ALLEGRI REFERENCE
Welcome to the Townshend Allegri Reference, where the philosophy of "Less is More" defines our approach to high-fidelity audio.
The Allegri Reference is a cutting-edge, microprocessor-controlled passive autotransformer volume control (AVC) pre-amplifier, meticulously crafted for both the discerning home hi-fi enthusiast and professional audiophile. Wired with Townshend’s exclusive Fractal™ cable, it offers full remote control, a crystal-clear LED display, and advanced Seismic Isolation technology. Engineered for absolute signal purity, it is the ultimate centerpiece for any high-end audio system, delivering the precision and control that serious audiophiles have been waiting for.
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.
Why Choose The Allegri Reference
Unique amongst others
The Allegri Reference Preamplifier by Townshend Audio is unique compared to other preamplifier designs due to its passive transformer-based volume control and several other specialized design features contributing to its high-fidelity performance. Passive design is the main factor that sets it apart (No Active Electronics). 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.
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.
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.
Allegri Reference
£9,990.00
The Townshend Audio Allegri Reference preamplifier is actually classed as an ‘Autotransformer Preamplifier’; an autotransformer is materially different from a standard transformer (which has entirely separate windings between input and output) in that it takes a single winding with 24 discrete output taps. This means that the Allegri Reference offers 129 half-decibel steps; a far wider range than anyone has managed with stepped volume pots. The Allegri works to a pure inverse-square transformer function, where you get four times the drive if you halve the voltage, this is a preamplifier that actually gets better at low listening levels, thanks to improved low impedance1.
The Allegri+ differs in functionality by adding a mute switch and a front panel input on a minijack and in appearance by better finishing and knurling on the knobs.
Description
The Allegri Reference Volume Control by Townshend is a high-performance passive preamplifier that enhances your audio experience. Its unique, innovative design utilizes precision resistors and a high-quality, non-magnetic enclosure to deliver exceptional sound clarity and detail. The Allegri ensures a transparent signal path, allowing you to enjoy your music as the artist intended. With its sleek aesthetic and user-friendly operation, this volume control is perfect for audiophiles seeking both style and substance in their audio setup. Upgrade your listening experience with the Allegri Reference Volume Control
Additional information
| Dimensions | 40 × 30 × 13 cm |
|---|---|
| finish | Brushed AluminiumISatin Black |
Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.
High-Quality Components and Build
The Allegri Reference is built with high-quality components, including custom-made transformers and precision volume controls. The attention to detail and engineering precision contribute to its audiophile-grade performance, with reviewers noting that it provides a clear, detailed, and uncoloured sound.
Fine adjustment 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.
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
With the remote control, you can operate volume change and mute, select any one of the five inputs and program a specific pre-set offset volume level. Display blanking is also switchable from the remote.
One press of the volume button, up or down, changes the volume by one step of 0.5 dB. If the button is held down, the volume steps will be spaced at half-second intervals at first and then the stepping amount will increase. This allows for large volume changes in a relatively short time, with the entire range from 1 to 129 in covered in 10 seconds. In use, it feels just right.
To equalise the often widely varying output levels of different source components, all inputs may be pre-programmed with your chosen volume level. The range is +/- 30 steps or +/– 15dB.
All inputs may be also be set at maximum volume fixed, or zero dB, for home cinema bypass. This feature allows the Allegri Reference to effectively “disappear” as it directly connects the AV receiver to the front left and front right power amplifiers. The volume is then controlled by the AV receiver. The mute function remains active. The mute function also doubles as a standby control.
The remote is an Apple-style remote control. It is very sensitive, so it is not necessary to point it directly at the unit. There is a convenient magnet attachment to store the remote under the front of the unit.
CONNECTIONS BALANCED and 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 the use of an extra balancing transformer with all the associated complications and degradations in sound. The Allegri Reference has five stereo phono inputs and two pairs of balanced XLRs, in parallel with inputs 1 and 2. There is a 3.5mm jack socket, on the front panel, in parallel with input 5. For output, it has two sets of stereo phonos and one pair of balanced XLRs. The result is a preamplifier that can perfectly match 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. These block structure-borne vibration from the feet from reaching the autotransformers. This has a remarkable effect on the sound quality and 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 being greatly increased. With individual instruments, there is an easily discernible improvement in focus.
FRONT PANEL CONTROLS
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.
