational difference between the two but I've been quite satisfied with it in the bedroom system I'm using it in. The only thing I kind of feel crappy about is they've raised the price on that thing quite a bit, on my c5i I think I paid 2000 bucks for it. so the new models half as much more again,which in my opinion at that point if I was looking to purchase something for three grand it wouldn't be this.
Now don't get me wrong it's not a bad amp or at least my c5i and much as Steve talks about here I really feel it's been one of the first class d amplifiers that I've listened to where I'm thinking man this sounds good, and it's not just sounds good, more that it makes you feel the emotion of the music which to me is paramount when I'm listening. but yeah for three grand I would not be buying this.
The only thing going for it that I can see honestly is it's small form factor although again for that amount of money there are small form factor amplifiers that I would prefer.
The C6i is a significant Sonic upgrade over the C5i and also has twice the power.
@@ASherrick02 Actually, the power is almost identical, but the C6i is a much superior amp. I've been a Bel Canto dealer for over 20 years and while the C5i was very nice, the C6i is well worth the price difference.
@@neilgelowitz4737 their specs say 125W but don't specify whether that's an 8 or 4 ohm load.
@@ASherrick02 Ah yes, Bel Canto doesn't show it, but it is 4-ohms. I specify it as 4 ohms on my site (Everest Audio).
C5i uses ICEPower 125asx2 module, which is 2x60W/4ohm and 2x70W/8ohm WITHOUT THERMAL SHUTDOWN, that means continuous. Which gives you roughly 50W of clean power. That is not too little, people tend to underestimate how loud even 5W is. The C6i has a Hypex NC122NP Ncore amp inside, 2x125W/4ohm, stable down to 1 ohm. Hypex is regarded generally much better SQ than ICEpower according to THD numbers. I don't think the differences are that big, if any. Many have the overall system gain set wrong, which messes the THD numbers up.
That subwoofer works really Rel ! 😂
For those that use pricey, large gauge, cables. Did you notice the leads going to the speaker posts? They are 18 gauge at best and they terminate into a very small plug on the circuit board. Seems like this would make large gauage cables moot.
Wow -> L👀ks like the Bel Canto C6i class D integrated competes well with the True-Blue Box CDA, but has both a line out and a headphone out to boot.
Sure would have saved me from making speaker to subwoofer and speaker to transformer coupled headphone interfaces. Nice review :)
Yay!! I’ve had a Bel Canto years ago. Now I have a Devialet Expert 250 Pro. I love what they do for my Hyperion 968. Wish Frank would leave his shirt on, yikes.
It’s using an HYPEX NCore amplifier module NC122MP. That’s alright. When it comes to class-D, some module expert companies do it better and some OEMs can then integrate their modules.
@SteveGuttenbergAudiophilia go away - scammer
Can someone help me on this. If a new vinyl record after 1983 is in digital form, how does it make it analog? Not all records are analog, if newer, are they? I've heard many times, people say they play vinyl because it is analog. Are all vinyl considered analog? Thanks.
You should try and review the Wyred4Sound mINT integrated. It is small, has a great DAC, headphone output, plenty of power and sounds great. And it only costs $1500.
Any thoughts on this series of Bel Canto vs the Gato offerings?
Best volume control so far this year (2023) 😮😂
Steve, I was wondering if the rogue Sphinx v3 stack up against the bel canto c6i? Seems your description of the beL canto is similar to the Rogue Sphinx v3.
LMAO at the binding posts - fancy 'audiophile' on the outside, 1/4" spades with split insulation on the inside. Quality.
Yes, new camera was worth it.
I'm always reading that class D amps are used with Magnapans, and yet I've heard Steve say- many times, that class D sucks the life out of music? Actually, other reviewers too. I believe both things could be true- along with not all class D amps are created equal. But I'm curious what it is about class D amps that work particularly well with Magnapans. Damping factor? Just more usable power?
Is good but too expensive for sure. Thanks Steve 🎹🥁🎶🎵❤️🙏
$3200 with one knob and clunky menus! Hard pass on that one, for sure.
