Does anyone use a Bel Canto Pre2 P ?

It's a very nice sounding preamp with some very useful features. It's clean/lean/clear sounding as opposed to warm/harmonically rich.

I recommend that you talk to Wally at Underwood. He has several to recommend and I have talked with him about them. He can sell you Bel Canto as well as Monolithic and others. He has been great to deal with.

Thanks, I have spoken with him. He can set me up with a very good deal on the Pre2P and a pair of Ref1000's, but I'm wondering if that combo will be too "accurate", that is dry and clinical. Perhaps if so, it could be dialed out with cable selection?? My head is swirling enuf choosing electronics without also thinking about all the cable possibilities!

When I listen to the Bel Cantos, I simply hear "neutral" and "accurate". They will play whatever is fed to them, without coloration. I can hear the difference between LP, solid state CDP, and tube output CDP. The cables will be less important than the source. Wally has a good handle on how these electronics piece together. Although I believe cables make a difference, it is subtle and it is best to make the rest of the system work together and not rely on cables to change the sound. That is a "merry-go-round". So far, his advice to me has been right on. I don't believe he would want you to end up with a system that doesn't work together. And, if you are unhappy, he will take them back.

Yes and it is dead quiet very neutral. Highly recommended.