We own four Bel Canto amps: (2) REF1000s, an S300 and an eVo4. I have had an opportunity to compare the monoblock REF1000s against the bridged eVo4 using an Integra DTC-9.4 and Revel Performa F-50s. The eVo4 bridged is an incredible amp in its own right. I have played it both biamped and biwired, and in my opinion, bridged and biwired sounds better.
The difference between the eVo4 bridged (tripath) and the REF1000s (ICEpower) was discernable. A good description of the differences between the tripath and the ICEpower amps can be found at www.6moons.com/audioreviews/h2o/m250_3.html
It would be easy to exaggerate the differences between these two amps in an effort to rationalize the cost difference, an attractive temptation. The differences are subtle yet noticeable, at some location way up the continuum of diminishing returns making the price differential between a slightly used eVo4 and a new set of REF1000s debatable. I can tell you this: I am completely satisfied with the REF1000s; the upgrade bug has been squashed. Everyone bitten by the bug will tell you, it is a lot cheaper to buy something that will completely satisfy you as a starting rather than ending point.
The difference between the eVo4 bridged (tripath) and the REF1000s (ICEpower) was discernable. A good description of the differences between the tripath and the ICEpower amps can be found at www.6moons.com/audioreviews/h2o/m250_3.html
It would be easy to exaggerate the differences between these two amps in an effort to rationalize the cost difference, an attractive temptation. The differences are subtle yet noticeable, at some location way up the continuum of diminishing returns making the price differential between a slightly used eVo4 and a new set of REF1000s debatable. I can tell you this: I am completely satisfied with the REF1000s; the upgrade bug has been squashed. Everyone bitten by the bug will tell you, it is a lot cheaper to buy something that will completely satisfy you as a starting rather than ending point.