GOLDMUND TELOS 590 NEXTGEN II
At the high-end of hi-fi, the whole concept of an integrated amplifier can be considered by audiophiles as a compromise, allowing the convenience of single-box construction to outweigh the benefits of separate enclosures in keeping apart the heavyweight power amplification from the more delicate signal paths required in the switching circuits of the preamplifier. Power supplies are also routinely separated from the main boxes, and of course when hi-fi entered the digital age, the fear of potential interference from ultra-high-frequency operations within digital-to-analogue conversion saw audiophiles keep DACs separate as well.
All of which combines to make the idea of an integrated amplifier together with a DAC and all its power supplies inside one chassis seem the epitome of one-box practicality over the more moral pursuits of audio perfection.
And that makes it rather surprising that the Goldmund Telos 590 Nextgen II integrated amplifier should exist at all.
“We never allow quality compromise,” says Goldmund’s Chairman & Founder Michel Reverchon. “‘Ostinato rigore’ [constant rigour] was Leonardo da Vinci’s motto; it is also ours. With unrivalled rigour, expertise and commitment, we continue dedicating ourselves to the art of producing the greatest audio experience the most demanding customers can ever dream of.”
A solidly no-compromise statement of intent, then. And yet here it is — an all-in-one integrated amplifier, pre and power combined, and with a DAC section built inside as well. Can Goldmund overcome the challenges of such a multifarious beast to maintain the company’s reputation for precision and performance?
