Lewis CaliburnNew from Dan D’Agostino Master Audio Systems is the Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier, which the manufacturer claims achieves a level of performance “never before possible in an integrated amplifier”.
Combining the front-end technology from the Momentum HD Preamplifier and the power section of the Momentum S250 MxV Stereo Amplifier, it delivers Momentum Series performance in a compact framework only hinting at the advanced circuitry within.
Employing a configurable, modular design, the core line stage section can be augmented to include a digital streaming and/or a phono stage module.
Benefiting from extensive development previously applied to the Momentum Series separate components, the Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier executes on the potential that an integrated solution offers.
The Momentum MxV integrated Amplifier is a modular design that is configurable to a listener’s preferences. The core line stage preamplifier section can be augmented to include a digital streaming and/or a phono stage module. When fully equipped, the Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier topology is a seamless circuit working as one from input to output. Each internal section is highly specialised but knowing the exact complement of power supply, control, and audio circuitry being used together, affords engineering a vision of the system that is typically not possible.
“Our engineering team has taken the inherent benefits of an integrated design and elevated it to a new level of sonic performance,” says Bill McKiegan, President of Dan D’Agostino Master Audio Systems. “We’ve incorporated key circuitry elements from the Momentum HD Preamplifier, Momentum MxV Stereo Amplifier, and Relentless models resulting in a listening experience that truly sets a new standard for integrated amplifier sound quality.”
The backbone is a new ultra-quiet 2,000VA linear transformer. Surprisingly small for its capability, this engine drives a nearly 60,000ⲙF capacitor bank resulting in 250/500/1,000W power output into 8/4/2Ω speaker loads. Internal circuitry filters RF noise from the AC powerline and compensates for asymmetric power waveforms and DC on the mains.
The scope of the Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier design requires the use of two separate chassis – a dedicated audio chassis and a separate power supply. The two chassis interlock through special mechanisms in the mounting feet of each chassis.
A total of 30 pin interlocking 30-amp, gold plated connectors eliminate wiring normally used for these applications and the associated anomalies that can occur. This 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.
Six individual left and right circuit boards make up the input, volume control and output sections. The core topologies have been appropriated from the Momentum HD Preamplifier including an innovative FET-based input stage.
The distinct advantage of an integrated amplifier is the direct connection of the preamplifier stage to the amplifier input section. This pure path eliminates connector and cable anomalies that potentially impact electrical and sonic performance. Critical to the new circuit are the bipolar transistors powering the front end of the amplifier – these wider bandwidth, higher power components extend low and high frequency performance with reduced distortion in both frequency extremes. Energising the driver stage is a new bias stability circuit providing an almost 50% increase in operating bias.
With the new MxV circuit topology and our unique Copper/Aluminum thermal engine heatsink, heat issues are not a practical concern in the Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier.
The new bias scheme ensures bias consistency, preventing excessive temperatures even under the greatest demand. Additional power transistors in the output stage reduce the workload for each individual device, ensuring the entire output section works more efficiently.
The final output stage features new output transistors that were originally sourced for the flagship Relentless Monoblock Amplifier. A total of 28 high speed, high-output transistors are used in the Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier, with each transistor mounted 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, 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.
An optional digital module adds connectivity for legacy sources, both source and host USB functionality, and premier streaming functionality. Field upgradeable, the digital module adds S/PDIF coaxial, optical and USB-A for legacy digital components and Ethernet and Wi-Fi for network-based music.
A dedicated iOS D’Agostino DSM app provides built-in Tidal, Qobuz, MQA decoding, plus complete unit control. PCM signals up to 32-bit/192kHz and DSD up to DSD1024 are supported.
The optional phono module adds vinyl playback capability to the Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier. Low output moving coil cartridges are supported with over 60dB of gain and loading options from 100-47k.
Available in silver, black, or custom painted finishes, every Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier is hand-built and individually tested in D’Agostino’s Arizona factory.
The UK RRP is £73,998 inc. VAT, while the digital and phono modules add £11,398 and £5,698 to the price, respectively.
As with all Dan D’Agostino Master Audio Systems products, the Momentum MxV Integrated Amplifier is brought to the UK by Absolute Sounds.