Bel Canto e.One Stream

Streamer - This streamer eschews features and focuses on the music

KEY FEATURES

Tidal

MQA

Dimensions (hwd) 8.8 x 21.6 x 31.8cm

It’s natural to strive towards getting the most for your money, but there is a difference between something being limited and being properly focused on a specific task. So if you’re put off by the Bel Canto e.One Stream due to its price tag not representing the expected array of features, bear in mind that any added extras would actually divert attention from its primary task, that of delivering the best sound possible for the price.

Bel Canto describes its streamer as an interface between your network and audio system, which means it can bolt on to your amp and offer connection to a NAS device, as well as hi-res streaming services such as Qobuz and Tidal. A range of digital outputs means you can bypass its on-board DAC and upgrade in time with an outboard number-cruncher.

In terms of file compatibility, the Stream is well equipped, supporting files up to 24-bit/192kHz, as well as MQA and DSD, and is also a Roon end point.

Functional display

There isn’t much hugely inspiring about the physical design, but it is functional and shouldn’t clash with anything in the room. The display is large enough to show the information you need, including sample rate and codec, and you can also configure it to scroll track information or auto turn off after a while.