Performance 2 Monoblock Amplifier

A New Reference

The Constellation Performance 2 Stereo and Monoblock Amplifiers are among the very finest amplifiers ever built, engineered to deliver an unmatched combination of sound quality and unbridled power.

The Input Stage

The Line Stage Gain Module input stage utilizes hand-matched, low-noise transistors combined with a servo circuit that corrects any signal balance inconsistencies. The Constellation Direct XLR input removes one amplification stage from the signal path for less complexity and even greater musicality with these Performance 2 flagships.

The Power Supply

Performance 2 elevates sound to a new level with our revolutionary Switch-Mode Power Supply (SMPS), the best amplifier power supply ever created. Power Factor Correction (PFC) technology provides stable power at any AC supply voltage—worldwide. Voltage and current are always in phase regardless of speaker load, power over the previous version is increased by 20 percent, and noise is more than 20 dB lower than a typical linear power supply.

The Circuit

The Performance 2 amplifiers employ balanced configuration, using separate amplifier circuits for the positive and negative halves of the audio signal. Other balanced amplifiers use N-type transistors for the positive half of the circuit and P-type transistors for the negative half. Our Balanced Bridged configuration uses only N-type transistors, so both signal halves pass through exactly the same circuitry—with even the softest musical details preserved.

The Performance Pinnacle

The Performance 2 amplifiers further refine the proven circuits and core design philosophy that are the Constellation design ethos. Through a combination of Constellation’s innovative audio circuits and revolutionary SMPS power supply, the Performance 2 amplifiers achieve truly astounding sonic results, eclipsing that of their predecessors and even the outgoing Reference series. Music lovers seeking an unrivaled listening experience will be amply rewarded.

Performance 2 Stereo/Mono Amplifier - Product Sheet

Performance 2 Stereo/Mono Amplifier - Manual

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A New Reference

The Constellation Performance 2 Stereo and Monoblock Amplifiers are among the very finest amplifiers ever built, engineered to deliver an unmatched combination of sound quality and unbridled power.

The Input Stage

The Line Stage Gain Module input stage utilizes hand-matched, low-noise transistors combined with a servo circuit that corrects any signal balance inconsistencies. The Constellation Direct XLR input removes one amplification stage from the signal path for less complexity and even greater musicality with these Performance 2 flagships.

The Power Supply

Performance 2 elevates sound to a new level with our revolutionary Switch-Mode Power Supply (SMPS), the best amplifier power supply ever created. Power Factor Correction (PFC) technology provides stable power at any AC supply voltage—worldwide. Voltage and current are always in phase regardless of speaker load, power over the previous version is increased by 20 percent, and noise is more than 20 dB lower than a typical linear power supply.

The Circuit

The Performance 2 amplifiers employ balanced configuration, using separate amplifier circuits for the positive and negative halves of the audio signal. Other balanced amplifiers use N-type transistors for the positive half of the circuit and P-type transistors for the negative half. Our Balanced Bridged configuration uses only N-type transistors, so both signal halves pass through exactly the same circuitry—with even the softest musical details preserved.

The Performance Pinnacle

The Performance 2 amplifiers further refine the proven circuits and core design philosophy that are the Constellation design ethos. Through a combination of Constellation’s innovative audio circuits and revolutionary SMPS power supply, the Performance 2 amplifiers achieve truly astounding sonic results, eclipsing that of their predecessors and even the outgoing Reference series. Music lovers seeking an unrivaled listening experience will be amply rewarded.

Performance 2 Stereo/Mono Amplifier - Product Sheet

Performance 2 Stereo/Mono Amplifier - Manual

By clicking “Submit” you agree to receive text and email messages from Constellation Audio, Inc. related to marketing, product news, and account updates. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. We do not share your personal information. Contact us for help. Please view our Privacy Policy.

News

Article

Revolutionizing High-End Audio: Constellation Audio’s Journey of Innovation and Excellence

Our journey into high-end audio has been transformative in managing a company and unlocking the vast potential achievable through the right partnerships in engineering, service, and technology. At Constellation Audio, my goal was to go beyond the conventional limits of the audio industry. The mission was clear: harness cutting-edge technology and innovative design to craft superior audio systems. This endeavor was about more than just launching another audio company; it was about establishing new benchmarks and propelling the industry forward.

