Belles preamplifiers -- experiences at different levels?


I'm investigating preamplifiers by Belles. There has been some helpful discussion about this on the forum, but I'm curious to hear from anyone who has tried more than one Belles preamp. The current one is the Aria preamp and there is an older, more bespoke one, the LA-01.

I have not seen pictures of the internals on these guys, so those would be welcome, too.

 

 

 

hilde45

I have owned a VT-01 preamp and tried a few different tubes. It was OK, but nowhere near the resolution of my Benchmark HPA4. But then that's probably the tubes vs. solid state debate, and I don't wish to open that can of worms.

LA-01's are not often found any more. People who have them know what they have. If you see one don't hesitate.

I’ve just acquired a Belles Signature duel mono preamp (2025).  I’m using XLR connections with my AR DA 400 amplifier. It’s the most beautiful preamp I’ve ever heard.  All XLR from dac to amp.  It’s stunning. 

David Belles has made a lot of great gear over the years. I have a Belles 21A released in 2003. It's a wonderful sounding preamp. I've had it in storage for several years, but your post is encouraging me to bring it out and give it a listen.