TOWNSHEND ALLEGRI REFERENCE MKII

The Townshend Allegri Reference Mk2 is a high-quality passive preamplifier, designed to offer maximum transparency and dynamics. It uses a transformer volume control (AVC – Autoformer Volume Control), eliminating the problems of traditional potentiometers and ensuring a pure and uncoloured sound. Thanks to its passive design, it does not introduce noise or distortion, preserving every detail of the recording. The result is a natural, airy and incredibly realistic sound, with exceptional instrument separation and an impressive dynamic range. Perfect for those looking for maximum sonic fidelity in their hi-fi system.

The Townshend Allegri Reference Mk2 is one of those rare preamplifiers that almost seem to "disappear" from the audio system, allowing the music to flow with incredible naturalness. It is a passive preamplifier with transformer volume control (AVC – Autoformer Volume Control), an approach that allows you to adjust the level without introducing the typical problems of resistive potentiometers, such as loss of detail or variations in impedance.

With no active circuits or power supply, the preamp does not introduce background noise or colorations: the sound that comes out is exactly that of the source, with the only influence of the power amp and speakers. If the rest of the chain is of good quality, the Allegri Reference Mk2 can really take your system to the next level.

One of the most impressive aspects is the dynamic range: the most delicate passages are rendered with extreme finesse, while the most energetic moments maintain an incredible impact, without compression or harshness. Voices are sculpted in the air, with a three-dimensional presence that gives the sensation of having the singer right in front of you.

In a well-balanced system, the Allegri Reference Mk2 lets you perceive every nuance of the recording, bringing out details that perhaps you had never noticed before. The separation of the instruments is excellent, with a wide and deep soundstage, while the bass is fast and articulated, without artificial bloating.

The Allegri Reference Mk2 is therefore a preamp built with a purist philosophy, without compromising on signal quality and with impeccable construction. Perfect for high-end hi-fi systems where maximum transparency and sound fidelity are sought.

The Townshend Allegri Reference Mk2 is built with great attention to detail, using high-level materials and technical solutions to ensure maximum sonic transparency.

Structure and materials
Rigid and damped chassis: made of a solid metal, designed to minimize vibrations and interference.

Isolation feet: probably inspired by the Townshend Seismic damping technology, to minimize the influence of external vibrations.

High-quality RCA connectors: gold-plated, to ensure optimal signal transmission and a stable connection.

Internal circuitry
Transformer volume control (AVC - Autoformer Volume Control): instead of a classic resistive potentiometer, it uses extremely precisely wound transformers to adjust the level without degrading the signal. This avoids the typical loss of detail and dynamics of traditional preamplifiers.

No Power Supply: As a passive preamp, there is no internal power supply, completely eliminating noise and electrical interference.

Wiring and Component Selection: Townshend is renowned for its quality internal construction, with meticulous attention to the signal path to minimise any possible loss or colouration.

Features and Connectivity
RCA Inputs and Outputs: Multiple connections available for integration with multiple sources and amplifiers.

Input Selector: Easily switch between different audio sources.

Ultra-Precise Volume Control: Smooth adjustment in finely calibrated increments for perfect sound balance.

Specifications:
Frequency Response at -10dB: 10Hz, -0.03dB, 20kHz, +0.1dB.
Maximum Signal Level: 4V RMS 8Hz; 10V RMS 20Hz and above.
Maximum DC Offset: 5mV (for 8Hz undistorted).
Distortion: 2 V, 1 kHz, -113 dB, 0.0002%.
10 V, 1 kHz, -96 dB, 0.0014%; 2 V, 20 kHz, -96 dB, 0.003%; 2 V, 10 Hz, -86 dB, 0.005%; 2 V, 20 Hz, -115 dB, 0.00014%.(2nd and 3rd harmonics only).
Intermodulation distortion: 19/20 kHz, 2 V. -86 dB, 0.005%.
Channel separation: 20 Hz-20 kHz: Better than 110 dB.
Impedance: At 0 dB, the input impedance is 20 kohms. At -10 dB (normal listening) the input impedance is 200 kohms, for a power amplifier load with 20 kohms input impedance.
Inputs: Five pairs of RCA phono sockets (gold-plated). Two pairs of XLRs in parallel with inputs 1 and 2. One 3.5 mm stereo jack on the front panel, in parallel with input 5.
Outputs: Two pairs of RCA phono sockets (gold-plated)
Dimensions:    Width 234mm (5.3in), Height 100mm (4in), Depth 380mm (15in).
Weight:    9kg (20lb).
Power supply: 90-260V, AC 50-60Hz. Universal.