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Article

The Rise of Statement and the Constellation 2 Series

The inception of Statement around 2017-2018 marked a pivotal moment in my reflection on Constellation Audio’s direction, especially after exploring the challenges presented by our LEO project. As we grappled with its high costs and impractical manufacturing process, I realized the necessity of innovating and redefining our product line to keep our offerings fresh and technologically advanced.

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Article

Wilson Audio Specialties The WATT/Puppy Loudspeaker Paired with Performance 2)

… With these install details in place, I could now better appreciate the many qualities on offer. Clarity was undoubtedly exceptional, while soundstages were presented on a generous, almost cinematic scale, filled with detail, and showed no hint of distortion or strain, at least up to my 600Wpc/4 ohm limit. Given the W/P has above- average voltage sensitivity, calculated sound levels were peaking at an impressive 112dBA in-room with no sign of mechanical overload. While it may rank as a junior in Wilson’s “separated box” range, it punches well above its weight, easily capable of driving larger spaces.

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Article

Outstanding Product: Revelation 2 Series

Californian amplifier specialist Constellation Audio isn’t one to regularly refresh its product catalogue, so when – after years of maintaining the same models – it begins a complete overhaul of its entire range, audiophile ears prick up. First to hit the market are the new Inspiration 2 and Revelation 2 series, with the latter’s stereo pre/power system being debuted at the UK Hi-Fi Show Live 2024. These will be followed by the Performance 2 and Reference 2 [see boxout], with the lineup then topped off by the flagship Statement amplifiers first ‘teased’ in 2023 at the Munich High End show.

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Revolutionizing High-End Audio: Constellation Audio's Journey of Innovation and Excellence

My journey into high-end audio has been transformative in managing a company and unlocking the vast potential achievable through the right partnerships in engineering, service, and technology. At Constellation Audio, my goal was to go beyond the conventional limits of the audio industry. The mission was clear: harness cutting-edge technology and innovative design to craft superior audio systems. This endeavor was about more than just launching another audio company; it was about establishing new benchmarks and propelling the industry forward.

Launching Constellation Audio marked the pinnacle of a lifelong passion for music and sound, now refined into a strategic business model that prioritizes innovation, quality, and performance. This venture is a testament to how youthful enthusiasm for audio can mature into a significant, industry-shaping enterprise.

Over the first 15 years, Constellation Audio has pursued ambitious objectives rooted in the deep-seated values we hold, stemming from decades of combined industry experience across our team. We’re dedicated to surpassing the achievements of even the most revered audio brands, striving to delight audiophiles while sidestepping typical pitfalls. We’ve translated this vision into action through meticulous product design and manufacturing, adhering to our high standards of technical excellence, exceptional customer service, and unrivaled audio fidelity.

We take pride in blending tradition with innovation, building on the audio world’s rich heritage while integrating the latest technological advances. This approach, driven by our collaborative team of top-tier engineers, keeps us ahead without being bogged down by outdated techniques or complexities. Our products embody a profound respect for audio purity and design simplicity, resulting in devices that deliver outstanding performance and aesthetically enhance any environment.

Constellation Audio has consistently demonstrated a commitment to technological elevation and revolution, exemplified by the development of the Statement amplifier. As the audio landscape evolved, the company recognized a need to push beyond traditional designs and embrace innovation. Faced with the practical challenges and high costs of previous projects, the company’s decision to pivot towards integrating switch mode power supplies (C-SMPS) marked a strategic shift towards more advanced and reliable technologies. This transition was not just about adopting new technologies for novelty but was a deliberate choice to ensure their products remained at the forefront of the high-end audio market. The introduction of the Constellation Switch Mode Power Supply (C-MPS) within the Statement product line is a testament to their pioneering spirit. It illustrates how Constellation Audio leverages cutting-edge technology to set new industry standards, continually seeking opportunities to enhance audio fidelity and operational stability, revolutionizing audiophiles’ listening experience worldwide.

Furthermore, at Constellation Audio, we emphasize craftsmanship and loyalty. Each device is handcrafted by skilled technicians committed to perfection, thoroughly tested, and fine-tuned to ensure it meets our exacting standards before reaching our customers. We recognize that purchasing our products is a significant investment, demonstrating trust in our brand. We honor this trust by consistently delivering the best audio experiences possible, solidifying our position as a leader in the high-end audio market, and continuously earning the respect and loyalty of discerning listeners worldwide.

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The Rise of Statement and the Constellation 2 Series

The inception of Statement around 2017-2018 marked a pivotal moment in my reflection on Constellation Audio’s direction. I realized the necessity of innovating and redefining our product line to keep our offerings fresh and technologically advanced.

