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General Asylum: REVIEW: Bel Canto Design EVo. 200.2 Amplifier (SS) by jonbee

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REVIEW: Bel Canto Design EVo. 200.2 Amplifier (SS)

12.228.8.198


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Model: EVo. 200.2
Category: Amplifier (SS)
Suggested Retail Price: $2200
Description: Stereo digital switching amp using chip technology for very low distortion
Manufacturer URL: Bel Canto Design
Model Picture: View

Review by jonbee ( A ) on January 12, 2002 at 23:33:29
IP Address: 12.228.8.198
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for the EVo. 200.2


This is a tough review, in a way, because this amp sounds unlike any other I've heard. I've read many reviews of it, and most of them are correct in their own way. The things I can say that are pretty clear: There is greater detail, opennness, and depth than anything I've heard. This detail is combined with a refreshing easiness to the sound. It also sounds more dynamically reserved than other good SS amps, although I think that the EVO might be the more accurate in this regard. This reserve seems most noticeable in the mids, which seem more recessed, but this might just be because of a total lack of coloration and emphasis. It thus sounds a little lean and dry, but also as clear as pure water. The bottom end is not as powerful, dynamic and extended as my CJ 2300A, and could be a problem for some, but the midbass definition is amazing. I use a powered sub, so this is not an issue for me. Another perception: you don't need to listen as loud with this amp. The detail is right there, at almost any volume. I'd like to hear two run as monoblocks; as it is, one of these is a clear look into the recordings, moreso than anything I've heard,(and I've heard plenty of good amps). I'm sure this amp won't be everyone's cup of tea, and system matching is very important. If you prize tonal accuracy over euphony, or just want to hear a different presentation of your recordings, give it a listen. You may want to adjust your expectations.


Product Weakness: Laid back quality(not necessarily a weakness), not the most powerful or deep bass.
Product Strengths: Clarity, ease of presentation, detail, depth. Low power consumption, cool running. Price!


Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier: EVO, CJ2300A
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated): CJ PFR
Sources (CDP/Turntable): Sony 7000 as transport, Genesis time lens,Sony 333 SACD,MSB Gold DAC
Speakers: Merlin VSM GenIIIRC, Legacy Impact sub
Cables/Interconnects: Goertz MI2, TQ
Music Used (Genre/Selections): lots
Room Size (LxWxH): 22 x 18 x 8
Room Comments/Treatments: Two wall of glass
Time Period/Length of Audition: 3 days
Other (Power Conditioner etc.): Monster Cable 2000
Type of Audition/Review: Product Owner




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Topic - REVIEW: Bel Canto Design EVo. 200.2 Amplifier (SS) - jonbee 23:33:29 01/12/02 ( 21)