2. amps-preamps
  3. 136686-36148

Bel Canto ACI600 vs Black EX Sepates

I'm trying to decide between these two Bel Canto beauties for an office setup. Both are similarly priced.... The ACI 600 is an integrated version of the 55k Black system. The Black EX separates are the more budget friendly system.

Whatever I choose, they'll be driving KEF Reference 1's.

I'm looking for advice/impressions from people who have owned these systems or heard them at an audio show/dealer. What are the pros/cons of each setup?

Please, no advice on different electronics or speakers.

Thanks!
Ken
keoliphant
a1uc's avatar
a1uc
55 posts
 
I decided to demo the Black system ASC2
at home before pulling the trigger and should have it setup in a couple days . I really enjoy the C-900u/M-900u combo I 
currently own . I understand the black system is not cheap but as a system with all the options it comes with is not really out of line . 

riaa_award_collectors_on_facebook's avatar
riaa_award_collectors_on_facebook
981 posts
 
Its only out of line in terms of resale value which you might want to do your homework on. Luxman you can get those pieces brand new for $10,500 each and re-sell for 8-9K easily. The loss is 20% worse case scenario...compared to 50-60% trying to sell the BC...and even at that loss wont be easy to move. Guess it all depends on how affluent you are.
a1uc's avatar
a1uc
55 posts
 
I pulled the trigger on the ASC2 system , so far I am really impressed . I have had 1 issue and it suppose to be taken care in the couple days with a new FW 
Post removed 
savjam
48 posts
 
I am thinking of upgrading to either an EX integrated or the ACI600 integrated. I currently use what was previously bel canto top of the line DAC and power amps: 3.7 DAC connected to the VBL1 using their REF cable with their REF600M amps. I am using an excellent streamer into a REF Link connected to the DAC via ST fiber. I consider the sound to be very good. Is the EX integrated a big step up in performance compared to my current setup? Is the amps in the EX integrated as good as the REF 600Ms?  Second, does the Seek app access Tidal directly from the Ethernet cable connected to the internet? Thanks in advance for your help.
More to discover