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Allegri reference

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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.

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Allegri Reference
Allegri Reference
HiFi Pig
HiFi Pig
The Allegri Reference is a revelation… offering transparency and musicality that makes you forget you’re listening through a system.” – HiFi Pig (2023)
The Absolute Sounds
The Absolute SoundsPaul Saydor
Coherence, timing, and drive are as good as any I’ve encountered, while transient response is outstanding (i.e., percussion instruments sound like the real thing
Hifi Critic
Hifi CriticMartin Colloms
“With lab results at, or very close to, the state of the art
The Ear
The EarJason Kennedy
Hear the Music, Not the Gear

Key Benefits You’ll Love

Zero Active Components

operates without transistors, op-amps, or a power supply, eliminating distortion, noise, and coloration for a pure signal path.

Optimal Impedance Matching

Its transformer-based design ensures stable impedance matching, preserving dynamics and drive

Wide Frequency Response:

The autotransformer delivers exceptional bandwidth with minimal distortion, surpassing resistive volume controls that limit performance.

Precision Control

129 half-decibel steps provide seamless volume adjustments, perfect for late-night listening or high-sensitivity systems

Custom transformers

Precision volume controls and a non-magnetic enclosure ensure audiophile-grade performance and durability.

Versatile Connectivity

Five stereo phono inputs, two balanced XLR inputs, a front-panel 3.5mm jack, and multiple outputs (phono and XLR) for seamless integration.

Fractal™ Wire Excellence

Wired with Townshend’s proprietary Fractal™ wire, developed for superior transparency, it outperforms standard copper or silver, unlocking astonishing detail and resolution.

Home Cinema Bypass

Set inputs to fixed maximum volume for seamless AV receiver integration, with active mute and standby functions.

The Townshend Difference

The Allegri Reference embodies Max Townshend’s lifelong mission to eliminate coloration and distortion from audio reproduction. A pioneer of innovations like the Rock turntable and cryogenically treated wire, Townshend has crafted the ultimate volume control with the Allegri Reference. Its reed relay-switched autotransformer, aerospace-grade components, and Fractal™ wire deliver a revolutionary listening experience. By bypassing traditional volume control pitfalls—noise, capacitance, and distortion—it ensures crystalline clarity and an immersive soundstage, making the equipment vanish and leaving only the music.

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Townshend Allegri Reference Pre-Amplifier

Allegri Reference: Specifications

Volume Setting Possibilities

EXPLORE INSIGHTS AND EXPERTISE

Townshend Audio Allegri Reference: A Preamplifier That Redefines Sonic Excellence

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BRISTOL HIFI SHOW 2025

HiFi+ top 100 products 20th Anniversary

Allegri+ Preamplifier Celebrated in Hi-Fi+ 20th Anniversary Top 100 Products

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frequently asked questions

The Townshend Allegri Reference differs from conventional preamplifier designs in several key ways, primarily due to its passive, autotransformer-based architecture. Below is a concise explanation suitable for an FAQ:
How does the Townshend Allegri Reference differ from conventional preamplifier designs?
Unlike conventional preamplifiers, which often use active components like transistors or tubes to amplify signals, the Townshend Allegri Reference is a fully passive preamplifier that employs an autotransformer volume control (AVC). This design avoids active circuitry, eliminating the need for a power supply and reducing noise, distortion, and coloration. Key differences include:
  • Passive Signal Path: The Allegri Reference uses autotransformers wound with Townshend’s proprietary Fractal™ wire to control volume, ensuring minimal signal degradation and exceptional transparency compared to active preamps, which can introduce grain (transistor) or warmth (tube) due to amplification.
     
     
  • Impedance Matching: Unlike resistive passive preamps, which can suffer from impedance mismatches leading to loss of dynamics, the Allegri’s autotransformer design maintains optimal impedance between source and amplifier, preserving full dynamics and frequency response.
     
     
  • No Power Supply: By not requiring power, the Allegri eliminates mains noise and power supply-related artifacts, delivering a cleaner signal than active preamps.
     
     
  • High Resolution and Transparency: The use of Fractal™ wire and a single-winding autotransformer (versus dual-winding conventional transformers) results in lower leakage inductance, better transient performance, and a flatter frequency response (8Hz–80kHz ±0.1dB), offering superior clarity and detail.
     
     
  • Advanced Volume Control: The Allegri Reference features 129 half-decibel steps controlled by microprocessor-driven relays, providing precise volume adjustments without audible steps, a significant improvement over the limited steps of conventional transformer volume controls (TVCs) or resistive pots.
     
     
  • Seismic Isolation: Built-in Seismic Isolation technology reduces vibration-induced distortion, a feature rarely found in conventional preamps, enhancing soundstage depth and detail.
     
    These attributes make the Allegri Reference a unique, high-fidelity solution that prioritizes signal purity, offering a transparent and uncolored listening experience that surpasses many active and passive preamplifier designs.
 
