Black EX DAC

The Black EX DAC/Control Preamplifier uses a custom-plated, high-grade aluminium chassis containing a high-level DAC, broad source compatibility and an internal programmable phono stage. It supports MQA, Roon and DSD, while managing input selection, volume and source formats with detailed, musical reproduction from every source.

The EX DAC/Control Preamplifier is built around the High Dynamic Resolution HDR-II core and high-speed Asynchronous Multi-Input Processor (AMiP) platform. It supports music streaming through Ethernet and USB, alongside digital inputs, line-level inputs, a subwoofer output and a software-controlled internal MM/MC analogue phono stage.

The EX DAC manages audio source and control functions through its 32-bit volume and multi-processor system. Functions can be operated by pressing and rotating the front-panel control dial, using the custom IR remote control, or through an iPhone or iPad with the custom iOS app. The fully programmable display shows system status, source and volume.

All source inputs are asynchronously re-clocked into the fully balanced advanced-segment DAC, which measures below 0.001% distortion and offers 126dB of dynamic range. Bel Canto’s custom ULN master clock circuitry removes the source clock, reducing jitter and distortion while preserving the audio signal from each source.

Asynchronous Ethernet provides access to streaming services and music stored in a personal library. Bel Canto’s proprietary asynchronous Ethernet and USB-A inputs support high-resolution files up to 24bits at 192ks/s, MQA and DSD64. Sources can include subscription streaming services, a NAS drive or a multi-terabyte independent drive connected to USB-A, with server functions and wireless iOS control through the SEEK control app.

Asynchronous digital SPDIF AES, RCA and Toslink inputs operate at 24/192Ks.

Asynchronous USB2.0 Audio supports PCM sources up to 24/348, MQA and DSD 128 through DoP. Windows-based computers require the custom driver. USB2.0 operates natively with OSX.

MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) is a British technology designed to deliver the sound of the original master recording. The master MQA file is authenticated and compact enough to stream or download. Visit mqa.co.uk for more information. The MQA logo is a trade mark of MQA Limited. © MQA Limited 2017

RS232 supports integration with sophisticated whole-house control systems.

The MM/MC phono section is a low-noise, low-distortion circuit with programmable settings for a wide range of cartridges. It supports high-output MM cartridges from 2.5mV to 5mV and low-output MC cartridges from 0.25mV to 0.5mV.

The line-level analogue input can also be programmed to gain-match analogue sources. The line output can be connected to a powered subwoofer.