D’Agostino Teases Out A New Momentum Pre “HD”
It wasn’t too long ago that we were all in a flurry about the new high end Relentless Monoblocks from famed amplifier designer Dan D’Agostino. Now stepping back into the Momentum line, a pre is on the way with a new “HD” designation.
Current owners of the Momentum Pre are allowed to upgrade, the new fancy thing does offer a main power transformer that is 33% larger than the current model along with better isolation – full breakdown after jump. It would also be hard not to mention the absolute beauty of the casework along all Dan’s work. You are no doubt paying for it within the $40k asking price, but even at this level of play the aesthetics are simply some of the best in the game, in this writers opinion at least.
Shipping dates for the new Momentum Pre are due this month, current Momentum Preamplifier owners can upgrade for $7,500 while lucky newcomers will have to shell out the previously mentioned $40,000.
“CAVE CREEK, ARIZONA, MARCH 14, 2019— Dan D’Agostino Master Audio Systems today announced the Momentum HD Preamplifier, a major upgrade to the Momentum Preamplifier. The Momentum HD Preamplifier builds on the award-winning platform of the Momentum Preamplifier. The new HD status represents the high dynamic and high definition improvements that have been achieved in this substantial upgrade. The new Momentum HD Preamplifier incorporates advancements in the power supply, audio circuitry, and control sections.
Housed in a separate chassis for maximum isolation, the Momentum HD main power transformer is 33% larger as compared to the original Momentum Preamplifier. A unique winding technology, first employed in the Momentum M400 amplifier, delivers greater power output from the same footprint. Internal circuitry filters RF noise from the AC powerline, and compensates for asymmetric power waveforms and DC on the mains.
A completely new discrete differential FET input stage features two current sources per leg and an input impedance greater than 1MOhm. This ultra-high input impedance isolates the input stage and thus the entire audio signal path from external variables.
“This new input stage was an engineering experiment that surprised us with the level of fine-grain detail and delicate musical shadings. The subtleties of voices were rendered with a lushness and richness that were simply unattainable previously”. said Chief Designer Dan D’Agostino.
Taking advantage of the increased power supply capability, the output stages are now operating at a 36% percent higher voltage. “The increased output voltage has opened up the dynamics on both the micro and macro levels.” D’Agostino continued. “The speed of the dynamic contrasts jump out on a visceral level.”
Also new is the Bluetooth technology featured in the included remote control. The Bluetooth backbone extends the range of the remote by a factor of five and eliminates line of sight limitations that are inherent in IR remote controls.
Newly designed tone and volume control circuitry increases range and precision in both circuits.
Aesthetics have also been updated with the signature copper elements being reshaped to better match the Momentum M400 and S250 amplifiers.
Existing Momentum Preamplifier owners will be able to upgrade to the new Momentum HD Preamplifier electronics enhancements preserving value in their initial purchases.
The Momentum HD Preamplifier will begin shipping in March,2019 at $40,000 USD and upgrades for original Momentum Preamplifier owners will be $7,500 USD. Standard finishes include silver or black.
For more information on Dan D’Agostino Master Audio Systems and its products, please visit dandagostino.com“