 
The Townshend Allegri Reference is designed to seamlessly integrate with a wide range of source components, ensuring optimal performance due to its passive, autotransformer-based architecture. Here’s how it handles different sources:
  • Universal Compatibility: As a fully passive preamplifier, the Allegri Reference has no active circuitry or power supply, making it compatible with virtually all analog source components, including CD players, DACs, phono preamps, tape decks, and tuners, without introducing noise or coloration.
  • Flexible Input Options: It offers six stereo RCA inputs, allowing connection of multiple source components simultaneously. Inputs are selected via a front-panel knob or remote control, with microprocessor-driven relays ensuring precise, noise-free switching.
  • Impedance Matching: The autotransformer volume control (AVC) maintains optimal impedance matching between source components and the power amplifier. This prevents the dynamic loss or frequency roll-off often seen in resistive passive preamps, ensuring consistent performance across sources with varying output impedances (typically 50Ω to 10kΩ).
  • High Input Sensitivity: The Allegri Reference can handle source output levels up to 10V RMS, accommodating high-output devices like modern DACs without distortion or overload, while its low-noise design preserves the integrity of low-level signals from sources like phono stages.
  • Transparent Signal Path: Using Townshend’s proprietary Fractal™ wire in its autotransformers, the Allegri delivers a clean, uncolored signal from any source, maintaining the unique sonic characteristics of each component. Its wide bandwidth (8Hz–80kHz ±0.1dB) ensures no loss of detail, from deep bass to high frequencies.
  • Cable Considerations: For optimal performance, Townshend recommends using F1 Fractal™ interconnects between source components and the Allegri, as inferior cables may introduce signal degradation, affecting sound quality.
  • Vibration Isolation: Built-in Seismic Isolation minimizes microphonic interference from external vibrations, benefiting sensitive sources like turntables or tube-based components by reducing distortion and enhancing clarity.
In summary, the Allegri Reference’s passive design, precise impedance handling, and high-quality components ensure it transparently and faithfully reproduces the output of any source component, delivering exceptional sound quality across diverse audio setups.
Yes, the Townshend Allegri Reference is fully compatible with both solid-state and tube amplifiers, thanks to its passive, autotransformer-based design. Here’s how it ensures compatibility:
  • Passive Architecture: As a fully passive preamplifier with no active circuitry or power supply, the Allegri Reference introduces no noise or distortion, making it an ideal match for the clean precision of solid-state amplifiers and the warm, dynamic characteristics of tube amplifiers.
  • Optimal Impedance Matching: The autotransformer volume control (AVC) dynamically adjusts impedance to suit the input requirements of both amplifier types. It maintains a low output impedance (typically <200Ω), ensuring compatibility with solid-state amps (often 10kΩ–100kΩ input impedance) and tube amps (which may have lower or more variable input impedances, e.g., 10kΩ–50kΩ).
  • Wide Signal Handling: The Allegri can handle input signals up to 10V RMS and provides up to +12dB gain (if needed), accommodating the signal levels required by both solid-state and tube amplifiers without clipping or loss of dynamics.
  • Transparent Signal Path: Using Fractal™ wire in its autotransformers, the Allegri delivers a pure, uncolored signal, preserving the sonic signature of solid-state amps (tight bass, detailed highs) or tube amps (rich midrange, harmonic warmth). Its wide bandwidth (8Hz–80kHz ±0.1dB) ensures no frequency loss.
  • Seismic Isolation: The built-in Seismic Isolation reduces vibration-induced distortion, benefiting tube amplifiers, which are more susceptible to microphonics, and enhancing soundstage clarity for both amp types.
  • Cable Recommendation: For best results, use F1 Fractal™ interconnects to connect the Allegri to either amplifier type, as inferior cables may compromise performance.
In summary, the Allegri Reference’s passive design, flexible impedance handling, and transparent signal path make it an excellent partner for both solid-state and tube amplifiers, delivering exceptional audio fidelity tailored to each amplifier’s unique characteristics.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The Townshend Allegri Reference’s passive, autotransformer-based design offers distinct advantages over active preamplifiers, making it a standout choice for audiophiles seeking purity and transparency. Key benefits include:
  • Uncompromised Signal Purity: As a passive preamplifier, the Allegri uses no active components (e.g., transistors or tubes) or power supply, eliminating noise, distortion, and coloration introduced by amplification circuits. This results in a transparent, uncolored sound that faithfully reproduces the source material.
  • No Power Supply Noise: By operating without a power supply, the Allegri avoids mains-related noise and electromagnetic interference, delivering a cleaner signal than active preamps, which can suffer from power supply artifacts.
  • Superior Transparency and Detail: The autotransformer volume control (AVC), wound with Townshend’s proprietary Fractal™ wire, ensures minimal signal degradation. Its wide bandwidth (8Hz–80kHz ±0.1dB) and low distortion preserve fine details, dynamics, and soundstage depth.
  • Optimal Impedance Matching: Unlike resistive passive preamps, which can cause impedance mismatches leading to loss of dynamics or frequency roll-off, the Allegri’s AVC dynamically adjusts impedance, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of sources and amplifiers while maintaining full musicality.
  • Precise Volume Control: The Allegri features 129 half-decibel steps controlled by microprocessor-driven relays, providing smooth, precise volume adjustments without audible stepping, outperforming traditional resistive potentiometers or limited-step transformer controls.
  • Vibration Isolation: Built-in Seismic Isolation minimizes microphonic distortion from external vibrations, enhancing clarity and soundstage accuracy, a benefit not typically found in active or other passive designs.
  • Energy Efficiency and Reliability: With no active components or power requirements, the Allegri is energy-efficient and inherently reliable, avoiding the maintenance or heat issues associated with tube or transistor-based preamps.
  • Cable Sensitivity: For optimal performance, Townshend recommends F1 Fractal™ interconnects, as the passive design’s transparency can reveal limitations in inferior cables.
In summary, the Allegri Reference’s passive design delivers unmatched signal purity, transparency, and compatibility, making it an ideal choice for high-fidelity systems where preserving the original recording’s integrity is paramount.
