At Townshend Audio, we’re thrilled to share the latest review of our Allegri Reference preamplifier by renowned audio critic Jonathan Gorse, published in SoundStage! Ultra. This in-depth analysis highlights what makes the Allegri Reference stand out in the world of high-fidelity audio, emphasising its innovative design and exceptional performance. As Gorse notes, “The Townshend Audio Allegri Reference is certainly the most unusual preamplifier I have ever reviewed.” He even reveals that our founder, Max Townshend, considered the Allegri his greatest achievement—surpassing even his iconic Rock turntable and groundbreaking work in acoustic isolation. Innovative Design and Technical Excellence. The Allegri Reference breaks from convention by using an autotransformer volume control (AVC) design, eschewing traditional valves or transistors. This passive approach ensures “virtually no noise or distortion into the audio signal,” with an impressive bandwidth of 8Hz–80kHz (±0.1dB)—a specification Gorse struggles to match with any other preamp. The unit features precise 0.5dB volume steps, hermetically sealed reed relays, and our proprietary Fractal wire, all housed in a compact, vibration-isolated chassis. Sound Quality That Captivates Gorse’s listening sessions reveal the Allegri Reference’s sonic prowess across diverse genres. He describes its portrayal of the Buckingham Nicks album as having “a gorgeously liquid sonic signature, which managed to sound both transparent and smooth.” The absence of transistor glare is evident, delivering a “world-class soundstage” where “the sense of the performers being in the room in a defined position—with both depth and width—was utterly captivating.” He proclaims it “probably the most three-dimensional preamplifier I have ever heard.”Instruments shine vividly: Lindsey Buckingham’s guitar on “Django” is “scrupulously delineated, rich with timbre, and impressively dynamic,” while harmony vocals allow individual contributions to be “appreciated fully, without compromising their blended harmonies.” Drums are rendered with “excellent power and depth.”On Duran Duran’s Liberty, Simon Le Bon’s vocals are “centre-stage,” with drums projected via “excellent power and drive”—surprising for a passive device. Compared to his Naim preamp, the Allegri sounds “less grainy,” offering strengths “rare outside an extremely elite group of valve amplifiers of impeccable quality.”Jazz enthusiasts will appreciate the “stunning transparency” of Lee Morgan’s The Sidewinder, which delivers a “fabulously lifelike rendition” with “positively explosive” dynamics and “impressive naturalness.” The preamp’s “vanishingly low noise floor” reveals “inky-black backgrounds,” enhancing the feel of a live performance. With the Blue Nile’s Hats, every vocal inflexion is in “startling clarity,” presented with “aching transparency.” Gorse affirms, “There isn’t anything else quite like it in high-end audio.”Even challenging tracks like Michael Jackson’s Bad showcase “fulsome and surprisingly taut” bass, with a “gloriously honest portrayal” that’s faithful to the source.A Compelling Choice for Audiophiles. In his conclusion, Gorse praises the Allegri Reference for its “spine-tingling intensity” and “naturalness to its delivery that was utterly enchanting.” It offers “incredible imaging and entirely grain-free sound,” making music “natural and tangible in the room in a way I found sublimely satisfying.” Ultimately, it’s “a wonderfully open window into every recording,” offering something “quite different to all those mass-market preamplifiers.” As Gorse sums it up, “It’s a compelling option at any price.”We couldn’t be prouder of this feedback. If you’re seeking unparalleled transparency, silence, and musicality, the Allegri Reference is ready to elevate your system. Read the full review here and contact us to learn more!