In the ever-evolving world of high-fidelity audio, few components capture the imagination of audiophiles like a truly exceptional preamplifier. The Townshend Audio Allegri Reference, a microprocessor-controlled passive autotransformer volume control (AVC) preamplifier, has garnered significant praise for its innovative design and breathtaking performance. In a recent review by Paul Saydor, published in the April edition of The Absolute Sound, the Allegri Reference is lauded as a game-changer, delivering a listening experience that sets a new standard for transparency and musicality. Here, we dive into Saydor’s insights, spotlighting his standout quote, and explore why this preamplifier is making waves in the audiophile community.

Saydor’s review highlights the Allegri Reference’s ability to deliver a seamless and dynamic soundstage, noting, “Coherence, timing, and drive are as good as any I’ve encountered, while transient response (‘speed’ as some audiophiles prefer) is outstanding (i.e., percussion instruments sound like the real thing).” This statement encapsulates the essence of what makes the Allegri Reference so special. Its passive design, utilizing Townshend’s proprietary Fractal™ wire and ultra-reliable reed relays, ensures that the signal path remains untainted by active components, resulting in a sound that is both pure and explosive. The exceptional transient response Saydor describes brings percussion instruments to life with startling realism, making every drum hit and cymbal crash feel as if it’s happening in the room.

The Allegri Reference’s strengths lie in its minimalist approach, stripping away unnecessary circuitry to let the music shine. With 129 individual 0.5dB volume steps, full remote control, and a crystal-clear LED display, it combines cutting-edge functionality with sonic purity. Saydor’s review emphasizes its ability to maintain coherence across the frequency spectrum, ensuring that complex musical passages remain unified and engaging. The preamplifier’s timing and drive—qualities that breathe life into music—rival the best in the industry, while its speed allows for a level of detail and immediacy that captivates listeners. Whether it’s the thunderous impact of a bass drum or the delicate shimmer of a hi-hat, the Allegri Reference reproduces these elements with an authenticity that is, as Saydor notes, “outstanding.”

Beyond its technical prowess, the Allegri Reference is designed for the discerning audiophile. Its five stereo phono inputs, two balanced XLR inputs, and multiple output options make it versatile for any high-end system. The inclusion of Townshend’s Seismic Isolation technology further enhances performance by minimizing vibrations, ensuring that every nuance of the music is preserved. Saydor’s review, set to be published in full shortly, underscores the preamplifier’s ability to elevate any audio setup, making it a worthy centerpiece for those who demand the ultimate in fidelity.

For those eager to explore the full depth of Paul Saydor’s analysis, the complete review can be found in the April edition of The Absolute Sound. His insights confirm what many audiophiles have already discovered: the Townshend Audio Allegri Reference is not just a preamplifier—it’s a revelation. By delivering unparalleled coherence, timing, drive, and transient response, it invites listeners to rediscover their music with a clarity and emotional impact that is truly transformative. If you’re in search of a preamplifier that lets the music speak for itself, the Allegri Reference is an absolute must-audition.

For the full review, see the April edition of The Absolute Sound, or stay tuned for the forthcoming publication of Paul Saydor’s complete analysis.