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It’s well possible that certain single-ended triode amp are endowed with even greater – er, presentational gifts. But for some tastes those could be too much, i.e. entail a bloated midband aura. Regardless, such amps suffer power restrictions which limit the choice of copasetic speakers as well as music material. Though the Absolute Tune is no muscle amp, my Ascendo System F was perfectly served and that really is no study in high efficiency.
So perhaps that’s what it should say on the Absolute Tune’s business card – intensity of musical expressiveness via plasticity and soundstaging many hope to obtain from valve designs; plus transistor virtues of power and stability. Such sonic hybrids have to come off first. It’s far from a given. My separates also sport valves in the preamplifier for this type of plasticity but simply don't do it to the extent of the Einstein. Here the latter plays in a higher league.
Einstein’s Absolute Tune Limited integrated is a sonic all’rounder with a special talent. All’rounder applies to not having any particular weakness or excess though tonality veers slightly toward warmth and the same money can buy more bass might and macrodynamic fortitude elsewhere. Those are relevant tendencies but no real flaws. The special virtue consists of a truly fabulous illusion of physicality whereby musicians appear in the room. These sonic images grow bodies which particularly in the vocal band can be stupefying enough to get the nod even from diehard triode fanatics. Such natural charm is rare. Musical connoisseurs with the requisite change should really audition Einstein’s Absolute Tune.
Psych profile:
Slightly warm tonality since the upper bass/lower mid transition leans toward the fulsome whilst the upper registers are more long-term cautious than sparkling bright.
The bass is potent and full and raw extension is fine but more power and pressure are possible. Bass textures are semi-sec, i.e. with grip but not bone dry.
Mid and treble bands integrate seamlessly for natural unity. Free from harshness and veils. Good resolution.
Nicely dynamic particularly in the micro realm, with 'well-balanced' timing that’s neither excessively impulsive nor soft and loose. Rhythm and flow are well matched.
The virtual stage projects frontally which is pleasantly involving and different from reserved/distanced. Avoids unpleasant forwardness however. Realistic width and depth.
Precise rendering of the musical action. The sensation of tacitness and 3D is very highly developed. Voices and instruments flesh out holistically without blurring or being separated in an artificially edgy fashion.
The Einstein also manages the trick of letting these embodied ‘sound sculptures’ breathe dynamically which merely heightens the seductive effect of their musical presence. First rate.
Facts:
Concept: Integrated amplifier with hybrid tube/transistor circuitry
Dimensions & weight: 43 x 40 x 16cm (WxDxH), 18kg
Trim: Chrome/black acrylic
I/O ports: 5 RCA inputs, 1 rec out, one pair of speaker terminals per channel
Idle power consumption: ca. 100 watts
Other: Einstein remote and right-angle power cord included
