Bel Canto Black EX DAC / Control Preamplifier
The Bel Canto Black EX DAC / Control Preamplifier is a high-performance digital and analogue control centre, combining advanced DAC technology with extensive source compatibility and system control. Designed to manage all inputs and deliver exceptional musical detail, it forms the heart of a modern high-end audio system.
Housed in a custom plated high-grade aluminium chassis, the EX DAC integrates streaming, digital decoding, analogue inputs, and a programmable phono stage into a single, highly refined component. It supports a wide range of formats including MQA, Roon, DSD, and high-resolution PCM.
At its core is Bel Canto’s AMiP (Asynchronous Multi-Input Processor) platform, a powerful multi-processor architecture that manages all signal inputs and system functions with precision and efficiency.
Key Features:
• High-end DAC and control preamplifier
• AMiP (Asynchronous Multi-Input Processor) platform
• Supports MQA, Roon, DSD, and high-resolution PCM
• Integrated MM/MC programmable phono stage
• Dual ultra-low phase noise master clocks
• HDR-II DAC core with high dynamic range
• 32-bit digital volume control
• Headphone and subwoofer outputs with bass management
• Solid high-grade aluminium chassis
• Designed for complete system control and flexibility
AMiP Platform:
• 6-processor architecture for input and system management
• 2 × 32-bit XMOS processors
• 2 × 32-bit ARM processors
• 2 × dedicated audio processors
• Handles Ethernet (Roon Ready, DLNA), USB-A, USB2 (24/384), SPDIF/AES/TOS inputs
• Supports analogue line and phono inputs via 24/192 ADC
• Custom Time Optimized Filter with integer up-sampling
• DSD and MQA processing
HDR-II DAC Technology:
• Bel Canto High Dynamic Resolution-II DAC core
• Up to 132 dB dynamic range
• Low noise, distortion, and jitter sensitivity
• Multi-bit and delta-sigma hybrid architecture
• Ultra-low phase noise master clock implementation
• Asynchronous interface for jitter-free performance
• 32-bit volume control for transparent signal attenuation
Technical Highlights:
• Dual ultra-low phase noise master clocks for precise timing
• 64-bit DSP for advanced signal processing
• Pure Class A differential analogue output stage
• SSHA (Single Stage High-Current Amplifier) module for low distortion
• High current output with excellent dynamic resolution
• Secondary DAC (112 dB) for headphone and subwoofer outputs
• Bass management with adjustable crossover (40–120 Hz)
• Subwoofer gain trim ±6 dB
Phono Stage:
• Dual-stage architecture with low-noise RIAA input stage
• Fixed 40 dB gain with variable analogue gain stage
• Adjustable input loading for MM and MC cartridges
• Optimised for low noise and accurate RIAA response
Connectivity:
• Network (UPnP Ethernet, Roon Ready)
• USB-A host input
• USB2 (up to 24/384)
• SPDIF / AES / TOS digital inputs
• 2 × analogue line inputs
• Phono input (MM/MC)
• Headphone output
• Subwoofer output with bass management
What’s Included:
• Bel Canto Black EX DAC / Control Preamplifier
• Remote control
• Documentation
Note:
Designed as a central control hub for high-end systems, combining digital processing, analogue integration, and precision volume control in one unit.
This product is available for in-store demonstration. Visit the Spinning Room showroom in Leeds to experience the Black EX DAC in person.
