ALEF Duet-SE (by Delta Sigma)

Rated “5 stars” (highest) on ALL sonic attributes!

Review excerpts (translated)

Listening: “The Duet SE received for the test was configured “standard” to be used with a majority of speakers under typical conditions. Knowing that the manufacturer is able to achieve higher performance with available options, this “standard” model is one of the most accurate electronic we ever heard between our ears.”

“The variety of tonal colors contributes to an amazing realism of the reproduction, exacerbated by the use of the Delta Sigma power cable “Energia”, which is essential. It provides so much information in terms of analytical and harmonic details (atmospheres, aftermath of notes, etc) that it would be a pity to use just the basic AC cable supplied with the amplifier.”

Dynamic: “The Alef deploys tremendous energy on transients and we easily hear this. The magnitude of a contrabass line played at high level gives a real sense of presence in the room. The touch of chords are clear and clean, the sound is accurately articulated - there is no excess exaggeration with the big resonant percussion and showcases the Alef’s sovereign control in the lower octaves. On drums as well as on timbale, we feel precisely and distinctly the emitted sound impulse at any note attack followed by the skin vibrations.”

“The dynamics of this amplifier is evenly distributed on all audio bandwiths and no part of the spectrum seems emphasized. The track “Trittico” by Vaclav Nelhybel is rich in brass and percussion and is rendered with all the necessary spectacularity. The partition for brass is a voluntarily shiny interpretation analyzed by the Alef in an incisive and powerful way.”

Soundstage: “A lot of credibility in soundstage message from this Italian stereo block. It is true that, with such timbral qualities and a dynamic without compressions, one could be expected a scrupulous analysis of the musical signal, favorable to a very realistic sound stage. It is therefore the case here as proportions are virtually draw in space and creates a tangible holographic illusion with a very precise positioning of soundstage. Reproduction intelligibility is never taken in default, the Alef contributes to a lifelike singing & melodic reproduction.”

Transparency: “This amplifier offers a very pure listening, very neutral listening experience due in part to the ultrawide bandwidth – on paper and also subjectively. Very powerful male voice & delicate female voice often suggest that of a triode - sometimes approaching the absolute very best with accurate voice without paralysis.”

Conclusion: “Wonderful exercise of style this amplifier ALEF Duet-SE (by Delta Sigma). Starting from a proprietary circuitry that can be tuned, if necessary to the need and wishes of each owner, the manufacturer introduces a device capable to satisfy all situations, offering a clear, precise and defined reproduction from the extreme bass to the extreme high."

"The amplifier is able to play loud, very loud, without any audible sign of stress, or to distill a low level, delicate melody in Class-A. It can do everything, and does it well. The price is relatively high, but it benefits of custom, handmade manufacturing and of “sur mesure” concept - unique in the world."

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