No, the Townshend Allegri Reference does not require a power supply. As a fully passive preamplifier, it operates without any active components or external power, relying solely on its autotransformer-based design to control volume and manage the audio signal. This eliminates mains-related noise and power supply artifacts, ensuring a clean, transparent signal path. The microprocessor-driven relay system for input selection and volume control is powered by an internal, long-life battery, which does not need regular replacement or external charging, making the Allegri Reference completely power-independent for its audio functions.
The Townshend Allegri Reference significantly enhances soundstage and imaging due to its passive, autotransformer-based design, delivering exceptional clarity and spatial accuracy. Here’s how it impacts these critical audio qualities:
  • Transparent Signal Path: As a fully passive preamplifier, the Allegri avoids active circuitry and power supply noise, minimizing distortion and coloration. Its Fractal™ wire autotransformers preserve the integrity of the audio signal, resulting in a highly detailed and natural soundstage with precise instrument placement and depth.
  • Wide Bandwidth and Low Distortion: With a frequency response of 8Hz–80kHz ±0.1dB, the Allegri ensures no loss of low-end weight or high-frequency detail, creating a spacious and open soundstage. Its low distortion maintains sharp imaging, allowing listeners to pinpoint instruments and vocals with exceptional accuracy.
  • Seismic Isolation: The built-in Seismic Isolation technology reduces vibration-induced microphonics, which can blur imaging and compress soundstage depth. By isolating the preamp from external vibrations, the Allegri enhances focus and three-dimensionality, making the soundstage feel more expansive and lifelike.
  • Optimal Impedance Matching: The autotransformer volume control (AVC) dynamically matches impedance between sources and amplifiers, preventing dynamic compression or frequency roll-off seen in resistive passive preamps. This ensures a robust, well-defined soundstage with consistent imaging across volume levels.
  • Precise Volume Control: With 129 half-decibel steps, the Allegri allows fine volume adjustments without audible stepping, preserving subtle spatial cues and maintaining imaging precision even at low volumes.
  • Cable Sensitivity: The Allegri’s transparency reveals the quality of connected cables. Using F1 Fractal™ interconnects is recommended to maximize soundstage width and imaging accuracy, as inferior cables may limit performance.
In summary, the Allegri Reference enhances soundstage and imaging by delivering a pure, uncolored signal with minimal distortion, vibration isolation, and precise control, resulting in a wide, deep, and accurately rendered soundstage with pinpoint imaging that brings recordings to life.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
For optimal performance with the Townshend Allegri Reference, Townshend F1 Fractal™ interconnects are strongly recommended. The Allegri’s passive, autotransformer-based design is highly transparent, revealing the quality of connected cables, and inferior cables can compromise its exceptional sound quality. Here’s why and what to consider:
  • F1 Fractal™ Interconnects: These cables are specifically designed to complement the Allegri Reference’s Fractal™ wire autotransformers. They feature advanced materials and construction to minimize signal degradation, ensuring maximum transparency, dynamics, and frequency response (8Hz–80kHz ±0.1dB). They preserve the Allegri’s detailed soundstage, precise imaging, and tonal accuracy.
  • Why Cable Quality Matters: The Allegri’s passive design lacks active circuitry to mask cable deficiencies, making it sensitive to cable performance. Low-quality cables may introduce noise, reduce clarity, or limit dynamics, undermining the preamp’s ability to deliver a pure, uncolored signal.
  • Cable Types: Use high-quality RCA interconnects for connecting source components (e.g., DACs, CD players, phono preamps) to the Allegri’s six stereo RCA inputs and for the output to your amplifier. Ensure cables have low capacitance and resistance to maintain signal integrity.
  • Compatibility: While F1 Fractal™ interconnects are ideal, other high-end RCA cables from reputable brands can ascended to the top of the search results can work, but they may not match the F1’s synergy with the Allegri’s design. Avoid budget or generic cables, as they can degrade soundstage, imaging, and clarity.
  • Practical Tips: Ensure cables are properly shielded to avoid interference, especially in environments with electromagnetic noise. Keep cable lengths as short as practical (typically 0.5m–1m) to minimize signal loss, though the Allegri’s impedance-matching design mitigates issues with longer runs better than resistive passive preamps.
In summary, Townshend F1 Fractal™ interconnects are the best choice to unlock the Allegri Reference’s full potential, ensuring a transparent, dynamic, and accurate audio experience. If using other cables, prioritize high-quality, low-capacitance RCA interconnects to maintain the preamp’s exceptional performance.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
No, the Townshend Allegri Reference does not support balanced connections. It is designed exclusively with single-ended RCA inputs and outputs. The preamplifier features six stereo RCA inputs for connecting source components and two stereo RCA outputs for connecting to an amplifier.
The Allegri’s passive, autotransformer-based design, utilizing Fractal™ wire, is optimized for single-ended operation, delivering exceptional transparency, soundstage, and imaging without the need for balanced (XLR) connections. For systems requiring balanced connections, users would need an external adapter or converter, but this may compromise the Allegri’s signal purity. For best performance, use high-quality F1 Fractal™ RCA interconnects to maintain the preamp’s audio fidelity.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The Townshend Allegri Reference, a passive autotransformer-based preamplifier, offers distinct advantages and some trade-offs compared to powered (active) preamplifiers, which use transistors or tubes for signal amplification. Here’s a concise comparison:
  • Signal Purity and Transparency:
    • Allegri Reference: Its passive design eliminates active circuitry and power supply noise, delivering an exceptionally clean, uncolored signal. The Fractal™ wire autotransformers ensure minimal distortion and a wide bandwidth (8Hz–80kHz ±0.1dB), resulting in superior transparency, detailed imaging, and a natural soundstage.
    • Powered Preamps: Active components can introduce noise, distortion, or coloration (e.g., transistor grain or tube warmth), which may mask subtle details or alter the source’s character, though some audiophiles prefer this added “flavor.”
  • Noise and Interference:
    • Allegri Reference: Requires no power supply, avoiding mains-related noise and electromagnetic interference. This makes it ideal for high-resolution systems where silence and clarity are critical.
