AGD Andante MKII Preamplifier
Best all-in-one solution for audiophiles seeking high-end, compact system integration.
The AGD Andante MKII is a superior musical preamplifier, serving as a versatile hub for high-fidelity audio systems. It seamlessly integrates a preamplifier, DAC, phono stage, network input, and Bluetooth receiver into one compact chassis. This unit is recognized for its fully balanced design, stability, and responsiveness, making it an ideal match for high-end amplifiers. AGD utilizes innovative GaN technology, housed in glass tubes, to blend analog musicality with modern digital precision. Although discontinued, it represents a significant achievement in compact, high-performance audio engineering.
$12999.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
2
/ 704
#2 in Audio & Video Receivers
Price vs Category Average
+393%
Above average
Weight
26
/ lbs
Who it's for
- Listeners wanting tube-like warmth with solid-state reliability
- Design-conscious owners curating a premium high-end audio aesthetic
- Audiophiles seeking absolute sonic purity and source transparency
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing value over ultra-high-end performance
- Users requiring an all-in-one solution with integrated streaming or DACs
- System builders wanting flexibility to mix and match amplifier brands
Performance breakdown
Signal Purity
Fully balanced architecture ensures an incredibly clean and noise-free audio path.
Digital Precision
The R2R DAC delivers natural, highly detailed conversion for modern digital sources.
Build Integrity
Exceptional construction quality provides a robust foundation for high-end audio systems.
System Versatility
Combines phono, network, and DAC stages into one remarkably compact chassis.
Analog Musicality
Innovative GaN technology bridges the gap between digital accuracy and analog warmth.
Future Readiness
Modular internal design allows for meaningful hardware upgrades over time.
Key Specs
Weight
26 lbs
Dimensions
22 × 18 × 9 in
Analog Inputs
4 (Phono Included)
Analog Outputs
3
DAC
R2R DAC 32bit 384kHz
Circuit Type
Solid State
Build Quality
Exceptionally well made
Wireless Connectivity
Bluetooth
Features
- Fully balanced design for pristine audio.
- Integrated DAC, phono, and network inputs.
- Compact footprint, high stability.
- Includes Bluetooth receiver.
- Modular design for future upgrades.
- Voicing optimized for AGD amplifiers.
- Multiple input/output options.
What customers say
The AGD Andante MKII Preamplifier is widely regarded as a reference component due to its exceptional transparency and sonic purity. Users consistently emphasize its ability to create a vast, holographic soundstage with precise imaging, allowing source material to fully emerge. A key theme is the unit's dynamic control, handling complex music effortlessly. Build quality is universally praised as robust and elegant, matching its high-end positioning. While premium priced, owners feel this state-of-the-art component significantly elevates their entire audio system, delivering a profoundly musical and accurate listening experience that establishes a new benchmark in its class.
Know before you buy
A fully balanced design means the internal circuitry processes both the positive and negative phases of the audio signal separately. This approach significantly reduces noise and interference, resulting in a cleaner, more precise soundstage.
Yes, the Andante MKII features an integrated phono stage among its four analog inputs. This allows you to connect your turntable directly without needing an external phono preamp.
The R2R DAC architecture is prized for its ability to deliver a more natural, organic sound compared to the typical delta-sigma chips found in most consumer gear. It excels at preserving the subtle textures and nuances of high-resolution digital files.
While it is voiced specifically to complement AGD’s own amplifiers, the Andante MKII is a versatile unit that works well with a wide range of high-end power amplifiers. Its multiple input and output options provide the flexibility needed for most high-fidelity setups.
The modular architecture allows for internal components to be updated or replaced as technology evolves. This design choice helps extend the lifespan of the unit, ensuring it remains relevant even as digital standards change.
The Bluetooth receiver is included as a convenience feature for casual listening or streaming from mobile devices. While it offers easy connectivity, the unit’s internal R2R DAC and balanced circuitry are designed to provide the best performance when using the wired network or analog inputs.
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$12999