Not just that, the power is pretty much ridiculous for the price. You can get four times the power at the same quality for half the price.
A lot of class D amps are like tofu. Tofu is relatively tasteless on its own and needs added flavouring to taste good.
I thinks this applies to a lot of class D amps. Exceptions are for example the PS Audio M1200 mono blocks. Its a hybrid class d solid mosfet output with a class A triode tube stage. This doesn’t sound like class D, except for a little less refinement in upper frequencies compared to a really good class A amp.
The Dick Hyman recording is sensational.
Thx again Steve. Have you reviewed any of the GaN amps yet, if so which impressed you more?
When you replace your amp with it let me know. I no longer believe any reviews unless I see what they have come out and the new so great item go in and stay in.
If its not a keeper for you its not worth my time either.
After trying two class AB integrated’s (Rotel A-11 tribute and Arcam SA-10 ) i returned both ! no bass , no power , empty sound and that’s boring to me , So i keep my Denon pma-600 ne (class D)that i like so much and for $495 can’t beat it !
sorry to burst your bubble, but that denon is not class d.
at the end of the day though I think the big thing that people often do is as an every man audiophile as most people are, they tend to fall into the biases that exists among product reviewers that exist within the Hi-Fi community. and they don't take the time to really investigate these products with their own ears. I knew a guy who swore up and down that class d sucked but yet he had never heard one of any kind. And I think to myself how can you come by that judgment with no firsthand experience. I guess it's human nature huh, have you experience one type of thing that's bad or not to your liking then most people automatically make the assumption that all things of that type are bad.
I noticed the better crisper video before you even mentioned the new camera. I can see more wrinkles! 🙂
terrific review! The amp sounds very appealing. Might be nice to hear it compared to the Vincent SV-237 Mark II. Similarly priced but a hybrid tube/solid state amp so should be markedly different. Do you think you'll get a chance to review it?
No Steve, uh ... Nelson Pass would say completely ignore the 12-ohm character of Larry's uh ... Zu Audio DW6 and go for what people reckon sounds best with it. So the Stereo Maraschino amp is uh you know, the easy to pay option and uh, the best sound is from the Russian G9 Audio Nero 120 pre/power set and that's that. No more Larry, just a satisfied customer busy enjoying music at home. No more demands for reviews of all kinds of (low priced) bits and bobs.
Looks to have the build quality and style of a Topping at only 20x the price.
hi Steve, could you please consider reviewing the Keces S300? That appears to be a powerhouse compact 130W amp, direct coupled from JFET input to MOSFET output, priced at $3,200.
That amp looks really good! Nice value too. I've started using a lateral MOSFET output amplifier recently.... Very linear and natural sound with fast and creamy bass.
@@peterlarkin762Is it a DIY or branded amp? To me the Keces S300 looks like it might fill the gap pf premum build but affordable Far Eastern amps, with some Far Eastern brands hiking their prices beyond belied e.g. Accuphase, Luxman and Marantz moving to Class D.
Expensive! If you only need one RCA input, what does this give you that the $100 audioscience favourite, Aiyima A07, doesn't?
Belcanto sounds like you might find their products in the back of a free magazine posted through your door, with stretchy trousers for old people. And pegs for your washing line.
I don't know...maybe I will check out some Class D amps at an audio show or something. The ones I heard in the shops were not great, even though others were going OOOO-and-AAAA, I was not impressed. No soul, no magic. But that was a couple of years ago.
All these Hypex and Purifi based amps sound about the same. Really, the only way manufacturers can differentiate themselves is by coloring the sound with input circuitry, buffers etc.
Get some Orchard Audio Starkrimson GaN monoblocks.
New camera? Do tell. Feels a little more detailed in the highlights and mid tone/skin tone is smooth as buttah. Shadows feel a tad bit more open.
Hypex is now releasing NcoreX modules which will be even higher performing than these Ncore modules. But probably won’t be in these consumer products for a few months still.
One of the best volume knobs you have felt this year? This year is 2 days old.
I agree. How many knobs can you feel in a day and a half?
