What about the Belles SA-100?

Because all the '150 iterations have been around for so long maybe the ref 150 and 350 were easy upgrade paths. Maybe because ones system that they would have in place are mostly 'ready made' for the upper grade amps of the 150ref or 350's. Could be one reason for not hearing hardly anything about the other amps. Just a thought. When Dave began early on his first commercial amp was primarely a class a design and it was a great amp. So he has a lot of experience in designing a SA-30/SA-100 type of amp. So I would be looking at those if I ever need to change what I have. I thought I would just mention that when I have looked inside a Belles amp I don't see boutique parts. I think Dave eschews those things as much as he can. I think Dave just has solid designs. Nothing sexy but unbelievably good sounding with a wide range of speakers, very high standards of build quality and parts, and also nice looking.

Belles is excellent and extremely impressive.
I just upgraded my 150a Hot-Rod version with the freshly purchased 150a Ref v2. Right out the box without warming up (literally), my jaw was on the floor. My eyes were wide open staring on the "image". it was so much inner body and sparkling on the Highs. Image was so clean and clear. I felt that i was just not being closer to tbe stage but actually on it. The vibration of each keys from piano and strings on guitar were so much vibrant and real. How did Belles do that right out the box?
About an hour later, i got lost in music instead of, as usual, listening to my gear.
The amp responses well with neutral and detail cables/cords too.
I have had tried couple amps on Agon but I must way this is one heck of the amp. Dealer been trying to tell me that the upper level ones will left me speechless...
I paid full price for this amp Belles 150a Ref v2 and not regret 1 bit.
Hope this help and great luck with your search.

I have had a 150A Hot Rod that I use in my BR system for years, and I bought it used. Very musical, plenty of grunt, a steal for the money even new. Assume Ref series even better.

Neal

Yes. The Ref v2 is a total diff animal though still has the signature sound of the HotRod.
I was very skeptical before the upgrade. Wondered how much more the Ref v2 could be better than the , already good, HotRod or could it just be the name changed for marketing. But Belles proved me wrong; it's an awesome amp and a very BIG step up from Hotrod.

Your dealer is right, the upper models will leave you speechless. I have a Belles SA-100 which is in a different class. I am serious. That is also why I was wondering in the first place that this amp is not more popular among audiophiles. Anyone in need of a serious upgrade should audition this one.