2025 Preamplifier of the Year: Constellation Inspiration 2 Preamplifier

$15,000

Constellation Audio has revamped its entire four-series line, including the entry-level Inspiration Series. It has wisely kept the audio circuitry from the originals while substituting a new switch-mode power supply for the linear supply in its first-generation products. That audio circuitry, incidentally, is identical to that of the company’s reference products, but implemented with excellent, rather than cost-no-object, parts. The result is a preamp that retains all the Constellation hallmarks—tremendous transparency, resolution, and an expansive soundstage—while considerably improving bass performance. This new Inspiration series also bests its predecessor in speed and the ability to convey music’s rhythmic flow. One thing that Constellation has always excelled at is the feeling of transparent air in the top octave, as though a lid were taken off the soundstage. That quality has been preserved in these new electronics, which contributed to RH’s impression that the Inspiration 2 kept all the best aspects of the originals while improving the bass and dynamics. The casework, build-quality, and machined-aluminum remote control are exemplary, exuding a refined elegance, particularly in the new champagne finish. When mated with Constellation’s newly redesigned Inspiration 2 Stereo power amplifier (also greatly improved, and a Product of the Year Award winner), the new Inspiration pair makes a compelling package—and is the worthy recipient of our Product of the Year Award. (353)