USERS
Users and reviewers often describe the sound of the Allegri Reference as incredibly transparent and neutral. Because it doesn’t add any active gain or colouration, it essentially “disappears” in the audio chain, letting the source and amplifier do the work without interference. In summary, the Allegri Reference Preamplifier is different from other preamplifiers primarily because it uses a passive, transformer-based design that eliminates the need for active electronics or power supplies. Its transparency, lack of distortion, precise impedance matching, and wide frequency response set it apart from traditional preamps that rely on active circuitry for signal processing.
“With lab results at, or very close to, the state of the art..”
Martin Colloms
HiFi Critic
2020
The Townshend Difference
The Allegri Reference preamplifier represents the pinnacle of Max Townshend’s lifelong pursuit to eliminate colorations and distortions from audio reproduction, offering the purest listening experience possible. Over the years, Max has pioneered numerous innovations, from the parabolic styli to the Rock turntable, cryogenically treated wire, and seismic isolation techniques. His latest creation, the Allegri Reference, embodies his quest for the perfect volume control, leveraging advanced transformer technology and reed relay switching to deliver unmatched transparency and precision. Volume control is critical in any audio system, as it must handle the delicate task of attenuating sound without introducing noise, distortion, or capacitance issues. Most traditional methods—whether passive or active potentiometers, switched resistor arrays, optical systems, or even digital volume controls—fail to achieve this without compromising sound quality. The Allegri Reference’s innovative reed relay-switched autotransformer offers a revolutionary solution, ensuring seamless operation with precise, incremental volume adjustments that remain true to the original signal. With its carefully designed Seismic Isolation feet, aerospace-grade components, and cutting-edge Fractal™ wire, the Allegri Reference delivers an extraordinary, lifelike listening experience. It allows the music to flow effortlessly, providing crystalline clarity and immersive soundstage reproduction. Whether you’re listening to classical symphonies or rock anthems, the Allegri Reference makes it feel as though the equipment disappears, leaving only the magic of the music behind. This is not just another preamplifier—it’s a game-changer in high-end audio, offering unprecedented value and performance at its price point.
MAX TOWNSHEND
Townshend Audio Creator
MAX TOWNSHEND
Townshend Audio Creator
Specifications
attenuation Table
Specifications
- Transformer-Based Volume Control: Utilizing transformer technology for volume control minimizes signal degradation and maintains high sound quality, ensuring an immersive listening experience.
- Reed Relay Switched Autotransformer Volume Control (AVC): The use of reed relays ensures a perfect connection and reliability, offering precise remote volume adjustments in 129 half-dB steps. This advanced technology enhances user experience and minimizes signal distortion.
- Combatting RF Interference: Incorporating a specially designed common-mode filter and medical-grade switch-mode supply mitigates RF interference, ensuring consistent sound quality across various power amplifiers.
- Revolutionary Core Upgrades: Featuring exclusive Grade 80 Permalloy alloy from the USA, the autotransformers promise reduced distortion, stronger magnetic induction, and decreased noise, resulting in a significant leap in performance.
- Enhanced Sound Quality: Through rigorous testing and innovative design, the Allegri Reference delivers enhanced bass articulation, sharper high-frequency focus, and an overall improvement in sound quality, providing an immersive listening experience like never before.
- Aesthetic Design: Available in silver metallic or black finish, with a frontal display featuring input and volume level indicators, the Allegri Reference combines sleek design with intuitive functionality, enhancing both visual appeal and user convenience.
- Competitive Pricing: Priced at £9990, the Allegri Reference offers unparalleled performance at a competitive price point, making it accessible to audiophiles seeking top-tier audio fidelity without compromising on quality.
- Fractal wire and transformer technology
- 104 ultra-long-life precision Reed relays for switching
- No detrimental connectors in signal path, all connections are hard-wired
- Clock only activated when control is operated, minimizing interference
- LED readouts run on interference-free DC, preventing degradation of sound
- Seismic isolation integrated within the feet for improved sound quality
- Silent linear power supply for electronics, reducing noise
- 129 x 0.5dB steps for precise volume control
- Five stereo phono inputs, two pairs of balanced XLRs, two stereo phono outputs, and one pair of balanced XLR outputs
- Front panel 3.5mm jack socket wired in parallel with input 5
- Bypass feature for home cinema integration
- Gain offset capability
- Remotely controlled input select pre-programmable for desired listening levels
- Brightness of readouts adjusts to ambient light for optimal readability
- Display options in numerals or decibels, with the ability to blank display from remote
- Flashes decimal point on input channel display with each remote input
- Attenuation table provided for reference
Reference at the Pacific West Audio Fest with Millercarbon
Allegri Reference and Rock Reference turntable at U.K Audio Show
~ 25 minutes
What our customers says about us?
