HiFlight
Headphoneus Supremus
While I probably own more amplifiers that I have need for, both desktop and portable, I am always on the lookout for new or innovative products
that do well their intended purpose, namely reproducing music at the output that mirrors that which is presented to the input.
Some time back, I happened across a single review of the Andante, manufactured by Scherzo Audio, located in Kissimmee, Florida. The review was quite positive, so I visited the company website to gain further information. There was not a great deal of technical information to be found on the website, other than the fact that it is powered by SLA rechargeable batteries with a play time of approximately 60 hours and the normal specifications commonly found in amplifier listings.
An interesting bit of information that caught my eye was that the Andante is DC-coupled and there are no capacitors at the input of the amp; this should result in excellent low-frequency response.
While spending some quality time pursuing one of my favorite pastimes, (perusing the Head-Fi classified threads), I happened to spot an Andante listed for sale. After exchanging a few emails and PMs with the owner, the amplifier became mine and shortly thereafter, appeared at my doorstep.
I have since spent considerable time auditioning this unique amplifier, using a variety of music genres and many headphones of differing impedances and sensitivities.
I can say at the outset that the Andante has exceeded my expectations in every way: quality of construction, size, faithful reproduction of all types of music; vocal, instrumental, classical, rock...it handles them all with grace and aplomb, performing well above its price point. For those who consider this an important consideration, the amplifier as well as the components used therein are manufactured in the USA!
The first and most obvious impression at first listen was how full and rich this amplifier sounded. Bass is almost palpable, effortlessly reaching the lowest registers of the recording. It is not blooming or thumping, just full, lifelike deep bass. This is, undoubtedly the result of the direct-coupled design.
There is no smearing of instruments and timing is excellent. Midrange frequencies are uncolored and high-frequency detail and harmonics in such instruments as triangles, piccolo, violins, etc. are reproduced in a most realistic manner but without sibilance. One caveat is that any shortcomings in your recordings will also be faithfully reproduced! This is a revealing but not overly analytical amplifier.
As can be expected from an "off-the-grid" amplifier, with no input signal, there is an absolute lack of hum or noise, even at full volume. In this respect, the amplifier is similar in function to my Redwine Audio Signature 30.2. The background is totally and utterly black.
While the Andante was designed for 32 ohm impedance phones, it has been able to handle all of my phones with aplomb, even my HE-5LE's, which have quite a low sensitivity. Gain is fixed at 10.5 but a higher gain is available on request. As the amplifier is DC-coupled, any input device should be checked for excessive DC offset. Even when running at very high settings on the volume control, there was no evidence of strain or distortion.
I have exchanged several emails with the builder, as I had a number of questions that were not addressed in the Scherzo Audio website. Some of the details are as follows: The SLA batteries are of a high quality, similar to those used in medical devices, etc. They have an estimated life of approximately 5 years, but are not designed to be user replaceable. The L-R amplifier modules are potted and are of discrete components. This is not an opamp-based amplifier.
The batteries are maintained by a sophisticated battery-management circuit which warns of low battery charge, and will enable the amplifier to enter a suspended state if battery voltage decreases to 11 volts. The amplifier can be operated while recharging, if desired.
It is not my intent to write a full and detailed review, but rather to present my first impressions so as to bring this somewhat obscure, but very high-quality amplifier to the attention of the Head-Fi community. Please note the fact that I am in no way affiliated with Scherzo Audio, but rather a very satisfied owner of the Andante.
While not a true portable, the lack of an AC input allows the Andante to serve as an ideal movable desktop or bedside amplifier. The weight of about 2 lbs and the small non-skid feet are more than adequate to keep the amplifier securely in place, even with cables and headphones attached.
The Andante is available from either the Scherzo Audio website or the builders AudioGon listing. Price is $390.00, 3 year warranty.
For additional information:
www.scherzoaudio.com
Email: info@scherzoaudio.com
Ron