Goldmund Telos 690

Goldmund Telos 690 Integrated Stereo Amplifier

The Goldmund Telos 690 is a Swiss-made integrated stereo amplifier that combines preamplifier, power amplifier, and high-resolution DAC in a single chassis. Delivering 250 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 320 watts into 4 ohms through Goldmund's proprietary Telos® Class A/B amplification technology, it represents the company's flagship integrated amplifier, designed for audiophiles seeking exceptional performance in a simplified system configuration.

Position in the Goldmund Lineup

The Telos 690 sits at the top of Goldmund's integrated amplifier range, positioned above the newer Telos 670. It succeeds the Telos 590 Next Gen, offering increased power output (250W versus 215W per channel) along with enhanced digital connectivity. For listeners who prefer the convenience of a single-chassis solution over separate preamplifier and power amplifier components, the Telos 690 delivers Goldmund's signature sound quality without compromise. The amplifier bridges traditional high-fidelity audio with modern digital sources, making it suitable for both dedicated listening rooms and contemporary living spaces.

Telos® Amplification Technology

At the core of the Telos 690 lies Goldmund's proprietary Telos® amplification technology, first introduced in the 1990s and continuously refined since. This Class A/B circuit architecture employs highly linear analog components combined with an ultra-wide bandwidth design extending from DC to at least 3MHz. This approach preserves phase relationships and minimizes time and intermodulation distortions within the audible range, ensuring the original signal's character remains intact throughout amplification.

Speaker Control and Driver Management

Telos® amplifiers are engineered for precise control over speaker drivers, delivering clean power while preventing unwanted noise that can compromise signal integrity. The design achieves a damping factor of 600 at 1kHz into 8 ohms, with very low output impedance that enhances micro-dynamics and prevents woofer overshoot during high-power conditions. This is particularly critical in low-frequency reproduction, where greater driver excursion increases the risk of distortion. The result is controlled, articulate bass without the boomy or loose characteristics that can plague less capable amplifiers.

Power Supply Architecture

The Telos 690 incorporates a substantial power supply featuring dual 350VA toroidal transformers and a massive 46,000μF capacitor bank. This combination ensures enhanced dynamics, response, and clarity while providing the current reserves necessary to drive demanding loudspeakers to high levels. The redesigned power supply board delivers greater energy reserves than previous generations, enabling smooth transient response between low and high volume levels and precise handling of rapid dynamic changes in the music.

Built-in Alizé Digital-to-Analog Converter

The Telos 690 features Goldmund's Alizé DAC circuitry, providing enhanced coupling with the preamplifier section. The USB Audio Class 2.0 input supports PCM signals up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD64/DSD128, operating driverless on Mac OS X and Linux systems. Additional digital inputs include Toslink optical and coaxial S/PDIF connections, enabling connectivity with CD transports, streaming devices, and other digital sources. Reviewers have noted that the internal DAC performs well enough that only truly high-end external converters would offer meaningful improvement.

Circuit Design and Signal Integrity

The amplifier employs separate input and output stages that prevent feedback between high and low current circuits. This isolation, combined with optimization of linearity at every amplification stage, virtually eliminates harmonic and intermodulation distortions. The Telos 690 achieves THD+N below 0.08% across the audio band and IMD below 0.02%, with an output noise floor under 10μV, specifications that ensure transparent, detailed sound reproduction whether playing at low volumes or concert levels.

Connectivity

The rear panel provides five analog RCA inputs for turntables (with external phono stage), CD players, and other line-level sources. The three digital inputs (USB Type B, Toslink optical, and coaxial S/PDIF) accommodate modern streaming sources and digital transports. Speaker connections use substantial binding posts, and RS232 control enables integration into automated home systems. The straightforward connectivity reflects Goldmund's focus on signal purity over feature proliferation; notably, there are no phono inputs, A/B speaker switching, or headphone outputs.

Mechanical Design and Construction

The Telos 690's chassis exemplifies Goldmund's belief that mechanical design directly impacts sonic performance. The ultra-thick enclosure is crafted from micro-blasted aluminum alloy, resulting in a smooth, silk-like finish. Seamless assembly with no visible joints and minimal external screws ensures both structural integrity and visual elegance. The upgraded panel structure reinforces the enclosure while enhancing mechanical grounding and vibration dispersion capabilities.

Vibration Management

Goldmund's signature Conic Feet, designed according to their Mechanical Grounding™ principles, evacuate unwanted vibrations to the ground, preventing resonance buildup that could otherwise color the sound. The chassis design addresses critical technical requirements including heat dissipation, mechanical grounding, and electromagnetic shielding, ensuring the internal electronics operate in an optimal environment.

Critical Reception

The Telos 690 has received strong reviews from the audio press. What Hi-Fi? described it as "one of the finest integrated amplifiers we have heard," praising its clean, precise, and detailed sound. The publication noted that the amplifier excels in tonality, transparency, detail resolution, stereo imaging, and dynamic expression, ultimately concluding that it "allows the music to shine" brilliantly.

Packaging and Delivery

Each Telos 690 ships in a custom-designed flight case that ensures secure transportation and provides convenient storage. This attention to the complete ownership experience reflects Goldmund's commitment to protecting the significant investment the amplifier represents.

Finish Options

The Telos 690 is available in Goldmund's signature Silver Gray finish as standard. A Black Matte finish is available as a custom option for those seeking an alternative aesthetic.

Summary

The Goldmund Telos 690 represents a statement piece for audiophiles who demand exceptional performance from a single-chassis solution. With its Telos® amplification technology, robust dual-transformer power supply, comprehensive digital connectivity, and meticulous Swiss construction, it offers a complete high-end amplification solution that bridges traditional analog excellence with modern digital convenience. For those seeking Goldmund's legendary transparency, dynamics, and control without the complexity of separate components, the Telos 690 delivers an uncompromising listening experience.