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Zesto Audio Andros Deluxe II Phonostage
Design Philosophy
The Andros Deluxe Phonostage is created from taking the very best attributes from both the Andros 1.2 Phonostage and the Andros Tessera Phonostage while maintaining its own unique sonic personality. We wanted the same footprint as the Andros 1.2 and many of the internal features of the Tessera.
What’s Unique?
A unique feature of the Andros Deluxe is the use of the 12DW7 tubes in the output circuit. The 12DW7 tube is half a 12AX7 and half a 12AU7. We use the 12AU7 half to drive the output transformers because it is high current and low noise, thus allowing for the most frequently requested feature, a true floating ground balanced output.
It’s Quiet, Really!
The extensive grounding scheme, the circuit design and steel enclosure all play a significant role in the noise reduction of the phonostage, so you can hear the quietest passages in your music.
Circuit Topology
The heart of the design is the new main circuit incorporating the same large beefy MC step-up transformers as the Tèssera, as well as an entirely new output circuit to drive the balanced output transformers. The Andros Deluxe is built with a passion for Analog, designed with 100% tube circuitry and no solid state devices anywhere in the signal path.
Why Andros?
Andros is a Greek island and the home of George’s grandmother’s family. Andros is now the name of the Zesto phonostage family.
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Zesto Audio Andros Deluxe II Phonostage — tube clarity with modern flexibility
The Zesto Audio Andros Deluxe II is a hand-built, all-tube phono stage that pairs vintage warmth with modern control, delivering remarkable transparency and low noise via transformer-balanced outputs and toroidal power supplies. Sonically it offers a lush midrange, articulate bass foundation and clean, detailed treble with fast transient attack and wide, enveloping soundstaging. Reviewers singled out its dynamics, imaging and the ability to reveal ambient groove information while remaining musical and engaging (Jeff Sirody, Robert H. Levi). Built in the USA with gold-plated connectors, selectable MC/MM gain and extensive MC loading, the Andros Deluxe II suits collectors who run multiple cartridges or demand low-noise, high-resolution vinyl playback. Its feature set and measured performance make it a strong contender in its price tier.
Pros
- Exceptionally low noise and black backgrounds that expose microdetail and ambience.
- Comprehensive cartridge compatibility with on-the-fly, multi-step MC loading and switchable MM/MC gain.
- Lively dynamics and precise transient speed that deliver punch and rhythmic drive.
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Cons
- Slight emphasis in the upper mid/lower-treble can make some recordings sound a touch forward.
- Very wide, forward soundstaging may reduce pinpoint instrument placement on intimate chamber recordings.
Transparency
93/100
Multiple reviewers highlighted an exceptionally low noise floor and "black" backgrounds (The Absolute Sound: "super-quiet"; Positive Feedback: "ultra-black background"; SoundStage Solo: "low noise floor" and new ESP supply). The Andros' transformer-balanced outputs, mu-metal shielding and dedicated power supplies were credited with reducing hum and interference, and reviewers reported excellent RIAA accuracy (spec'd ±0.5 dB). No reviewer reported audible hum or hiss, so the unit earns a very high transparency score appropriate for an MC-capable tube design.
Sound Quality
94/100
Across reviews the Andros was described as highly dynamic and punchy: TAS said "very dynamic," Positive Feedback cited "more punch" and "powerhouse dynamics," and HiFi News praised speed and attack. The updated ESP supply was noted to increase headroom and make quiet passages quieter and loud passages more impactful (Positive Feedback, SoundStage Solo). The result is lively, engaging reproduction with strong transient response.
Cartridge Compatibility
94/100
The Deluxe II supports both MM and MC with extensive MC loading (10/12-position settings up to 1000Ω) and two gain settings (MC 63/68 dB, MM 45/50 dB), plus balanced XLR and RCA MC inputs and independent ground-lift switches. Reviewers praised on-the-fly loading adjustment and the flexibility to match a wide range of cartridges (SoundStage Solo: selectable MC loads; Positive Feedback: independent ground switches). This full-featured MM/MC implementation and ease of adjustment justify a top-tier compatibility score.
Build Quality
92/100
Hand-built in the USA with toroidal power supplies, gold-plated connectors, ceramic tube sockets and mu-metal shielding for the transformers, reviewers noted solid construction and thoughtful engineering (SoundStage Solo, Positive Feedback). The visible tube layout and 50-hour factory burn-in were praised for ensuring excellent out-of-box performance. The chassis and component choices reflect careful workmanship and attention to low-noise design.
Value for Money
92/100
While not inexpensive (~$7–8.3k quoted in reviews/specs), reviewers repeatedly described the Andros as high-value or even a bargain for its performance (SoundStage Solo: "very competitively priced... maybe even a bargain"; Positive Feedback: "high-value"; The Absolute Sound: "attractive price"). Given the feature set, build quality and sonic performance in its class, reviewers judged the price justified, earning a strong value score.
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