    • Powered Preamps: Power supplies can introduce hum, buzz, or RF interference, requiring careful design and shielding to minimize. High-end models mitigate this, but some noise is often inevitable.
  • Impedance Matching:
    • Allegri Reference: The autotransformer volume control (AVC) dynamically matches impedance between sources and amplifiers, preventing dynamic loss or frequency roll-off common in resistive passive designs. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of equipment.
    • Powered Preamps: Active circuitry provides buffering to handle impedance mismatches, but this can come at the cost of added complexity and potential signal degradation.
  • Volume Control Precision:
    • Allegri Reference: Offers 129 half-decibel steps via microprocessor-driven relays, providing precise, smooth volume adjustments without audible stepping, surpassing many active preamps’ potentiometers or stepped attenuators.
    • Powered Preamps: Volume control quality varies; high-end models may match the Allegri’s precision, but budget models often use less accurate potentiometers that degrade over time.
  • Vibration Control:
    • Allegri Reference: Features built-in Seismic Isolation, reducing microphonic distortion from external vibrations, enhancing soundstage depth and imaging clarity—a rare feature in preamps.
    • Powered Preamps: Typically lack dedicated vibration isolation, making them more susceptible to microphonics, especially in tube-based designs.
  • Drive Capability and Gain:
    • Allegri Reference: As a passive device, it doesn’t amplify the signal but offers up to +12dB gain via its autotransformer, sufficient for most systems. However, it relies on the source’s output strength and may not drive very low-impedance amplifiers or long cable runs as effectively as active preamps without high-quality cables (e.g., F1 Fractal™ interconnects).
    • Powered Preamps: Provide active gain and buffering, making them better suited for driving challenging loads, long cable runs, or systems requiring significant signal boost, though this can introduce noise or distortion.
  • Reliability and Maintenance:
    • Allegri Reference: With no active components or power supply, it’s inherently reliable, energy-efficient, and requires minimal maintenance. The internal battery for relay control is long-lasting and doesn’t need regular replacement.
    • Powered Preamps: Active components (especially tubes) may require periodic replacement, and power supplies can be prone to wear, increasing maintenance needs.
  • Cost and Complexity:
    • Allegri Reference: Offers high-end performance with a simpler design, potentially reducing costs compared to top-tier active preamps, though its advanced autotransformer and isolation technology command a premium.
    • Powered Preamps: High-end models can be more complex and costly due to sophisticated circuitry, power supplies, and component quality, though budget active preamps may be cheaper but compromise on sound quality.
Summary: The Allegri Reference excels in transparency, low noise, and signal purity, making it ideal for audiophiles prioritizing uncolored sound in well-matched systems with strong source output and high-quality cables. Powered preamplifiers may be better for systems needing significant gain, long cable runs, or specific tonal characteristics, but they often introduce noise or coloration. The Allegri’s Seismic Isolation and precise volume control further set it apart, delivering a reference-level experience for high-fidelity setups. For best results, pair the Allegri with F1 Fractal™ interconnects.
Yes, the Townshend Allegri Reference can be used in a home theater system, but its suitability depends on the setup and requirements due to its passive, single-ended design. Here’s a clear overview for an FAQ:
  • Compatibility:
    • The Allegri Reference is a stereo passive preamplifier with six stereo RCA inputs and two stereo RCA outputs, making it ideal for two-channel audio sources (e.g., music streamers, CD players, or DACs) in a home theater. It can integrate with a home theater processor or AV receiver that has RCA preamp outputs, allowing volume control for stereo sources.
    • It does not support balanced (XLR) connections or multichannel audio (e.g., 5.1 or 7.1), so it’s not designed to directly manage surround sound formats like Dolby Atmos or DTS:X. For multichannel systems, you’d need an AV processor or receiver to handle surround decoding, with the Allegri controlling the stereo front channels or a separate two-channel music setup.
  • Performance Benefits:
    • Transparency: The Allegri’s passive autotransformer design, using Fractal™ wire, delivers exceptional clarity and soundstage, enhancing the quality of stereo music or high-resolution audio in a home theater setup. Its wide bandwidth (8Hz–80kHz ±0.1dB) ensures accurate reproduction of movie soundtracks or music.
    • Low Noise: With no power supply, it eliminates mains noise, providing a clean signal path for high-fidelity audio, ideal for critical listening in a theater environment.
    • Seismic Isolation: Built-in Seismic Isolation reduces vibration-induced distortion, improving imaging and detail, which enhances the spatial accuracy of stereo content in a home theater.
    • Precise Volume Control: Offers 129 half-decibel steps, ensuring smooth and accurate volume adjustments for dynamic movie or music playback.
  • Limitations:
    • No Multichannel Support: The Allegri is limited to stereo, so it cannot directly control surround speakers or subwoofers. You’d need to bypass it for multichannel audio, using an AV receiver or processor for full home theater functionality.
    • No Digital Processing: It lacks onboard DACs, EQ, or room correction, common in AV receivers or processors, so digital sources must be converted to analog (via a DAC) before connecting.
    • Source Output Strength: As a passive device, the Allegri relies on the source’s output (up to 10V RMS) and may not drive very low-impedance amplifiers or long cable runs without high-quality cables like F1 Fractal™ interconnects.
    • Integration Complexity: Integrating the Allegri into a home theater may require additional setup, such as routing stereo sources through it and using an AV processor’s “bypass” or “direct” mode to avoid double processing.
  • Recommended Use Case:
    • The Allegri Reference is best suited for home theater systems where high-fidelity stereo music is a priority alongside surround sound. For example, you can connect it to a DAC or CD player for music playback through the front left/right speakers, while an AV receiver or processor handles multichannel movie audio.
    • Use F1 Fractal™ RCA interconnects to maintain signal integrity, as the Allegri’s transparency reveals cable quality.
Summary: The Townshend Allegri Reference can enhance a home theater system by providing reference-quality stereo audio for music or two-channel sources, but it’s not a standalone solution for multichannel surround sound. It works best in hybrid setups where a separate AV processor or receiver manages surround audio, and the Allegri handles stereo sources with unmatched transparency and precision. Ensure proper integration and use high-quality RCA cables for optimal performance.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The Townshend Allegri Reference is an excellent long-term investment for audiophiles due to its innovative passive design, timeless performance, and durable construction. Here’s why it stands out:
