Audiophilepure

https://www.enjoythemusic.com/superioraudio/equipment/1224/AGD_Productions_SOLO_Limited_Edition_GaN_Power_Monoblock_Amplifier_Andante_MkII_Preamplifier_DAC_Phonostage_Music_Streamer_Review.htm

The MkII front panel is essentially unchanged, remaining simple and minimalistic, with touch-sensitive keys (no mechanical movement). The option of Apple’s handy remote is also included to manage menu functions. Additionally, the Andante now has a new ‘teaching’ mode that enables the remote with different types of controllers. A home theater bypass is now standard to enable easy integration with HT systems. The back panel configuration retains the same design of the MkI, with 3+1 analog inputs and 3 analog outputs. The third output can be customized as a subwoofer or high-pass filter output with a cut-off frequency at 120Hz (-3dB, at 6dB octave slope). All connectors are Cardas for all single-ended inputs and professional grade Neutrik for the balanced inputs. The Ethernet port has functional LEDs to monitor the communication stream over the network.

As my interests lay largely in vinyl LPs, my Kronos Sparta table remains my primary reference source, with the Esoteric K-03 available for variety. Tidal, Quobuz or sim.streaming portals are not part of my audio diet as-yet, though perhaps someday. Consequently, my primary evaluation of the Antante MkII focused on its phono stage, as well as a portal for the K-03.

As a conduit for digital listening, I ran my Esoteric K-03 both as a single box player and as a transport utilizing the Andante’s internal DAC. In both positions, digital examples retained a silky, yet highly detailed character, with wonderfully articulated transient speed throughout the dynamic spectrum. Used as a DAC, the Andante proved exceptional, demonstrating no over-emphasis of upper frequencies, stridency, or stretch. Transient strings and metallic percussion were strikingly beautiful, consistent across the frequency and dynamic spectra, devoid of any sense of artificial exploitations. There was a tangible, organic presence about the lower frequencies, albeit slightly less so than when the K-03 was used as a single unit player. Nevertheless, firm, well-fleshed, and true to character.