The transition to incorporating switch mode power supplies (SMPS) into our designs was a significant leap, prompted by stability issues with our previous models and the limitations of our designs at the time. Partnering with a company experienced in high-powered C-SMPS allowed us to adopt the best technologies to push our brand forward. By late 2018, we had solidified the concept of Statement, envisioning a radical new design that differentiated it from our existing products. The introduction of the Constellation Switch Mode Power Supply (C-SMPS) was a crucial innovation in Statement, moving away from traditional transformer-based designs towards a model that promised greater accuracy and reliability.

The development process for Statement was comprehensive, involving extensive collaboration with engineers to refine our designs and ensure they met the highest audio quality standards. Our switch to C-SMPS was not taken lightly; it involved rigorous testing and adaptation to ensure that these new systems would not only meet but exceed traditional systems’ performance and reliability, including our previous generation of products. The launch of Statement was a significant step for Constellation Audio, embodying our commitment to continuous innovation and improvement. This approach ensures that we are not just reacting to changes in technology and industry standards but are actively participating in shaping the future of high-end audio equipment. Our focus remains steadfast on providing products that offer exceptional audio quality and are built to inspire confidence and pride among our users, ensuring that our products are worthy of their investment and trust.

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Wilson Audio Specialties The WATT/Puppy Loudspeaker Paired with Reference 2)

By Martin Colloms

… With these install details in place, I could now better appreciate the many qualities on offer. Clarity was undoubtedly exceptional, while soundstages were presented on a generous, almost cinematic scale, filled with detail, and showed no hint of distortion or strain, at least up to my 600Wpc/4 ohm limit. Given the W/P has above-average voltage sensitivity, calculated sound levels were peaking at an impressive 112dBA in-room with no sign of mechanical overload. While it may rank as a junior in Wilson’s “separated box” range, it punches well above its weight, easily capable of driving larger spaces. And that usefully high voltage sensitivity is certainly realized in practice, leading to an impressive dynamic range.

Sounding notably uniform in frequency balance, the Wilson’s
coherent driver ensemble is easy on the ear, from the outset smooth-sounding and well-blended. Yet when explosive percussive information arrives, this new Wilson can certainly crack the whip. While this 4 ohm amplifier load is certainly not the most difficult I have encountered, towards its maximum rated power of 200Wpc into 4 ohms (and this was loud!), I suspected that my Naim NAP 250 was showing signs of mild dynamic compression when feeding really heavy, deep bass. I was confident that more was possible. Accordingly, I swapped in a Constellation Revelation 2 stereo power amplifier, specified at 300Wpc into 8 ohms and 600Wpc into
4 ohms. (This Constellation amplifier is justly acquiring something of a reputation for power and quality, if at two to three times the price of my Naim. My thanks to UK distributor Absolute Sounds for
the loan.) …

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Hi-Fi News: January 2025
Outstanding Product: Revelation 2 Series

By Mark Craven

Californian amplifier specialist Constellation Audio isn’t one to regularly refresh its product catalogue, so when – after years of maintaining the same models – it begins a complete overhaul of its entire range, audiophile ears prick up. First to hit the market are the new Inspiration 2 and Revelation 2 series, with the latter’s stereo pre/power system being debuted at the UK Hi-Fi Show Live 2024. These will be followed by the Performance 2 and Reference 2 [see boxout], with the lineup then topped off by the flagship Statement amps first ‘teased’ in 2023 at the Munich High End show.

Mark Craven discovered that “new, precision-engineered power supplies boost every facet of performance” while offering “a masterclass in transient attack, decay, bite and texture.”

There’s a clear hierarchy to these series, and the Revelation 2, like its predecessor, is intended as the ‘strategic link’ between Constellation’s entry-level Inspiration hardware and its costlier models. To that end, the Revelation 2 Stereo Amplifier sells for £35,000, while the Revelation 2 Preamplifier is £29,998. There’s also a new £33,998 Revelation Phono Preamplifier, with flexible loading options for MC and MM pick-ups, plus the Revelation 2 Mono amplifier at £35,000 a piece. Not pocket change prices, then, but not quite as vertiginous as that of Constellation’s step-up Performance 2, where the incoming Stereo 500 amplifier, which is the successor to the Centaur II 500 Stereo [HFN Sep ’19], will set you back £97,998. 

Article continues, click below:

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