Daniel J SaitDan D’Agostino Master Audio Systems has begun shipping the Progression Integrated Amplifier, the latest addition to the Progression Series.
The Progression Integrated combines the detail retrieval of the Progression Preamplifier with the power and dynamic capability of the Progression Stereo Amplifier topology. Built on a modular platform, the Progression Integrated is suitable for today’s music listener and audiophile.
The analogue base unit provides two single-ended inputs and three balanced inputs, including a home theatre pass-through. Balanced preamplifier outputs make for the convenient inclusion of one or more subwoofers into a system. The Bluetooth Remote control connectivity, first used in the Progression and Momentum HD Preamplifiers, is included as part of the base package. Bluetooth connectivity eliminates line of sight issues and extends the usable range 5x versus conventional IR remote controls.
“The Progression Integrated adds another level of performance, feature set and pricing to our product line-up,” says Bill McKiegan, President of Dan D’Agostino Master Audio Systems (DDMAS). “It provides our customers an opportunity to experience a fully featured offering within the D’Agostino product line at a more attainable price point.”
The heart and soul of the Progression Integrated is formed of fundamental DDMAS technologies, including discrete, balanced, direct-coupled circuitry married to a substantial output stage delivering 200W per channel into 8Ohms and 400W per channel into 4Ohms. A unique toroidal winding technology, first employed in the Momentum M400 amplifier, delivers greater power output from a conventionally sized transformer, enabling the Progression Integrated to be a compact amplifier for its capability.
The foundation of the Progression Integrated is a traditional line-stage integrated amplifier suitable for all analogue sources, except turntables. If a turntable is part of the current system or added in the future, an optional moving coil phono stage module can be included at the time of production or inserted at a later date.
For those listeners keen to incorporate digital playback within the same unit, an optional digital module, adding a fully differential hi-res DAC and a full suite of capability, is also available. Eliminating external connections, gain stages and additional components offers distinct sonic advantages. Coaxial, optical and USB inputs join ethernet and wireless connectivity for in-house networking and internet streaming.
As part of the digital module technologies, Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer and Spotify streaming subscription services are available. For use with appropriately encoded streaming music files, MQA decoding is standard. Customised apps for iOS devices provide easy control of music collections, streaming content and unit control. Roon Music management is also available as an alternative music management program.
The Progression Integrated is equipped with efficient heat sinks reminiscent of the flagship Relentless Monoblock Amplifier.
Two analogue meters, inspired by Swiss watch faces, function as signal level meters during music playback. When volume is adjusted, the meter needles change to volume setting indicators; after adjustments are made, the meters revert back to signal level operation. The meters also function as balance, phase and mute indicators.
The Progression Integrated Amplifier is available now with a UK RRP of £18,500 for the analogue base model; £20,750 for the analogue model with optional phono stage; £24,000 for the analogue model with optional digital module; and £26,250 for the unit equipped with the optional phono stage and digital module. The optional modules may also be added at a later date.