Think you missed the point Richard. A year is 365 days. Don’t recall Steve saying , “of 2022”.
I had Bel Canto REF500M monoblocks for a number of years... ignorance is bliss. in retrospect, while they didnt suck, I would never own them again... except for maybe Home Theater
I was thinking of going NAD 3050. Way more features for less than this guy. But, I don't know what sound I'm in for. Never tried class D. What do you think?
I have the c-388 NAD integrated add blueOs module total cost 2000 US has Dac as well very versataile 150W more than enough I for most speakers .Im not looking for the AbsoluteSound after 55 years had many systems etc. Came finally to the conclusion to enjoy the music equipment became secondary.
Can you compare this to the AUDIOPHONICS DA-S125NC? It uses the same amplifier module and costs ~600 EUR.
This my issue with class D. I'm sure bel canto put lots of R&D into this, but high end class D amps just aren't good value for money. If Bel canto made this a class ab amp, it would cost them WAY more to build. They are making more profit from class D, without giving us more features, functions, etc.
@@peterlarkin762 They use the same OEM amp module. That's why I'm interested.
I'd be interested to know how this compares to the Rogue Sphinx versions since the power ratings are similar, and both are Class D. I realize the Bel Canto costs twice as much, but still would be a valid comparison.
Steve liked the Sphinx, but maybe he didn't love it? I have the Sphinx 3 and it's a darn good amp. One of the tubes went microphonic and I'm running NOS Sylvanias now. Sounds really nice.
they are both hypex ncore based and possibly use the same amp modules so an excellent comparison. no DAC surely an advantage for sphinx- putting 3k down 3k on an amp guessing you prefer a seperate? - sphinx also has tube input stage renown for giving class D some body. on paper, my money's on the sphinx...
@@robh9079 better preamp section for sure
@@pedlpower I too enjoy my Sphinx V3 a great deal. I put it into play in June 2020. To date, there's been no tube 'failure'. I'd be curious to hear more description regarding those Sylvania tubes. In my correspondence with Rogue Audio (they're located pretty close to me), I received the following recommendation for replacement tubes, when needed: "We have RCA cleartops 12AU7’s that are $100 per pair and are tested for low noise; they sound great"
@@zizendorf
My Sphinx sounded great when I first got it. Within a week there was something "off". It sounded no better than the Onkyo amp it replaced. No imaging, terrible soundstage if any at all, meh. I called the dealer and said I think I wanted to return it. He recommended I play it more to break it in. No good.
Seven months later a tube went microphonic and I replaced with the NOS Sylvania 12AU7A. It now sounds great! Just like it did on day one. That tube was junk from the start!
)-: they have that sales-model where they link to distributors -- these (in some countries at any rate e.g Switzerland) are wholesalers -- you have to contact them for any info about actual dealers. I've come across this often with hifi equipment -- mostly high end. I guess they don't need too many customers so they make it hard to get...
Here in u.k. with energy prices very nearly trippled, I'm keeping my mind very open now, about "Trustedly Well Reviewed" class D amplifiers. I currently run a class A amp & it's stated consumption of 600 Watts is irregaurdless of if it's idling silent with no signal playing or if it's playing mighty loud, (technically, pure class A runs most efficiently at 2/3'rds of it's capable vollume, (source: a 35'yr old issue of my "Wireless World" electronics magazine collection) such is Class A & nearly as such are very warm running hi-biased class A/B. (Efficient cool-running pure class B amps sound boring & I don't think anyone at all makes them anymore since s/state early 1960's days)
I used to turn my system on 30 or 40'ish minutes before I thought I may want to listen to music soon & half those times ...I'd be distracted by some other activity & the amp & etc would stay on for hours ...just in case I'll want to listen later & that practice had stopped as soon as energy prices virtually trippled in u.k.
Class D amps now becomes financially very appealing, while non-amp gear uses a fraction of class A or hi-biased class A/B amps.
I'm hence glad class D is clearly improving.
I never imagined a day I couldn't afford to turn on my stereo.
Check out orchard audio's starkrimson ultra. That'll very efficiently get yer toes tappin.
