I cant say enough good things about the Bel Canto REF1000 Mk.2 (A.K.A. REF1000M) monoblocks driving the challanging Vienna speakers. I recommend these monos very highly if you are seeking an extremely musical result with just a touch of warmth
They also deliver a great deal of resolution, imaging, and majestic staging. The monos were able to control the twing big 10 side-firing woofers of my full size Vienna Mahler V1.5 towers almost to perfection.
I had BC REF1000 Mk.2 with me for more than one year when I reviewed them for Positive Feedback:
http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue43/bel_canto_ref1000.htm
It is very important that if you obtain a used pair (usually approximately $3K), you get an MK.2 . It is both more resolving than the original iteration, and significantly sweeter in the treble . Yes, I did compare the two iterations side by side in my own system for a spell. Furthermore, the 2nd iteration has much higher input impedance, making compatibility with preamplifier a non issue. If you are in doubt with version, obtain serial numbers, and then check with the factory before purchasing.
Guido
I had BC REF1000 Mk.2 with me for more than one year when I reviewed them for Positive Feedback:
http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue43/bel_canto_ref1000.htm
It is very important that if you obtain a used pair (usually approximately $3K), you get an MK.2 . It is both more resolving than the original iteration, and significantly sweeter in the treble . Yes, I did compare the two iterations side by side in my own system for a spell. Furthermore, the 2nd iteration has much higher input impedance, making compatibility with preamplifier a non issue. If you are in doubt with version, obtain serial numbers, and then check with the factory before purchasing.
Guido