Price Paid:  $1650.00 from dealer demo

Summary:
I have had the Bel Canto eVo2i Gen II (that's a mouthful) for a couple of years now, after a lengthy auditioning process that included integrateds from a number of similarly priced manufacturers. The Bel Canto put a stop to all that auditioning.

The previous reviewers have done a good job describing the sound, so I will just chime in to say that soundwise, the Bel Canto offers everything I want. Clear, effortless sound at every volume level (many amps don't seem to open up at lower volume), throughout the frequency range, without a hint of harshness but with all the detail. Wide, expansive, lifelike soundstage. Live recordings are a joy.

Ergonomically, the Bel Canto is very easy to use. The volume control is fairly idiot proof, ramping in or out as inputs are changed. And you can set the initial volume level for each source each time you switch inputs.

Strengths:
Excellent performance at all volumes and frequencies. Ergonomics/controls.

Weaknesses:
Could use one more input, and a phono stage would be nice.

Similar Products Used:
Integrateds from Perreaux, Plinius, top-line NAD, Denon, top-line Rotel separates

Price Paid:  $0.00 from used

Summary:
This integrated amp is rated 120 watts at 8 ohms 200 at 4 ohms.

The BelCanto has a complete variety of options and features. It has balanced inputs and 4 other inputs plus tape. A pre-out so you can hook up a sub or another amp. Very nice aluminum remote that allows you to switch from source to source with a push of a button. Also a nice readable interface that you can shut off or dim.
When turning on the amp it starts off in "soft" mode so that you can't blast too much power to your speakers. Many more options ..which make it that much more enjoyable.

I have been impressed with the sound since the moment I first listened to it. Full bodied, powerful, and enjoyable. Much better than any of the Integrateds I had tried before, ( listed below). The better the speakers and source the better it seems to sound. I have used many different cd players and speakers with it and each time I could easily evaluate each new component. Right now I am using an Arcam FMJ 36 cd player and Magnepan speakers. The soundstage is huge and the highs sweet and extended, very easy to pick out each individual instrument, and the BelCanto seems to just cruse along as if it were not even there.
Before the Magnepans I had some Meadowlark Herons.. which have full bass response which is deep and punchy, the BelCanto had no problem driving them to floor vibrating levels without even getting warm.

I highley recommend this integrated to anyone, never any operational issues, full extended freq. response, powerful, never etched or grainy, lively and solid.

Strengths:
Solid performer top to bottom with plenty of features, top notch build.

Weaknesses:
Really can't think of any

Similar Products Used:
Cambridge Audio 640c , Portal Audio Panache, Arcam A 85, Musical Fidelity A3.2, Unison Research Unico,Naim Nait 5i, Ai Tube amp 60 watts.

Price Paid:  $2500.00

Summary:
Noticed no one has done a review on this wonderful integrated so thought I'd throw in my 2 cents.

120 watts at 8 ohms/ 200 at 4 ohms
5 inputs including balanced
Pre-out jack for sub or conecting another amp
Heavy duty solid aluminum remote
5 way heavy duty binding posts for speaker hook up
Balance control / mute
Display on/off and display input configuration
37 lbs.
standby mode

I bought the 2i gen II ( hereafter refered to as the 2i ) after reading many of the great reviews and have not been dissapointed! The 2i is powerful enough to drive just about any loudspeaker with ease. When I put it into my system I immediatly noticed improvements in deep bass response being full and powerfull. Also the soundstage widened and the music had depth and body to it that I had not previously noticed before.The 2i is smooth and easy to listen to yet has a livley character that draws you into the music.
As I have improved on CD player and speakers the 2i responded showing me it's seemingly limitless power and sound quality.
I would recommend the 2i highly to anyone who is looking for an integrated with excellent sound along with power and versatillity.

Strengths:
Build quality. Multi function remote, powerful, livley full bodied yet smooth sound.

Similar Products Used:
Arcam A85
Portall Panache