RMAF 2018: Bel Canto

We’re looking at the new e.One Stream from Bel Canto ($1,590), a Roon-Ready, UPnP/DLNA controller that can stream from Tidal, Qobuz, Vtuner and network-attached music (up to 24/192).  Digital out include AES, Toslink, and S/PDIF while Ethernet and USB-A (for music storage devices) comprise the inputs. Single-ended RCAs deliver the music to your hifi.

The company also released its own iOS controller app “Bel Canto Seek” for those not wanting to go the Roon route.

The in-room system was all Black: Bel Canto Black EX DAC/Control Preamp ($13,990), Black EX Dual Mono Amplifier ($11,900), and the Tidal Piano Diacera G2 Loudpseakers ($39,000/pair) in. . . black, while AudioQuest took care of the cabling.

I ran into AudioQuest’s Stephen Mejias on the way into the Bel Canto room, he was heading out, and as a parting gift he asked Mike McCormick, president of Bel Canto Design, to cue up a track from Joep Beving’s lovely Conatus for my listening pleasure. I had to close my eyes to take in this beautiful, intimate, and mysterious music and for just a moment I forgot I was in a hotel room in Denver. I love when that happens, too.