Dan D’Agostino Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier
Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems unveiled the modular Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier, combining the skills of its Momentum HD preamplifier and Momentum MxV power amplifier.
The Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier by Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems benefits from extensive development previously applied to the Momentum Series separate components. The Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier is a modular design configurable to your requirements, with the core line stage preamplifier section able to accept a digital streaming and/or a phonostage module.
When fully equipped, the result, says Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems, is "a seamless circuit working as one from input to output", delivering Momentum Series performance in a compact framework only hinting at the advanced circuitry within. This is achieved by combining the front-end technology from the Momentum HD Preamplifier and the power section of the Momentum MxV amplifier.
Each internal section is highly specialised. However, the company states that knowing the exact complement of power supply, control, and audio circuitry being used together affords engineering a vision of the system that is typically impossible.
Bill McKiegan, President of Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems elaborates:
Our engineering team has taken the inherent benefits of an integrated design and elevated it to a new level of sonic performance. We've incorporated key circuitry elements from the Momentum HD preamplifier, Momentum MxV, and Relentless models resulting in a listening experience that truly sets a new standard for integrated amplifier sound quality.
The Momentum MxV Integrated amplifier consists of two separate chassis – a dedicated audio chassis and a separate power supply.
The two interlock through thirty-pin interlocking 30-amp, gold-plated connectors in the mounting feet of each chassis. This eliminates wiring customarily used for these applications and the associated anomalies that can occur. In addition, we're told that this distinctive construction isolates the audio signal completely, both physically and electrically, from the power supply section. Physical isolation offers additional room to maximise both power and audio circuitry.
POWER SUPPLY
The power supply's heart is a new "ultra-quiet" 2,000VA linear transformer. D'Agostino tells us that the unique toroidal winding technology delivers greater power output from a similarly sized conventional transformer. Surprisingly small for its capability, it drives a nearly 60,000ⲙF capacitor bank resulting in 250/500/1,000W power output into 8/4/2Ω speaker loads, respectively. Additionally, the manufacturer highlights that the internal circuitry filters RF noise from the AC powerline and compensates for asymmetric power waveforms and DC on the mains.
PRE-AMPLIFIER STAGE
Meanwhile, the preamplifier section features six individual left and right circuit boards that comprise the input, volume control, and output sections. The core topologies are said to have been appropriated from the Momentum HD Momentum Preamplifier, including the innovative FET-based input stage.
Critical to the new circuit are the bipolar transistors powering the front end of the amplifier. The brand states that these wider-bandwidth, higher-power components extend low and high-frequency performance with reduced distortion in both frequency extremes.
Furthermore, energising the driver stage is a new bias stability circuit the company says provides almost a 50% increase in operating bias as increasing Class A operation directly correlates to better sound quality. D'Agostino is confident that, thanks to the new MxV circuit topology and its unique Copper/Aluminum thermal engine heatsink, heat issues are not a practical concern for the Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier. The new bias scheme also ensures bias consistency, preventing excessive temperatures even under tremendous demand.
OUTPUT STAGE
The final output stage features new output transistors initially sourced for the flagship Relentless Monoblock Amplifier. A total of 28 high-speed, high-output transistors are used in the Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier. Each transistor mounts directly to the copper heat sinks. A capacitor/resistor network connected to the base of each transistor ensures stability even at high frequencies and with low-impedance speakers.
Additionally, the brand states that every output transistor is measured, and only devices that match the required performance specifications are included in the production of the Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier.
As with all D'Agostino models, the Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier features discrete, direct-coupled balanced circuitry, the most accurate circuit platform possible.
STREAMING & PHONO MODULE
An optional digital module opens up the Momentum MxV Integrated to hi-res digital audio streaming with support for PCM up to 32-bit/192 KHz, and DSD1024.
It also adds connectivity for legacy sources, both source and host USB functionality, and premier streaming functionality. Field upgradeable, the digital module adds SPDIF coaxial, Optical, and USB-A. There is also hardwired Ethernet and Wifi connectivity for network-based music. In addition, a dedicated iOS D'Agostino DSM app provides built-in TIDAL, Qobuz, and MQA decoding, plus complete unit control.
Finally, the optional phono module adds vinyl playback capability to the Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier, including support for low-output moving coil cartridges with over 60dB of gain and loading options from 100W-47kW.
The Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier is available to order at US$65,000 plus US$10,000 for the optional Digital Streaming Module and US$5,000 for the optional phono module.
Visit Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems for more information
Jay Garrett
StereoNET’s resident rock star, bass player, and gadget junkie. His passion for gadgets and Hi-Fi is second only to being a touring musician.
Posted in: Hi-Fi
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