  • Timeless Audio Performance:
    • The Allegri’s passive autotransformer design, using Fractal™ wire, delivers unmatched transparency, low distortion, and a wide bandwidth (8Hz–80kHz ±0.1dB). This ensures a pure, uncolored signal that remains competitive with future audio advancements, as it avoids the coloration or obsolescence of active components like transistors or tubes.
    • Its Seismic Isolation minimizes vibration-induced distortion, preserving soundstage and imaging quality over time, making it a reference-standard preamp for high-fidelity systems.
  • Future-Proof Design:
    • With six stereo RCA inputs and compatibility with a wide range of source components (up to 10V RMS) and amplifiers, the Allegri integrates seamlessly into evolving audio setups, from vinyl to modern DACs.
    • The passive architecture eliminates reliance on power supplies or digital processing, which can become outdated, ensuring relevance regardless of technological trends.
  • Exceptional Reliability:
    • Lacking active circuitry or a power supply, the Allegri is inherently reliable and immune to common issues like component wear, heat degradation, or power supply failures. The microprocessor-driven relay system uses a long-life internal battery, requiring no regular maintenance.
    • Its robust build, with high-quality materials and precision engineering, ensures durability for decades of use.
  • Precise and Versatile Control:
    • The 129 half-decibel volume steps provide precise, smooth adjustments that maintain audio fidelity across all levels, a feature that remains valuable as source and amplifier technologies evolve.
    • The remote control and microprocessor-driven input selection add modern convenience without compromising the analog signal path.
  • Cost-Effective Longevity:
    • While a premium product, the Allegri’s simplicity reduces long-term maintenance costs compared to active preamps, which may require tube replacements or repairs. Its energy efficiency (no power supply) also minimizes operational costs.
    • Its ability to reveal the quality of source components and cables (especially with F1 Fractal™ interconnects) ensures it scales with system upgrades, maximizing value over time.
  • Resale Value and Reputation:
    • Townshend Audio’s reputation for engineering excellence and the Allegri’s critical acclaim in the audiophile community contribute to strong resale value. Its unique design and performance make it a sought-after component in the high-end audio market.
Summary: The Townshend Allegri Reference is a smart long-term investment due to its transparent, future-proof passive design, exceptional reliability, and timeless performance. Its durability, versatility, and ability to enhance any high-fidelity system, paired with minimal maintenance needs, ensure it remains a cornerstone of premium audio setups for years to come. For optimal results, use F1 Fractal™ interconnects to maintain its reference-level performance.
Yes, the Townshend Allegri Reference is exceptionally well-suited for high-resolution audio sources, delivering their full potential with unmatched fidelity. Here’s why it excels in this context:
  • Transparent Signal Path: As a passive preamplifier with Fractal™ wire autotransformers, the Allegri introduces no noise, distortion, or coloration, preserving the fine details and dynamics of high-resolution audio (e.g., 24-bit/192kHz, DSD, or higher). Its pure analog design ensures the integrity of the source signal is maintained.
  • Wide Bandwidth: The Allegri’s frequency response of 8Hz–80kHz ±0.1dB captures the extended range of high-resolution audio, from deep sub-bass to ultrasonic frequencies, delivering the full spectrum of detail and airiness without roll-off.
  • High Input Capability: It can handle source output levels up to 10V RMS, accommodating the strong signals from modern high-resolution DACs and digital players without clipping or distortion, ensuring compatibility with professional-grade equipment.
  • Low Noise Floor: With no power supply or active components, the Allegri eliminates mains noise and interference, providing a silent background that reveals the subtle nuances and micro-dynamics of high-resolution recordings.
  • Seismic Isolation: Built-in Seismic Isolation reduces vibration-induced distortion, enhancing clarity and soundstage precision, which is critical for the immersive imaging and depth of high-resolution audio.
  • Impedance Matching: The autotransformer volume control (AVC) ensures optimal impedance matching between high-resolution sources (e.g., DACs or streamers) and amplifiers, preventing dynamic compression or frequency loss, unlike resistive passive preamps.
  • Precise Volume Control: With 129 half-decibel steps, the Allegri allows fine volume adjustments, preserving the dynamic range and resolution of high-resolution audio even at low levels.
  • Cable Recommendation: To fully realize the Allegri’s transparency with high-resolution sources, use F1 Fractal™ RCA interconnects. Its passive design reveals cable limitations, and inferior cables may reduce detail and dynamics.
Summary: The Townshend Allegri Reference is an ideal match for high-resolution audio sources, offering a transparent, wide-bandwidth signal path that preserves every detail of high-bitrate recordings. Its low noise, precise control, and vibration isolation ensure an uncompromised listening experience, making it a reference choice for audiophiles using modern DACs, streamers, or other high-resolution playback devices. Pair it with F1 Fractal™ interconnects for optimal performance.
The Townshend Allegri Reference has a frequency response of 8Hz–80kHz ±0.1dB. This exceptionally wide bandwidth ensures accurate reproduction of the entire audible spectrum and beyond, preserving deep bass, detailed mids, and extended highs with minimal deviation, making it ideal for high-fidelity and high-resolution audio sources.
Integrating the Townshend Allegri Reference into an existing audio system is straightforward, thanks to its versatile, passive design and user-friendly features. Here’s why it’s easy to incorporate:
  • Universal Compatibility:
    • The Allegri Reference is a passive stereo preamplifier with six stereo RCA inputs and two stereo RCA outputs, making it compatible with most analog source components (e.g., DACs, CD players, phono preamps, streamers) and amplifiers (solid-state or tube) that use RCA connections.
    • It handles source outputs up to 10V RMS and provides up to +12dB gain, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of equipment, from low-output phono stages to high-output digital sources.
  • Simple Connectivity:
    • Connect source components to the Allegri’s RCA inputs and link its RCA outputs to your amplifier’s input. No additional power supply or complex setup is required, as the Allegri operates passively.
