Constellation Performance 2 Stereo Amplifier

The Constellation Performance 2 Stereo and Monoblock Amplifiers represent a breathtaking evolution of their predecessors, delivering 600 watts per channel in stereo and 1,200 watts in monaural configuration. With striking large-format power meters, substantially greater output, and significant advances in engineering, the Performance 2 Series surpasses not only the original Performance amplifiers in every meaningful parameter, but also the acclaimed Reference Series that long served as Constellation's benchmark.

The Input Stage

The Line Stage Gain Module input stage utilizes hand-matched, low-noise transistors paired with a precision servo circuit that continuously corrects signal balance inconsistencies. Constellation's Direct XLR input topology removes an entire amplification stage from the signal path, reducing complexity while preserving greater transparency, resolution, and musicality throughout the Performance 2 Series.

The Power Supply

At the heart of the Performance 2 amplifiers is Constellation's revolutionary C-SMPS (Constellation Switch-Mode Power Supply), engineered to provide exceptional stability and performance. Integrated Power Factor Correction (PFC) technology delivers consistent operation across worldwide AC voltages while maintaining precise voltage and current alignment regardless of speaker load. Compared to the previous generation, available power increases by 20 percent while power supply noise is reduced by more than 20 dB compared to conventional linear designs.

The Circuit Design

The Performance 2 amplifiers employ a fully balanced architecture, utilizing separate amplifier circuits for the positive and negative halves of the audio signal. Unlike conventional balanced amplifiers that combine N-type and P-type output devices, Constellation's proprietary Balanced Bridged topology uses only carefully matched N-type transistors for both signal halves. This symmetrical approach ensures identical amplification paths, preserving even the most delicate musical detail with exceptional accuracy and coherence.

The Performance Pinnacle

Building upon Constellation's proven design philosophy, the Performance 2 amplifiers refine every critical aspect of circuit topology and execution. The combination of innovative balanced audio circuitry and the groundbreaking C-SMPS power supply delivers extraordinary dynamics, control, transparency, and realism. The result is a level of sonic performance that surpasses both the original Performance Series and the highly regarded Reference Series, offering music lovers a truly uncompromising listening experience.

Specifications

Stereo Amplifier

Inputs: 4 XLR (2 Direct), 2 RCA
Max power @ 8 Ω (0.1% THD+N, 20 Hz–20 kHz): 600 WPC
Max power @ 4 Ω (0.1% THD+N, 20 Hz–20 kHz): 1,125 WPC

Monoblock Amplifier

Inputs: 2 XLR (1 Direct), 1 RCA
Max power @ 8 Ω (0.1% THD+N, 20 Hz–20 kHz): 1,200 W
Max power @ 4 Ω (0.1% THD+N, 20 Hz–20 kHz): 2,000 W

General Specifications

Frequency response: 10 Hz–80 kHz ±0.05 dB

Gain, direct input: 12 dB

Gain, non-direct input: 25.2 dB

AC power draw, standby: <0.5 W

AC power draw, idle: 135 W

AC power draw @ max power into 8 Ω: 1,300 W

AC power draw @ max power into 4 Ω: 1,970 W

Power factor, partial power: 0.98

Power factor, full power: 1.0

Damping factor: >160

Signal-to-noise ratio, DC–90 kHz ref 1 V: >100 dB, A-weighted

Signal-to-noise ratio, DC–90 kHz ref full power: >115 dB, unweighted

Signal-to-noise ratio, DC–90 kHz ref full power: >125 dB, A-weighted

Output impedance: 0.05 Ω

Weight: 90 lbs / 40.9 kg

Dimensions (W × H × D): 18.75 × 11.25 × 22.5 in