MASTERSOUND HISTORY
Since 1994, MastersounD Amplifiers has been crafting top-tier audio products renowned for their unparalleled quality. The mission has been clear from the outset: to create the epitome of perfection—an audio product that seamlessly marries timeless aesthetics with outstanding sonic reproduction.
Within the confines of its laboratory in Arcugnano, Italy, MastersounD’s seasoned artisans meticulously craft each amplifier with unwavering attention to detail. This process involves carefully selecting and assembling the finest components, resulting in distinctive handcrafted masterpieces designed to stand the test of time.
An integral aspect of crafting exceptional valve amplifiers lies in producing the output transformer, the beating heart of any amplifier. MastersounD’s output transformers are individually hand-wound using an in-house mechanical winding machine. This process, rooted in the passion, experience, and research of the late Cesare Sanavio, has been elevated to new heights by his son, Luciano Sanavio. Luciano has preserved this tradition and pioneered an exclusive transformer construction technique unique to MastersounD amplifiers.
ITALIAN STYLE IN CLASS ”A”
WE ARE MASTERSOUND
Cesare Sanavio was the founder and mastermind behind all key elements, designing and producing world-class output transformers that laid the foundation for the creation of MastersounD Amplifiers.
Lorenzo Sanavio (now retired but still a co-owner), with his passion and vision, successfully introduced MastersounD Amplifiers to a global audience. His efforts enabled Luciano to focus wholeheartedly on research and design.
Luciano Sanavio (Lead Designer and Production Manager) continues to achieve remarkable results, driven by his natural curiosity to push boundaries and the expertise gained during his engineering studies.
Antonio Ferro, the latest addition to the team, serves as the new CEO and Sales Manager. With his leadership, Antonio has been forging exciting new partnerships worldwide, further elevating the brand’s global presence.
ANTONIO FERRO, CEO & SALES
LUCIANO SANAVIO, LEAD DESIGN & PRODUCTION
A Rich Legacy of Craftsmanship
At the heart of MastersounD’s amplifiers lies a commitment to quality and craftsmanship that dates back to the 1950s. The company’s origins trace back to Cesare Sanavio, an electronics technician whose pioneering work on output transformers revolutionised valve amplification. Today, MastersounD’s output transformers, still hand-wound on mechanical machines, remain central to the company’s signature sound. Cesare’s son, Luciano Sanavio, continues this legacy, refining the transformer design with innovative techniques that ensure optimal sound reproduction and minimal stress on the valves.
Each amplifier is handcrafted by skilled artisans who meticulously select the finest components. Built from scratch, every detail adheres to the company’s exacting standards. The production process is defined by precision, with machines, tools, and workspaces designed to uphold the utmost quality. MastersounD’s dedication to craftsmanship is evident in the meticulous attention to detail that permeates every corner of its factory.
Innovating the Output Transformer
The output transformer is essential to valve amplification, and MastersounD has made groundbreaking advances in this field. Through years of research and experimentation, the company has developed an exclusive transformer design that enhances amplifier performance. By using thicker wire and fewer turns, MastersounD achieves greater efficiency and speed, reducing stress on the valves and extending their lifespan. Each transformer is custom-made for its amplifier, ensuring optimal performance.
Luciano Sanavio continues to innovate, particularly with the PF 100 amplifier, which incorporates Litz wire—a specialised wire designed to minimise energy losses at high frequencies—for enhanced performance. Despite these advancements, Luciano remains committed to simplicity in design, focusing on creating products that deliver remarkable speed, control, and clarity, even with low-power amplifiers.
MastersounD’s Philosophy: Quality Over Trends
MastersounD’s philosophy is rooted in performance. The company eschews fleeting audiophile trends, prioritising technical excellence to achieve authentic, natural sound reproduction. The Sanavio family’s commitment to refining output transformer design has remained central to the brand’s success. Despite the rapid evolution of electronics, MastersounD stays true to its artisanal origins, continuously innovating without compromising its craftsmanship.
Under Antonio Ferro’s leadership, MastersounD has refined its commercial and communication strategies, yet its core values remain unchanged. The company continues to craft amplifiers that embody the dedication and expertise of its artisans, ensuring each product stands as a timeless piece of audio engineering.
A Vision for the Future
As MastersounD approaches its 30th anniversary, Luciano Sanavio remains steadfast in his dedication to pushing the boundaries of audio technology. With countless new ideas and projects in development, the company shows no signs of slowing down. Its success is not measured by the ambition to become a global name but by the relentless pursuit of sonic excellence. MastersounD is driven by a singular goal: to create amplifiers that deliver uncompromising performance, ensuring every listener experiences sound in its purest form.