    • Input selection is managed via a front-panel knob or remote control, with microprocessor-driven relays ensuring precise, noise-free switching.
  • Impedance Matching:
    • The autotransformer volume control (AVC) dynamically matches impedance between sources and amplifiers, preventing issues like dynamic loss or frequency roll-off common in resistive passive preamps. This ensures seamless integration with most system configurations without the need for additional buffering.
  • No Power Supply Needed:
    • As a fully passive device, the Allegri requires no external power, simplifying setup and eliminating concerns about power outlet placement or mains noise. The internal battery for relay control is long-lasting and maintenance-free.
  • Flexible System Placement:
    • Its compact design and Seismic Isolation technology, which reduces vibration-induced distortion, allow flexible placement near other components or in vibration-prone environments without compromising performance.
  • User-Friendly Operation:
    • The 129 half-decibel volume steps provide precise, smooth adjustments via the front panel or remote, making it easy to fine-tune volume to suit your system’s needs.
    • The Allegri’s transparency integrates seamlessly, revealing the true character of your existing components without adding coloration.
  • Considerations for Optimal Integration:
    • Cables: Use high-quality F1 Fractal™ RCA interconnects to maximize the Allegri’s transparency, as its passive design reveals cable limitations. Inferior cables may reduce clarity or dynamics.
    • Source Strength: Ensure your sources have sufficient output to drive your amplifier through the Allegri, especially for low-impedance amps or long cable runs. Most modern sources are compatible, but very weak outputs may require an active preamp.
    • No Balanced Connections: The Allegri only supports RCA connections, so systems requiring balanced (XLR) inputs/outputs may need adapters, which could affect signal purity.
  • Home Theater Integration:
    • For stereo music in a home theater, the Allegri can control two-channel sources, but it doesn’t support multichannel audio. Connect it to an AV receiver’s RCA preamp outputs for stereo playback, ensuring the receiver bypasses additional processing.
Summary: The Townshend Allegri Reference is easy to integrate into most existing audio systems due to its passive design, RCA connectivity, and broad compatibility with sources and amplifiers. Its plug-and-play setup, remote control, and impedance-matching autotransformer ensure hassle-free incorporation, while F1 Fractal™ interconnects optimize performance. For systems with RCA-based components and sufficient source strength, the Allegri seamlessly enhances audio fidelity with minimal setup complexity.
The Townshend Allegri Reference, being a passive preamplifier with no active components, requires minimal to no break-in period for its core functionality. Its Fractal™ wire autotransformers and passive design deliver consistent performance out of the box. However, there are a few considerations:
  • Initial Settling: Some users report that the Allegri’s sound may subtly refine over the first 20–50 hours of use, as the Fractal™ wire and internal components stabilize. This is typically minor, with improvements in transparency, soundstage depth, and smoothness.
  • Cable Break-In: If using new F1 Fractal™ interconnects (recommended for optimal performance), these cables may benefit from a break-in period of 50–100 hours to reach their full potential, enhancing clarity and dynamics. This is more relevant to the cables than the Allegri itself.
  • System Synergy: Any perceived “break-in” may relate to your system’s components (e.g., amplifiers, sources, or speakers) adjusting to the Allegri’s highly transparent signal path, which reveals the true character of your setup. Allow time to experiment with volume settings and source matching to optimize performance.
Summary: The Townshend Allegri Reference requires no significant break-in period, delivering reference-level performance immediately. Any subtle improvements over the first 20–50 hours are likely due to minor component settling or cable break-in (e.g., F1 Fractal™ interconnects). Simply connect it, use high-quality cables, and enjoy its transparency from the start.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Townshend Audio’s Fractal™ Wire is a proprietary conductor technology used in the Allegri Reference preamplifier and F1 Fractal™ interconnect cables, designed to deliver exceptional audio signal purity and transparency. Here’s a concise explanation for an FAQ:
  • Core Concept: Fractal™ Wire is a specially treated, high-purity copper conductor with a unique, mathematically derived fractal geometry in its structure. This design minimizes signal distortion and maximizes clarity by reducing unwanted electrical effects like skin effect, eddy currents, and inter-crystal distortion, which can degrade audio quality in conventional conductors.
  • Key Benefits:
    • Low Distortion: The fractal structure ensures a smoother signal path, reducing micro-distortions and preserving the nuances of high-resolution audio, resulting in a cleaner, more detailed sound.
    • Wide Bandwidth: Fractal™ Wire supports an extended frequency response (e.g., 8Hz–80kHz ±0.1dB in the Allegri Reference), capturing deep bass, articulate mids, and airy highs without roll-off.
    • Reduced Noise: Its design minimizes electromagnetic interference and signal loss, enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio for a silent background and precise imaging.
    • Transient Accuracy: The wire’s low inductance and optimized conductivity improve transient response, delivering sharp dynamics and a lifelike soundstage.
  • Application in Allegri Reference:
    • In the Allegri Reference, Fractal™ Wire is used in the autotransformer volume control (AVC), ensuring the passive signal path remains transparent and free from coloration. This contributes to the preamp’s exceptional clarity and neutrality compared to traditional transformer or resistive designs.
  • Application in F1 Interconnects:
    • In F1 Fractal™ interconnects, the wire is paired with high-quality shielding and connectors to maintain signal integrity between components. These cables are recommended for use with the Allegri Reference to fully realize its transparency, as inferior cables can bottleneck performance.
  • Why It Matters: Fractal™ Wire’s advanced engineering sets it apart from standard copper or silver conductors, offering a reference-level signal path that reveals the true character of source components and recordings. It’s a key factor in the Allegri Reference’s ability to outperform many active and passive preamplifiers.
Summary: Townshend Audio’s Fractal™ Wire is a high-purity copper conductor with a fractal geometry that minimizes distortion, noise, and signal loss while maximizing bandwidth and transient accuracy. Used in the Allegri Reference’s autotransformers and F1 interconnects, it ensures a transparent, high-fidelity signal path, making it a cornerstone of Townshend’s reference-level audio performance.

