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News about Bel Canto Dac2 Release

Thought I would give members a heads up and print an e-mail
(with permission of BC) I received from Bel Canto inquiring about when update for Dac 1.1 will be ready:

>>>We are coming out with the DAC2 in a couple weeks. The DAC2 is a completely new d/a converter from Bel Canto. It does 24 bit/ 192 kHz upsampling using the very latest hardware in a very sophisticated design. The DAC2 will be available as an upgrade to DAC1 customers for $700. You will need the 1.1 power supply, which costs $150 if you do not. Preliminary listening indicates that the DAC2 comes very close to SACD and DAD in sound, potentially becoming "The Reference". It is THAT good. Please let me know of your intentions as our first run is already
spoken for. <<<

All sounds very good as I have been very happy with Dac 1.1,
and can't wait for reports from the field on Dac 2.

Gunbei, may-be you should have waited on that Kora Dac?
128x128megasam
gunbei
2,327 posts
 
Sam, unfortunately Dekay sold his DAC 1.1. We should talk him into getting the new unit, then he'll be one of the few people that has heard all three versions of the Bel Canto.

Rupe, $1300? Wow! If the unit is better than the 1.1 AND $125 cheaper, that would be incredible.
gunbei
2,327 posts
 
I received an e-mail from Craig Bleeker of Bel Canto Design stating that they are trying for a release of the DAC2 in two weeks or less. They'll also have a better idea of what the turnaround time will be for converting a DAC 1 or 1.1 to 2 status will take in about a week or so.
stereomaniac
75 posts
 
Very interesting to hear discussions of Bel Canto 1.1 and the Kora Hermes, both have been on my short list along with Audio Note DAC 1.2x. I like the tube sound (I used to have an Audio Note DAC1) and wonder how the new BC DAC2 will sound in that regard. $1300 sounds very reasonable.

Thanks for the info!

John
gunbei
2,327 posts
 
John, since I got the Kora I was all set on selling my DAC 1.1, but this news has really caused me to slam on the brakes. If I can swing the cash I might do the upgrade, then compare it to the Kora. I love the Kora! The tubes really work their magic. I've heard that the upgrades to your Audio Note are outstanding as well.
war4227
1 posts
 
I have got beta version of the dac2
which I used at the CES2002 Orca room
no kidding it leaves all orther dacs
I'v heard for dead in my system BC has
done a great job with it. I would say
with the right transport it'l match the
Linn and many other super expensive players.
over Dac1 it has more slame, huge stage and
better focus and with all that it's more musical
this one is for vinyl freaks
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