4.9
Rating of 185 reviews
Enhanced Sound Quality
Enjoy the most neutral and natural sounding preampfification on the planet
Relaxing Audio Experience
Transformers taps to attenuate volume rather than resistors
Comprehensive Vibration Control
The Allegri has integrated Seismic Isolation
CHECK OUR WHERE The Allegri lives
Estelon
Kerr Acoustic
Estelon
Estelon
EXPLORE INSIGHTS AND EXPERTISE
Townshend Allegri + Preamplifier by Jason Kennedy Editor of The Ear Online
Jason Kennedy
Townshend Allegri + Preamplifier by Jason Kennedy Editor of The Ear Online
Jason Kennedy
Townshend Allegri + Preamplifier by Jason Kennedy Editor of The Ear Online
Jason Kennedy
Review: Townshend Allegri Reference Passive PRE from hifi NL online magazine
Jason Kennedy
Townshend Allegri + Preamplifier by Jason Kennedy Editor of The Ear Online
Jason Kennedy
frequently asked questions
Townshend Audio’s mechanical low pass filter exemplifies true decoupling, offering a level of vibration isolation that far surpasses conventional attenuation methods. By effectively isolating components from vibrations down to below 3 Hz, Townshend ensures that high-fidelity audio systems perform at their best, free from the distortions caused by external vibrations.
The Allegri Reference is designed with versatility in mind. Its transformer-based volume control ensures impedance matching, allowing it to work seamlessly with a wide range of sources, including CD players, DACs, phono stages, and even high-output sources like streamers. This ensures optimal signal transfer without degrading sound quality.
Yes, the Allegri Reference is compatible with both solid-state and tube amplifiers. Its design allows for perfect impedance matching between your source and amplifier, regardless of whether the amplifier is a solid-state or tube design. This ensures you get the best possible performance from any amplifier type.
Being a passive preamplifier, the Allegri doesn’t add any coloration, distortion, or noise to the signal. Without active circuitry, it maintains the purity and dynamics of the original sound, providing a highly transparent and accurate listening experience.
No, the Allegri Reference is entirely passive and does not require any external power supply. This design minimizes noise and interference that can be introduced by active components, ensuring a clean signal path.
The Allegri Reference is known for its ability to preserve the soundstage and imaging of a recording. Thanks to its transparent and neutral design, it allows you to hear more of the original recording’s spatial characteristics, delivering a well-defined and lifelike soundstage.
The Allegri Reference works well with high-quality, low-capacitance interconnect cables. Because it is a passive device, cable quality can have an impact on performance. It’s recommended to use cables that preserve signal integrity without introducing noise or high capacitance. We always recommend the use of Townshend Speaker and interconnect cable were ever possible.
The standard Allegri Reference is designed for single-ended RCA connections. However, Townshend offers other preamplifiers with balanced XLR options, if that is a requirement for your system.
Powered preamplifiers often amplify the signal, which can introduce noise, distortion, or unwanted coloration. The Allegri Reference, by contrast, focuses on pure signal preservation without any active gain stages, resulting in an uncolored and transparent sound. It often outperforms powered preamps in terms of clarity and naturalness.
While the Allegri Reference is primarily designed for high-fidelity stereo systems, it can be used in home theatre setups as long as your sources are stereo audio components. However, it does not have features like surround sound processing or bass management typically required in home theatre systems.
The Allegri Reference’s passive design means there are no active electronic components that can wear out over time, such as transistors, capacitors, or tubes. This makes it a highly durable product, requiring minimal maintenance and offering long-lasting, high-performance audio.
Yes, the Allegri Reference is capable of handling high-resolution audio formats without any loss in fidelity. Its passive design ensures that even the finest details and nuances of high-resolution audio are preserved without distortion or signal degradation.
The Allegri Reference offers an extremely wide and flat frequency response from 5 Hz to over 100 kHz, ensuring that no part of the audio spectrum is lost or altered. This makes it ideal for audiophiles who demand full-range performance.
Integrating the Allegri Reference into your system is simple. With standard RCA connections and no need for an external power source, it can easily be added between your source components and amplifier. The volume control is straightforward to use and delivers consistent, high-quality sound across all listening levels.
Ready to transform your audio setup?
Visit www.townshendisolation.com to explore our innovative solutions and bring the pure sound of music into your home.
Sales / Support / General Inquiry
- Townshend Audio
7 Bridge Road, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9EU, UK. - mail@townshendaudio.com
- +44 (0) 208 979 2155
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Feel free to reach out to us using the contact form below. We would love to hear from you and discuss products you are looking to buy. Get in touch with us today to discuss your journey into the world of music.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.