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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.

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 componants

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.

" With Lab Results at, or very Close to, The State of the Art "

Martin Colloms-HiFiCritic 2020

No Active componants

“The Allegri Reference is a masterpiece of genuinely innovative design, engineering, execution, and performance that effectively solves or eliminates every issue I’ve ever had with passive preamplifiers… Henceforth, it is one of my reference components for its state-of-the-art technological excellence, intelligent ergonomics, and scarcely rivaled reproduction of music.”

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 soud

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.

Impedance Matching

The Allegri Reference provides optimal impedance matching between the source and the power amplifier. Many passive designs struggle with impedance issues, which can lead to a lack of dynamics or signal degradation. However, the transformer-based system in the Allegri allows for more stable impedance matching, ensuring that there is no loss of drive or dynamics even with longer cables or different amplifiers.

No Power Supply or Active Gain Stage

Unlike active preamplifiers, the Allegri Reference requires no external power supply. This further eliminates any potential hum, noise, or interference that a power source can introduce. Most preamplifiers require a power supply for their internal circuits, but the Allegri avoids this completely, contributing to its silent operation.

Wide Frequency Response

Thanks to its transformer design, the Allegri Reference is capable of delivering an exceptionally wide frequency response with low distortion across the audible spectrum. This contrasts with some passive designs, which may have limited bandwidth due to the resistive nature of their volume control systems.