@@TriAmpHiFi ...it even goes beyond money now the W.E.F. have convinced western 'developed' countries to sign-up for introduced
" 'Anti Global Warming' Government Purposed Power-Cuts" to roll out over a changing rota of each nation's designated zones for timed periods" ..time periods before a freezer defrosts? i hope (if we've food to freeze). Global elitist's plans had nothing to do with my hi-fi hobby but i've succumbed from what I heard stated & that directly caused me to begin thinking of a 1 or 2 car'battery fed, power-cut handy, 12v music system. Running a spare d.c. belt-drive motored deck.. (via a £1:50p dc voltage regulator) ..fed into my (usefully already 12v d.c. wart-fed) Dynavector P75/3 phono stage while plugged into my... (removed when & if necessary) 12v car'stereo c.d. tuner amp via it's line input jack for my phono stage (or buy a similar s/h car stereo unit) From previous experience, an indoor car stereo & car battery does lasts a surprising long time on 'comfortable' volumes, tho i could re-charge 1 or each of 2 batteries by swapping them for my car battery on rota. That's my plan ...if fuel is available by then & if not, it's me & my accoustic guitars & my wife can learn the bongo's(?)
P.S. I fully understand this reply may be removed as I've drifted into political territory of "revealed facts aligning with a Huxley/ Orwellian totalitarian discomforts" that effect hi-fi but purely from my love of reproduced music.
The extra power is getting turned into heat. If you change your amp you'll have to turn up your home heating thermostat! 600watts on idle is nuts.
purifi and hypex class d modules perform better then Class A Class A/B
Another Great review.
Am really curious as to how these Class D compare to some of the budget Class D like the Aiyima A07 or A08?
Valid question. I don't think Steve will ever review anything as cheap as the Aiyima. Audiophiles rarely admit that the sound difference between 100 bucks and 3100 bucks is probably imperceptible to most.
@@KBoneZone
I'll buy an A07 and resell it to him for $2000. That should do it. 🤣👍
@@KBoneZonewell I've got a good analogy for you, it's like comparing a Kia Rio to a Mercedes E-Class. I mean they both get you from a to b but one of them does it so much more nicely, which better fitments and feel and extravagantly more well appointed.
Steve - Is it reasonable to extrapolate the performance of the Bel Canto with the Magnepan LRS+ to a pair of larger Magnepans, specifically, the 3.7i? Or should I look for more power? Class D is appealing due to size, cool running.
Yeah, I think you need more power than this for 3.7.
If you care to hear a review of the visual quality since you mentioned the new camera, the lighting on the right side of your face is a little bright. Maybe a soft shade over the window if that's the source of the light?
Thanks
Hi Steve, I just bought a Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum III in advance of getting some LaScalas. I was hoping tubes might soften the speakers a little. Have you reviewed this integrated amp?
I am still running my Maggies with a Schiit preamp and Emotiva XPA 2, with the Maggie bass panel I am 4 ohms, the 500wpc is useful
This amp i probably realy good, but the inside photo show's some of the crazy stuff in this audiphile hobby... People will probably use expensive and nice speakercables.. the WBT bindingposts are great and good.. but on the inside there is cheap and simple cableshoes connected to the WBT's.. so.. yeah.. that must be a realy weakspot in the chain if this cable madness is true? ;) Can't wait for the comments :)
How does it compare to TEAC AP-701 using Hypex NCORE also ?
Have to say it's about time you reviewed one of bel cantos products. The Minnesota company has been making great stuff into the early 2000s. Maybe earlier. And they have been making class d amps sound great (and not lifeless! Or sterile) for many years. Even before this big wave of class d this and that. They make greats dacs and streamers as well!
@SteveGuttenbergAudiophilia I don't use telegram. Contact through email or other ways?
Maybe it’s time to listen more to what class D has to offer Steve. I resend your comment of the M33 Purifi Amp sounding dull. It is the best sound ever produced in my living room. Far from dull.
well I think it really comes down to preferences, maybe you don't find it dull but maybe he did and at the end of the day maybe you're both right.
