I have the Aria and i really could not be happier. Ive had it for three-four months. I selected it over the Elex-R and a Naim ( both great integrateds btw). The Belles just had the IT factor which I really don't have the words for. With the Fritz Rev 7s, I hear very good clarity with being too clinical. Though it has MOSFETs, it is not overly warm. At the end of the day, and i mean every day, Im up in my lil music room for a couple of hours enjoying my setup. Dont think you can go wrong
Belles Aria Signature and other Int Amp recommendation
While searching for an Integrated Amp to go with my new Ascend Acoustics Sierra Tower speakers that I ordered, one Int Amp pique my interest is the Belles Aria Signature. Although, not too much information on the Internet, but the few I did see seems to be all positive
One of the key things caught my attention is the use of MOSFET output devices, where both MOSFETs and vacuum tubes are both voltage controlled devices and their transfer functions are similar as well. My limited experience with MOSFETs impart a tube-like sound with the low-end grunt of amps using bi-polar transistors. If implements well, it is the best of both worlds, and I hope to get some inputs from people having more experience.
Meanwhile, I am also hope to have some recommendations on other SS Int Amps that is in the similar price range as Belles Aria Signature and see what I can do to arrange some audition.
TIA
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I agree that it would be best to have a chat with Johnny R. I've heard both, and I found the Signature more muscular and energetic than the regular, no doubt due to its increased power supply. At the same time, I found it a little less sweet or delicate than the regular, though admittedly the Sig wasn't fully broken in. My point remains. Some manufacturers make a "signature" version of a product, but what that really means can vary considerably. Gold plated connectors, better wire, costier caps, or whatever. The Aria Signature is substantially re-engineered, though retaining some of the original DNA of the regular.
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@twoleftears , Thank you for more detailed listening impressions. Sounds like you enjoy the Aria quite nicely.
@b_limo , Good to have such a positive endorsement. Is it fine to know what amp did you change to? |
I listened to both amps plus the Virtuoso for over an hour last month at Audio Connection thru Vandersteen Treos. I loved both Arias and am trying to decide which to buy. I felt the characteristics of the base model were retained and improved in the Sig level. I went in expecting to get the entry level but the 2 per models were just better although I felt the jump to the top amp at $7k or so was a case of diminishing returns. But the Sig is really special and I felt like the extra investment was returned in improved sound, power, product build, etc. |
- 29 posts total