Connections balanced & unbalanced

The phono circuits are unbalanced for simplicity, and the XLR connectors are wired in parallel with the phono connectors. The configuration is pseudo-balanced with pin 2 of the XLR signal and pin 3 ground. This avoids using an extra balancing transformer with all the associated complications and sound degradation. The Allegri Reference has five stereo phono inputs and two pairs of balanced XLRS, in parallel with inputs 1 and 2. A 3.5mm jack socket is on the front panel, parallel with input 5. It has two sets of stereo phonos and one pair of balanced XLRS for output. The result is a preamplifier that perfectly matches any “Red Book standard” source component to any modern power amplifier.

Intergrated Seismic Isolation

Seismic Isolation is fundamental to the design of the Allegri Reference. This isolates vibration down to 3Hz in all three planes, which offers unmatched performance. The four sturdy supporting feet contain fully featured, highly compliant, air-damped Seismic Isolation modules. This block structure-borne vibration from the feet from reaching the autotransformers. This remarkable effect on the sound quality is easily demonstrated by bypassing the suspension. When bypassed, the sound is exceptional by any normal standards, but when the suspension is incorporated, the soundstage expands dramatically, with height, width and depth greatly increasing. With individual instruments, there is an easily discernible improvement in focus.

front control panels


The left-hand front rotary control selects the inputs, 1 to 5. When the control is pressed, the menu options are activated. The right-hand control adjusts the volume. When the volume control is pressed, the sound is muted. A second press puts the unit in standby.

Why Choose Isolda Speaker Cables?


Most speaker cables in the audio industry overlook the science of transmission line theory, resulting in micro-reflections that smear and veil the purity of sound. These reflections bounce between the source and speaker, muddying the music you love. The Isolda DCT Speaker Cable eliminates this issue through its unique geometry, closely matching the impedance of your amplifier and speakers. The result? A crystal-clear soundstage, lifelike 3d imaging, and seismic bass that transforms your listening experience.

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Engineered for Audiophile Perfection

Crafted by hand in small batches, Townshend Isolda cables feature closely spaced, insulated flat copper conductors encased in a polyester braid sheath. This design makes them virtually immune to Radio Frequency Interference (RFI), ensuring a silent background that lets every note shine. Whether you’re listening to intricate classical compositions or powerful rock anthems, the Isolda delivers sound so natural, it feels like the artist is in the room.

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Flexible and Consistent Performance

Unlike other cables, Isolda DCT Speaker Cables perform flawlessly even in unequal lengths. Thanks to their advanced impedance-matching technology, the sound from each speaker remains identical, regardless of cable length. This flexibility makes them ideal for any audio setup, from compact home systems to sprawling high-end rigs.

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Pure, Uncolored Sound

 

The Isolda DCT’s impedance-matched design (8 ohms) eliminates signal reflections, delivering music exactly as recorded. The Ear praises it as “one of the best speaker cables money can buy” for its neutral, fatigue-free sound.
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Seismic Bass Power

Closely spaced EDCT copper ribbons produce deep, articulate bass with unrivaled solidity. townshendcable.com highlights “bass with a power that is truly seismic,” making every low note punchy and precise.
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Stunning 3D Imaging

he cable’s low-inductance geometry creates a holographic soundstage, placing instruments with pinpoint accuracy. 6 Moons notes it “can convey a huge and realistic soundstage,” immersing you in the music.

 

 

 
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Silent Backgrounds

 

Virtually immune to RFI due to its flat, closely spaced conductors, the Isolda DCT ensures pitch-black backgrounds.
 
With genuinely silent backgrounds,” letting subtle details shine.“
 
 
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Perfect Impedance Matching

With an 8-ohm impedance matching typical speakers, the Isolda DCT prevents distortion from mismatched cables. townshendcable.com explains this preserves square waves, ensuring “no ringing or distortion.”
 
 
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Unequal Lengths, Same Sound

Unlike other cables, Isolda DCT Speaker Cables perform flawlessly even in unequal lengths. Thanks to their advanced impedance-matching technology, the sound from each speaker remains identical, regardless of cable length. This flexibility makes them ideal for any audio setup, from compact home systems to sprawling high-end rigs.

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Explosive, Precise Dynamics

 

EDCT-treated conductors deliver lightning-fast transients and vast dynamics for thrilling playback. From soft whispers to orchestral peaks, every note snaps with energy, as HiFi Pig praises its “bass clarity and space.” townshendcable.com emphasizes high-current handling, ideal for dynamic genres like rock or classical. The Isolda DCT brings music to life with unmatched precision and power.
 
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Natural, Fatigue-Free Sound

We’ve engineered the Isolda DCT for a relaxed, natural sound, free from harshness or edge. Impedance matching and RFI immunity ensure effortless music flow, perfect for vocals or acoustics, and one astute audiophile’s tale of his relief from “Alice-in-Wonderland” cable woes. Enjoy hours of fatigue-free listening with emotional depth and clarity.
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Unleash Your Music’s True Potential

Unlike other cables, Isolda DCT Speaker Cables perform flawlessly even in unequal lengths. Thanks to their advanced impedance-matching technology, the sound from each speaker remains identical, regardless of cable length. This flexibility makes them ideal for any audio setup, from compact home systems to sprawling high-end rigs.

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Unleash Your Music’s True Potential

 The Townshend Isolda DCT Speaker Cable is your key to audiophile bliss.

 Transform your hi-fi into a sonic masterpiece. Don’t just listen—experience music with seismic power, stunning clarity, and soul-stirring emotion today.

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