BC Acoustique EX222
Stereo integrated amplifier delivering 2x70W RMS into 8 Ohms, fitted with an AptX Bluetooth receiver and a Pre-Out output for bi-amplification.
Description
The EX222 from BC Acoustique is a stereophonic integrated amplifier designed to faithfully reproduce music with an audiophile approach. It handles on its own the amplification needed to drive a pair of speakers, without additional electronics, and positions itself as the heart of a classic hi-fi system.
Its stated power output is 2x70W RMS into 8 Ohms, delivered by a power supply built around two 200VA toroidal transformers. This power supply architecture aims to provide a sufficient current reserve to drive demanding speakers, even at high volume levels, while limiting dynamic compression during the most intense passages.
The unit incorporates a Bluetooth receiver with AptX codec, allowing music to be streamed from a smartphone or tablet with a transmission quality superior to standard Bluetooth. The AptX codec offers an average compression ratio of 4:1, a dynamic range of 92 dB, a 16-bit resolution and a frequency response of 20 Hz to 22 kHz, characteristics close to those of CD-Audio. MP3 or AAC files with a bitrate below 350 Kbits/sec are transmitted without transcoding or further degradation.
In terms of connectivity, the EX222 offers 6 audio inputs, including a digital optical and/or coaxial input allowing it to be connected directly to a recent television. A Pre-Out output is also available, opening up the possibility of bi-amplification by pairing the unit with an external power amplifier.
This amplifier is aimed at hi-fi enthusiasts wanting versatile electronics, capable of serving as a living room hub connected to a television while retaining analogue inputs for a dedicated source such as a turntable or CD player. The presence of AptX Bluetooth also makes it a relevant choice for those wishing to easily listen to tracks from a smartphone without sacrificing sound quality.
Technical specifications
| Power | 2x70W RMS into 8 Ohms |
| Power supply | 2 200VA toroidal transformers |
| Connectivity | 6 audio inputs including 1 digital (optical and/or coaxial), Pre-Out output |
| Bluetooth | AptX Bluetooth receiver |
| Dynamic range (AptX Bluetooth) | 92 dB |
| Resolution (AptX Bluetooth) | 16 bits |
| Frequency response (AptX Bluetooth) | 20 Hz - 22 kHz |
What to check before buying used
Check that the AptX Bluetooth receiver works properly and that there are no dropouts or interference noise in the wireless connection. Test each input, particularly the optical/coaxial digital input, as well as the Pre-Out output. Listen across the full volume range for a crackling potentiometer or an unbalanced channel, and watch for any hum that could indicate a tired toroidal transformer.
Looking for this reference: EX 222 ?
Tell us what you are looking for: our merchants are notified, and one of them may have it in stock.