Black EX DAC/Control Preamp
The Black EX DAC/Control Preamplifier is designed in a custom plated high-grade aluminum chassis that contains the highest-level DAC performance and source compatibility, including MQA, Roon, DSD, and an internal programmable phono stage. The EX DAC controls input selection, volume control, and manages all source formats with the highest quality detail and musicality from any source ensuring years of musical enjoyment.
Our precision filter and equalizer functions use the power of a custom 64bit DSP engine embedded into the internal signal path. Bel Canto’s approach removes the possibility of any degradation due to noise, distortion or response errors introduced by traditional analog filters. In other words, our approach permits subtle equalization and tonal control without compromising the sonic integrity of the original signal.
The Tilt function allows you to trim High frequency and simultaneously boost low frequency equally (or the opposite) to dial in the tonal balance you desire. This is done by holding the axis point of 775Hz and adjusting in a see saw fashion the upper and lower frequencies. This is ideal for eliminating the minor flaws in recordings or in sonically challenged spaces.
Gordon Holt is on record as saying: “it’s far better able than most to correct for many of the worst and most commonly-encountered sonic flaws in recordings.”
The bass EQ gives you great control over low frequency energy below 200 Hz helping you to achieve the tonal balance you desire in room and with speaker placement. It operates over a +/-3dB range with 0.6dB increments (–5, Off, +5) providing subtle optimization of bass energy.
The High Pass circuitry, inserts a high-pass filter into the main speaker output path optimizing the performance of your speakers with the sub output. You can also independently insert a low pass filter into the subwoofer output to help control sub levels. The filters are adjustable anywhere from 40Hz to 120Hz (in increments of 10Hz), depending on the low-frequency extension of your main speakers and the size of your subwoofer. The provision of these high-pass and low-pass filters is far-sighted, as it enables far superior integration of your main speakers with your subwoofer than would otherwise be possible.
The control menu also has a ‘maximum volume’ setting. This allows you to set the max volume at any level you prefer and ensures no one can inadvertently increase the volume using an App volume control or the remote and do damage to your speakers. The Max volume can be changed at any time and comes from the factory set at 85.
The Ethernet connection on the rear panel allows you to update your unit firmware to the current specification at any time the unit is connected to the internet. This can be checked through the menu by the user. If there is an update you will be given the choice to complete the upgrade ensuring that your unit is always up-to-date or decline the update and perform it at another time. If you choose to complete the update the unit will display the latest software Rev’s on the display and let you know when it is completed. The unit will reset itself (you do not have to power cycle the unit) and be ready to play after completion.
The line level analog input also can be programmed to gain match your analog sources and achieve the best performance from all analog sources. The line output can be connected to a powered subwoofer.
he front mounted headphone jack opens up high quality sound for your favorite headphones. Plug in your headphones and the EX DAC configures itself into a superb headphone amplifier with a high performance buffer stage that can drive down to 32 ohm. Control the output level using the main control, allowing you to select the headphone or main speaker output while leaving the headphones in place.
SEEK
Bel Canto SEEK is about musical discovery, without compromise. The SEEK Controller is a UPnP/DLNA free iOS** app that organizes playlists, favorite tracks, or stations from around the world, making them readily accessible all from your iOS tablet or phone. SEEK manages both content and volume levels of your Bel Canto component without having to leave your favorite listening position
Specifications
Maximum Data Input Rates
- 24bit Data to 192ks/s: AES, SPDIF, TOSLINK
- 24bit Data to 192ks/s, MQA, and DSD64: 10/100 Ethernet
- 24bits to 384ks/s, MQA, and DSD64/128 (DoP): USB2 Audio
Low Level Outputs
- Line Level Analog: 4.5Vrms with Bass Management
- Headphone: 4.5Vrms maximum, 32ohm minimum load
MM/MC Input
- Input Sensitivity: MM: 2.5mV to 5mV; MC: 0.25mV to 0.5mV
- Input Load: MM: 47K ohms; MC: 50, 100, 500, 1000
- RIAA Accuracy: +/- 0.25dB, 50Hz-15kHz
- THD+N: <0.01% 1kHz A-Weighted
- SNR: >70dB A-Weighted
Line Inputs
- Maximum Input: 2.2 Vrms RCA
- Input Impedance: 10k ohms RCA
- THD+N: 0.003%, 1kHz
- Dynamic Range: 110dB, A-weighted 20Hz-20kHz
Main Outputs
- Balanced XLR Output and Impedance: 5.5Vrms, 100 ohms
- RCA Output and Impedance: 2.75Vrms, 100 ohms
Performance
- Dynamic Range: 127dB A-weighted
- THD+N: <0.001% 1W, 1kHz, 4 ohms
- IMD (CCIF): <0.001%, 1W, 18.5:19.5kHz 1:1, 4 ohms
General
- Power Usage On: 20W
- Power Usage Off: 0W
- Internally Set Operating Voltages: 100-120VAC, 220-240VAC 50/60 Hz
- Dimensions: 17.75 W x 15.5 D x 3.5 H inches, 451 x 394 x 89mm
- Weight: 25lbs. (12 kg)
