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Amplifier ideas with KEF Reference 1

I'm thinking about pulling the trigger on a pair of KEF reference 1's for my 10'x14' office (currently LS50's). Current electronic setup is all PS Audio (bhk monoblocks, bhk  signature preamp, directstream dac). Incredible sound, zero complaints other than the fact that the monoblocks run hot. I'm getting cooked so the whole ps audio setup is listed for sale.... Although it just may end up at home for a future 2 channel setup!

So with that background, please share ideas for a high quality system that's cool running. Budget up to $15k. I'll add that I favor the warmer side of the spectrum. I'm a bass player and like tight, fast, deep bass..... Glorious mids, and smooth highs. Current ideas to match with the  KEF Reference 1's include:

1. Bel Canto Black EX (integrated or the separates). My contact says the separates are far superior. I'm concerned this setup is too analytical. Anyone heard them?

2. Bel Canto Ref600m. Keep my directstream dac and bhk signature preamp. Probably more than good for an office!?!

3. Hegel 360 or the new forthcoming monster integrated (590)? They're not too pretty to look at but it seems like I've read about hegel and kef being matched at several audio shows. Is there a hegel house sound particularly with the KEF’s?

4. McIntosh mc611. I'll admit it.... I'm a sucker for the looks of McIntosh plus their easy listenability. I've never had ear fatigue listening to a McIntosh setup. I'd be keeping the directstream dac and bhk signature preamp for this combo. Afraid that is be giving up a lot going from the bhk monoblocks to the McIntosh with similar heat. 

5. Luxman L509x. Brand new. Supposed to be very musical and runs cool. I'd probably run with the directstream dac. 

Your thoughts / ideas are appreciated.... Especially if you've heard the recommendation with KEF reference 1's. It's all about system synergy, right!?!

thank you,
ken


keoliphant
everest_audio
285 posts
 
I'm a big fan of your first listed choice, the Bel Canto Black EX integrated. It's what I run in my own system. Disclosure: I'm a Canadian dealer.

The Bel Canto Black EX isn't analytical sounding at all. The signature is neutral to just slightly warm with powerful, deep and controlled bass. My ATC SCM40 speakers haven't sounded this powerful at the bottom before. Mids and upper end are very smooth. The DAC section is really the key to this piece. World-class DAC section including full MQA decoding from TIDAL. You'd have a very simple system. I feed the Ethernet input on the Bel Canto Black EX with a Melco N1A/2 via a Wireworld Platinum Ethernet cable and the combination is incredible.

Sure, the Black separates would be a step up, but at considerably more cost and you'd need a really good XLR cable between. With that said, the Black EX integrated is a very high end performer on its own and plays in an elite crowd.

The Hegel amps are known to work very well with KEF and I'm a fan of the H360. Excellent value. But, if the Bel Canto is in your budget, it definitely plays at a higher level, which it certainly should as per the price difference and fits the qualities you're looking for.
keoliphant OP
86 posts
 
Thanks Everest. What speakers have you found pair best with the Black EX integrated?
everest_audio
285 posts
 
We haven't had it for a very long period of time,so I haven't tried it with a wide variety of models. Love it with the ATC SCM40. Also tried it briefly with Dynaudio Special Forty and Alta Audio Lelantos. Performed very well with all three. 
keoliphant OP
86 posts
 
Follow up question Everest. You mention needing a really good XLR cable for the Black EX separates. Would a WireWorld Gold Eclipse 7 (XLR) suffice?

Thanks!
Ken
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