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Townshend Audio Allegri Reference Mk2 Auto Transformer Preamplifier
Townshend Audio Allegri Reference Mk2 Auto Transformer Preamplifier
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This is our demonstration preamplifier upgraded to MK2 status. In our view one of the best preamplifiers available. It has been extremely well cared for and in as new condition. New price 12k
Demonstration welcome, we are located in Cheadle Hulme Cheshire. Just call if you would like to discuss.
https://townshendaudio.com/so-how-about-a-non-professional-review-allegri-reference/
Auto-Transformer Preamplifiers
This cutting-edge, microprocessor-controlled passive autotransformer volume control (AVC) preamplifier redefines clarity with its minimalist design, wired with Townshend’s exclusive Fractal™ cable, and enhanced by advanced Seismic Isolation technology. Featuring full remote control and a crystal-clear LED display, the Allegri Reference delivers precision and elegance, making it the ultimate centerpiece for any high-end audio system. By connecting your source directly to the power amp with no added circuitry, it ensures an uncolored, noise-free, and transparent listening experience—stripping away distractions to reveal the pure, unaltered beauty of your music in one simple, elegant box.
The Pinnacle of Passive Preamplification
Introducing the Townshend Audio Allegri Reference, a masterpiece of audio engineering designed for the discerning home hi-fi enthusiast and professional audiophile.
Noise-Free
The heart of our design is the Allegri autotransformer volume control and source switch – a minimalist solution that connects your source directly to the power amp with no added circuitry, ensuring an uncolored, noise-free, and truly transparent listening experience. By stripping away unnecessary components, the Allegri delivers pure, unaltered sound, offering the ultimate expression of clarity and musicality in one simple, elegant box.
No Active components
The Allegri Reference is a passive preamplifier, meaning it does not use active components like transistors or op-amps to amplify the signal. Instead, it operates entirely without a power supply. This results in zero distortion, as no active amplification stages can introduce noise, distortion, or interference. – Most other solid-state or tube-based preamplifiers use active circuits that can add colouration to the sound.
Fine Ajustment at all volume levels
There are 129 individual 0.5dB steps, which give very fine volume adjustment at all listening levels. This incredibly wide range can accommodate very high source levels and very high sensitivity power amplifiers enabling refined volume control at very low levels, which is ideal for late-night listening. This is a ‘first’ for an AVC. In use, the control is seamless with no discernible steps. The Allegri Reference is the Holy Grail of audio preamplifiers.
Townshend's Fractal Wire
This purely passive autotransformer design is wired throughout with Townshend Audio’s unique Fractal™ wire, which was developed over many years of critical listening, by the most discerning audiophiles and is audibly superior to plain copper, silver and even DCT copper wire. The result is the most accurate, uncoloured and open-sounding preamplifier possible, offering astonishing transparency and resolution of the finest details.
To realise the full potential of the Allegri Reference, it is most important to use Townshend Audio F1 Fractal™ interconnects for both input and output, as just one metre of inferior interconnect can noticeably degrade the sound
Reed Relays
The signal path is as simple as possible, with just four of the 102 ultra-reliable reed relays in the signal path at any one time. Reed relays are chosen for the tap switching as they are superior to all other switches. They have a life in excess of 30,000,000 operations, which is far longer than regular rotary switches, which tend to wear through the thin contact plating after a few thousand operations. Further, the relay contacts are in a vacuum, so there is no oxidation – and there is a slight rubbing action when the reeds close, which ensures perfect contact for audio. All internal connections are hard-wired with Fractal™ wire and there are no connectors in the signal path.
Remote Control
The Allegri Reference remote control allows you to adjust volume, mute, select from five inputs, and set a pre-programmed volume offset. You can also toggle display blanking. Pressing the volume button up or down changes the level by 0.5 dB per step. Holding the button starts with half-second intervals, then speeds up, covering the full 1-to-129 range in 10 seconds for quick, intuitive adjustments.
Each input can be pre-set with a volume level to balance varying source outputs, with a range of ±30 steps (±15 dB). Inputs can also be set to maximum fixed volume (0 dB) for home cinema bypass, letting the AV receiver control volume while the Allegri Reference seamlessly connects to the front left and right power amplifiers. The mute function remains active and doubles as a standby control.
The Apple-style remote is highly sensitive, requiring no direct aim at the unit. A magnetic attachment under the front of the unit provides convenient storage.
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