Bel Canto E1X DC1 Streaming Pre Amplifier

Bel Canto E1X DC1 Streaming Pre Amplifier

The Bel Canto E1X DC1 Streaming Pre Amplifier is available for demonstration in our Hull store by request.

The Bel Canto E1X DC1 Streaming Pre Amplifier is a high-end DAC control preamplifier that integrates reference-grade digital-to-analogue conversion, high-resolution music streaming, and a sophisticated MM/MC phono stage into a single, elegantly engineered component. Built on Bel Canto’s Advanced Integrated Platform (AIP), derived from the acclaimed BLACK system architecture, the E1X DC1 is designed for listeners who want exceptional sound quality without the complexity of multiple separate components.

By unifying analogue and digital processing within one meticulously optimised chassis, the E1X DC1 delivers clarity, dynamic authority, and musical realism from every source, whether streaming, vinyl, or traditional digital playback.

AIP Architecture Inspired by the BLACK System

The E1X DC1 is founded on Bel Canto’s Advanced Integrated Platform, a design philosophy that treats analogue and digital circuitry as one coherent system rather than isolated stages. Drawing directly from the BLACK system architecture, AIP ensures that each input follows a carefully optimised signal path designed to reduce noise, minimise interference, and preserve timing accuracy.

HDR-II DAC Core: Exceptional Dynamic Range & Musicality

At the heart of the Bel Canto E1X DC1 lies the proprietary HDR-II (High Dynamic Resolution II) DAC Core, the result of more than 20 years of DAC development. HDR-II delivers outstanding dynamic range and ultra-low distortion, allowing subtle musical detail and large-scale dynamics to be reproduced with equal confidence and realism.

AMiP Control Platform & Precision Processing

The AMiP (Asynchronous Multi-Input Platform) is a powerful multi-processor control engine that manages all digital, analogue, and streaming inputs within the E1X DC1. Ethernet streaming with Roon Ready and DLNA support, USB inputs, legacy digital connections, and analogue line-level and phono inputs are all handled with consistent sonic performance.

High-Resolution Streaming Without Compromise

As a true streaming pre amplifier, the Bel Canto E1X DC1 is engineered to deliver uncompromised sound quality from modern network-based sources. Ethernet connectivity supports high-resolution playback while maintaining the same timing accuracy and signal purity expected from reference-grade separates.

Software-Controlled MM/MC Phono Stage

Vinyl playback is handled by a refined dual-stage analogue phono architecture featuring an ultra-low-noise RIAA amplification stage followed by digitally controlled analogue gain. This allows precise matching for both MM and MC cartridges while preserving tonal accuracy and musical integrity.

Class-Leading DSP & System Optimisation

A dedicated 64-bit DSP engine provides advanced tonal shaping without introducing the noise or distortion associated with analogue tone controls. Features such as Tilt EQ, bass adjustment, and configurable crossover filters allow subtle system optimisation while preserving the original character of the recording.

Headphone & Subwoofer Outputs

A dedicated DAC and high-current output stage drive the headphone output, delivering excellent control, detail, and dynamic range with low-impedance headphones. The subwoofer output offers adjustable crossover frequencies and gain trim, enabling seamless low-frequency integration within high-performance systems.

Bel Canto E1X DC1 Streaming Pre Amplifier Specification:

• Performance
  • Dynamic Range: 126dB, A-weighted
  • THD+N: <0.001% (1W, 1kHz, 4 ohms)
  • IMD (CCIF): <0.001% (1W, 18.5:19.5kHz, 1:1, 4 ohms)
• Main Outputs
  • Balanced XLR Output: 5.5Vrms, 100 ohms impedance
  • RCA Output: 2.75Vrms, 100 ohms impedance
  • Minimum Load: 600 ohms
• Maximum Data Input Rates
  • 24-bit / 384kHz, MQA, DSD64/128 via 10/100 Ethernet
  • 24-bit / 192kHz and DSD64 (DoP) via USB2 Audio
  • 24-bit / 192kHz via AES, SPDIF, TOSLINK
• MM/MC Phono Input
  • Input Sensitivity: MM 2.5–5mV; MC 0.25–0.5mV
  • Input Load: MM 47kΩ; MC 50 / 100 / 500 / 1000Ω
  • RIAA Accuracy: ±0.25dB (50Hz–15kHz)
  • THD+N: <0.01% (1kHz, A-weighted)
  • SNR: >70dB (A-weighted)
• Low Level Outputs
  • Line Level Analogue Output: 4.5Vrms with Bass Management
  • Headphone Output: 4.5Vrms maximum, 32Ω minimum load
• Line Inputs
  • Maximum Input: 2.2Vrms (RCA)
  • Input Impedance: 10kΩ (RCA)
  • THD+N: 0.003% (1kHz)
  • Dynamic Range: 110dB, A-weighted (20Hz–20kHz)
• General
  • Power Usage (On): 20W
  • Power Usage (Off): 0W
  • Operating Voltages: 100–120VAC, 220–240VAC, 50/60Hz
  • Dimensions: 17.75 × 15.75 × 3.25 in (451 × 400 × 83mm)
  • Weight: 14 lbs (6.4kg)