Pre/Power Amplifiers

All Constellation Audio’s amplifiers are based on a proprietary output stage – an elegant module that’s configured in parallel balanced and bridged combinations with larger/multiple power supplies in its beefier offerings. Indeed, this Taurus power amplifier uses the same modules seen in the Inspiration [HFN Jul ’15] but with two superior power supplies. In effect, it’s a dual-mono stereo chassis. Each Taurus Stereo has an RCA and two balanced (XLR) inputs, the latter including Constellation’s ‘Direct’ mode which omits one of its proprietary J-FET line stage modules. With less less voltage gain available to the Taurus, the higher 25V output capacity of the Pictor preamp comes into play [see Lab Report]. So the overall pre/power voltage gain remains the same and there’s no change in the Taurus’s maximum power output. However, as I’ve said before, it’s likely that the relative sensitivity of the loudspeakers and analogue output level of the source will play a big role in determining which mode is preferred. PM