BOULDER 1110 PREAMPLIFIER

Further Information: Boulder is a high-end preamplifier that is considered one of the best in the world. It is known for its precision and accuracy in reproducing sound, which is unmatched by its competitors. Although some people may describe its sound as cold or sterile, this usually reflects a failure to understand the neutrality that it offers. The preamplifier does not add any flavour to the sound, so it's up to you to fine-tune the sound with your cables. Boulder 1110 is a product that offers a compromise-free connection to the real world of music, and it stands out for its exceptional build quality and sound performance. The unit comes with a warranty.

RRP $40900

THE ABSOLUTE SOUND

As for sound quality, Rich Maez’s comments may explain why I emphasized the word “voicing” over “neutrality” at the start of this review. I said earlier that the Boulder 1110 preamp and 1160 power amplifier have exceptional detail and transparency, exceptional air and “live” dynamics, tight but powerful and lifelike bass, and a broad soundstage with equally excellent width and depth. These words were not chosen casually in regard to either unit. Both preamp and amp produce an exceptionally open and detailed sound, and not by emphasizing the upper midrange or treble. You hear detail in the lower midrange and upper bass as well, and there is no hardening of the presentation—which is often the case in units that initially seem to have lots of detail but later prove to have too much upper-octave energy.

Transients and dynamics are also exceptionally revealing, and imaging is as well defined and natural in size and depth as the recording permits. It is the power, definition, and control provided by the 1160 power amp that does most to keep even truly high-level dynamics and transients so well defined—both in massive orchestral works and really demanding electronic music and rock—but the 1110 preamplifier is also a key enabler, and its resolution of really low-level information and dynamics is a pleasure to hear. It also provides an exceptional sense of musical life and reveals the character of the venue on good, natural, live stereo recordings. This combination of features may help explain why the soundstage manages to be both wide and lifelike, rather than wide at a slight cost in musical energy and life. It also, however, helps highlight the contrast between a good recording and an overmixed, over-processed one.