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Belles Virtuoso power amp - My initial experience

On a previous post I mentioned that I was buying a Belles virtuoso power amp/ Must be one of the first ones since they are not advertised on their website yet. However, I was able to buy one through John Rutan  from Audio Connection. Belles states a break in period of 200hrs. I have not reached that level yet. Im more close to 50. I was asked to report my experience with the amp. 

First, this is an upgrade from my Rogue Cronus Magnum 90 wpc integrated which I believe is a great intro level equipment. I have not heard the Belles Aria nor I have done any A/B comparison with the Belles.

Second, so far the excitement in improved SQ is there. The extra power allows for more detail, sounds that were not audible before, are there. Cymbals are heard, voices sound with energy and not tired.Whispers are heard. Percussion instruments are noticeable with clarity. Overall all instruments sound lively and true. I enjoy being music analytical and this amp allows me to enjoy that. Bad recordings will be noticeable though.  

Third, now to the rest of my equipment. I also acquired for my preamp an Audible Illusions M3A factory refurbished. I liked this unit bc of its successful history of being one of the best tube preamps right there with CJ and AR. I also loved the idea of a separate power supply. I used to owned Counterpoints. I like the sound of tubes. The M3A provides for an amazing sound stage. My only complain is their volume control. The increase in dbs per clicks can be too much at time. My Vandersteens 2 CE sig have never sound this good! I never thought those speakers could produce that good bass quality. Obviously is the combination of both equipments, but could not do it without the amp driving power. Even at lower volumes, you can still get definition. Kimber cables 12t remained as my speaker cable. I used PBJ cables but will be replaced by Audioquest Red Rivers. Maybe down the futures some Vandis Treo CTs. they are pricey but angelicals.

Without a A/B comparison is a bit hard to further explain the characteristics of the Belles. With a tag price of almost 6k, it is not entry level but I have to agree it is a fine piece of equipment and once become available , should be seriously considered with others in its class like Brystons,  McCormacks in said price range. Those that owned Belles electronics seems to cherish them as a well designed equipment and will salivate to listen to it.  Like I said, I like the sound of tubes. This combination provides for that. I'm not missing any at all.

Will it improve with time, only time will tell. I hope so. 
lobinero

Showing 4 responses by joey54

joey54
435 posts
 
I spent a few hours listening to the new Belles Aria Signature Integrated amp at the Audio Connection today. It betters the standard Aria in every way, as it should for $4400. The rest of the system was Vandersteen Treo CT's, Clearaudio Concept with Satisfy arm and Hana EH cartridge, Ayre Codex, Innuos Zen Mini and all Audioquest cabling. I think John said 120 watts per channel with a phono stage that supports both MM and MC cartridges. 3 Single ended and 1 balanced input and output. This unit has less than 24 hours on it. 

We listened to vinyl mostly and the phono stage in the amplifier is much better than the one in the standard Aria. The midrange and sound staging were close to what I hear with my Aesthetix Mimas. The bass is also outstanding. Music flowed from the speakers in a relaxed, effortless manner without sounding polite or laid-back. Dynamics were excellent. I can't imagine how much better it will sound once it's broken in. 

At this price point I think it will be hard to beat. I understand that the release of the  Virtuoso Integrated is not that much farther out.
joey54
435 posts
 
Have you heard the Belles Preamp? I spent a few hours listening to the Virtuoso Preamp prototype with your amp and the new Vandersteen 2CE Signature III's at Audio Connection. The combination really made those speakers sing. I don't think you will miss the tubes with this combination. Good Luck!
joey54
435 posts
 
I think the preamp will be called the Aria Signature.
joey54
435 posts
 
You should touch base with JohnnyR on pricing.
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