I currently have a c298 which has a very similar output stage to the m33 and I love it but I could definitely see where people wouldn't.
No XLR ? Weird
where is xlr needed?
its a integrated amp, xlr between dac and poweramp i see the need or between preamps and dac.
Class D does seem to sweeten some harsh digital media🤔
Is not lyngdorf td class d?
Hypex NC122MP OEM - 282 USD online.
Steve, you lost me with this most recent review. Two years ago, your review partially "sold" me on a Rogue Audio Sphinx V3. It too is a class D amp. So you talk about not liking them in this review although, you liked the Sphinx 2 years ago? Here's you: ua-cam.com/video/b7B8wn9-x1w/v-deo.html
By the way, I love my Sphinx paired with Tannoy speakers!
No doubt the Rogue Sphinx should have been mentioned in this review since they're similar. (Except for the prices)
anyone know which Hypex module this uses?
This unit uses the Hypex NC122MP OEM module. There are a few on eBay with a 'Buy it Now' price of $282. The seller needs to make a profit and pay eBay + possibly PayPal fees so the OEM price from Hypex is likely to be much less. I'm guessing $125 - $175 for a reasonable quantity.
The performance of any amplifier built around Hypex Class D modules is going to be 90+ percent identical to all the dozens of other amplifiers built around the same modules. Regardless of what sort of bells and whistles you combine them with, it's those modules that are going define and limit what gets to the speakers.
The hypex modules are great. Bel canto is doing unique things with it though.
@@Phloored -- All you can do is add those bells and whistles. Ultimately, the GIGO -- Good In, Good Out or Garbage In, Garbage Out -- principle applies. A good Class D module -- and Hypex modules, although no longer the very best, are danged good products -- is going to accurately reproduce whatever signal it gets from the rest of the circuit. I suspect some actual SOTA measurements -- which I know are outside The Audiophiliac's wheelhouse as a reviewer -- might discover what Bel Canto did to the front end of this amplifier to earn Steve's attention and enthusiasm when on the output side it's identical to dozens of other products built around the same modules.
@@Phloored
They can't do anything to the modules themselves. Just add a DAC and there you go.
The modules are listed on Walm*** for $342.33.
Class D is big NO in my world
Yep same here. Sure they are great for subwoofer but for the mids and high, never class d. Havent heard a class d amp that sounds better than a class a/b and a at the same price point.
@@justanobody4983 For my taste and music that i like SE tube amp are sound best, but this is highly subjective.
@@munja2111 subjective as with all audio. Some like tube and some like solid state. But still agree, class d has no place in my audio (except for subwoofers).
Pretty soon all music will only be appreciated by people with means. Between the schools cutting down on programs and the music industry catering the uber rich with significant disposable income .... maybe only a handful can enjoy a descent music system.
The Bel Canto website isn't that good
Dont hear a word about the oh so awesome klipsch 600m now do you.
I know a guy who will sell you some.....
Test!
Seems like posts are being deleted or blocked. testing testing
test
No it's still broken keep trying
I respect your opinions but I’m of the “trust but verify” mindset. I’ve heard class D Amps and even previous versions of this one in demos and I gotta say, I was NOT impressed. I have to reasonably conclude component matching is crucial. And a system has to be built around the amp. Just not sold yet.
Nice review !
If your spending his much money you should wait until you can buy the world's very best at $7999 and be done for life! , the Whammerdyne Audio DGA-1 Ultra Tube Integrated amp...the best amps on planet earth period😇
That's just Your opinion.
Buy tube amplifiers if you enjoy distortion.
The view inside that box and the price tag don't add up. Signals passed through ribbon cables? No toroidal transformer? How do we get to the $3k+ price? No thanks.
How?
At least 5x markup.
The old R&D excuse all theses companies use.
@@tikilord66
Other companies R&D on top of that. The amplifier module is an OEM unit that you can buy for $282 on auction sites.
That Stevie Ray CD is pretty bad there is no feeling to the recording
I’ve got 4 others by SRV. They’re all like that, plus or minus a little. Great music, unfortunate over compression. I still listen anyway - he is just too good.