Constellation Performance 2 Preamplifier

Constellation Performance 2 Preamplifier

The Constellation Performance 2 Preamplifier establishes a new reference for discerning music lovers seeking uncompromising analog performance. At its core is Constellation's exclusive Line Stage Gain Module, a circuit architecture renowned for exceptional transparency, dimensionality, and musical realism. Complementing the analog circuitry is a dedicated external Switch-Mode Power Supply (C-SMPS), housed in its own chassis to deliver exceptionally clean, stable power beyond the capabilities of conventional transformer-based designs.

Classic Circuitry

The Performance 2 Preamplifier features Constellation's proprietary Line Stage Gain Module, employing a fully balanced, mirror-imaged circuit topology with hand-matched, ultra-low-noise transistors. A precision servo circuit continuously monitors signal balance and corrects even the smallest inaccuracies, preserving absolute channel symmetry.

When paired with a Constellation power amplifier, the preamplifier can connect directly to the amplifier's Constellation Direct XLR input, bypassing the amplifier's input stage entirely. This shortened signal path reduces complexity while delivering even greater purity, transparency, and musical refinement.

Dedicated C-SMPS Power Supply

Years of engineering development led Constellation to perfect the implementation of its proprietary Switch-Mode Power Supply technology. While significantly more challenging to engineer than traditional linear supplies, the resulting C-SMPS delivers dramatically quieter DC power—more than 20 dB lower in noise—while maintaining consistent performance regardless of fluctuations in incoming AC voltage.

To further isolate sensitive analog circuitry, the power supply resides in a separate, precision-machined aluminum chassis designed to shield the preamplifier from electrical interference and vibration.

True Dual-Mono Architecture

The Performance 2 Preamplifier utilizes a true dual-mono design with perfectly mirrored left and right channel layouts. Each channel maintains completely independent signal paths from input to output, with left-channel connections located on one side of the rear panel and right-channel connections on the other.

Unlike many dual-mono designs that recombine channels internally, the Performance 2 preserves complete channel separation throughout the entire signal path, resulting in exceptional imaging, soundstage precision, and channel isolation.

Precision Control

The Performance 2 combines its advanced analog circuitry with a digitally controlled resistor-ladder volume control, delivering the precision and channel matching that conventional potentiometers cannot achieve. This architecture maintains signal integrity while providing exceptionally accurate volume adjustments throughout the entire range.

Operation is both intuitive and elegant, with an LCD touchscreen interface featuring dedicated control buttons and status indicators. A beautifully machined aluminum remote control provides effortless operation while matching the craftsmanship of the component itself.

A New Performance Reference

Every aspect of the Performance 2 Preamplifier reflects Constellation's most advanced engineering, from its fully balanced signal path and true dual-mono construction to its revolutionary external C-SMPS power supply. The result is extraordinary transparency, effortless dynamics, and remarkable musical realism.

Paired with the Constellation Performance 2 Stereo Amplifier or Performance 2 Monoblock Amplifiers, the Performance 2 Preamplifier becomes the centerpiece of a truly world-class audio system, delivering reference-level performance for the most demanding listeners.

Specifications

Inputs: 4 XLR stereo, 4 RCA stereo, 1 USB (for control)

Outputs: 2 XLR stereo, 2 RCA stereo, 12-volt trigger

THD+N: <0.1%, 20 Hz–20 kHz @ 10 V out, <0.001%, 20 Hz–20 kHz @ 2 V out

Signal-to-noise ratio: >108 dB, A-weighted

Input impedance (balanced): 40 kΩ

Input impedance (single-ended): 20 kΩ

Output impedance: <20 Ω

Volume control resolution: 0.5 dB from 0 dB to -90 dBFS

Preamplifier weight: 28 lbs

Power supply weight: 12 lbs

Preamplifier dimensions: 17 x 5.25 x 15.75 in (WHD)

Power supply dimensions: 17 x 2.5 x 13 in (WHD