Bel Canto Ref1000 MK2 Or Ref 500m ?

I love the Bel Canto Ref 1000 Mk.2, now renamed Ref 1000M. I have reviewed it for PFO:
http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue43/bel_canto_ref1000.htm

I have heard the Ref 500M at shows at significant length, but not in my system. I have heard unconfirmed reports that the Ref 500M may sound even sweeter than its more powerful brother. As far as I know, Ref 1000M is driven by ICEpower 1000 ASP modules, while Ref 500 M may contain ICEpower 500 ASP modules, which yield up to 250W over 8 Ohms.

Unfortunately the BelCanto web site does not seem to mention the modules contained in their amps. I know my info on Ref 1000M is correct, but I am not completely sure about Ref 500M. I will call Bel Canto tomorrow and will find out.

G.

Guido, The 500S uses the newer ASX2 module. I was curious so I opened mine up for a look. As for the 500M, I would be interested to know. It would be nice if Bel Canto were a bit more forth coming with this info on their web site.

I think Guido is correct about the type of ice module in 500M. Keep us posted!

Hello Timrhu,
for what I have read from the specs, the ASX2 seams capable to produce only 2x250 watt on 4 Ohm, where the ASP500 reach 500watt.

Guido, keep us in touch, it will be very interesting to know some official position from Bel Canto.
Just a curiosity, Guido are you Italian?

Ciao
Giuseppe

Some update from my previous post.
I see an internal picture of the ref500M from an Italian magazine (Fedeltà Del Suono), and the internal ICE module look like this one: http://www.icepower.bang-olufsen.com/i/solutions/asx_series1b_290109.jpg

I read specs more carefully and the power rating of this module is 550W, 4Ω
I think Timrhu was right.