Advanced, No-Compromise Preamp from Dan D'Agostino
he new Relentless preamplifier ($149,500) from Dan D’Agostino Master Audio Systems is a three-chassis design -- a dedicated audio chassis for each channel and a separate power supply centered between the two -- that's absolutely packed with original thinking on the design and function of a high-end preamp. For instance, the Relentless's three chassis interlock via 30-pin, 20-amp, gold-plated connectors that eliminate the wiring normally used. This layout isolates the audio signal both physically and electrically from the power and digital control sections, offering additional room to maximize both the power supply and audio circuitry. The Relentless boasts an audio circuit that uses no negative feedback and a signal path that is fully complementary, direct coupled, and balanced from input to output, achieving a frequency response flat to 120kHz. Analog and digital circuit elements, including ground planes, are fully isolated from each other. Where necessary, digital control signals are optically coupled to analog circuits, and signal switching relays are hermetically sealed and use gold-plated contacts. All signal gain comes in the current domain via proprietary multiple-output current mirrors. The preamp's four-layer circuit boards reduce distortion and propagation levels as compared to the more common two-layer boards. The unit's pair of volume controls are constructed from 14 separate metal components that offer smooth response and control of the preamp's military-grade, high-linearity solid-state switches and discrete precision resistors. The bandwidth and transient response of the Relentless are said to be completely unaffected by the volume setting. The volume settings are displayed via the Swiss-watch-inspired volume wands or displayed numerically, from 0 to 99. The Relentless is ready for two-source/two-zone use, simultaneously controlling the switching and volume of two sources in two separate rooms or zones. The Relentless is the first D’Agostino preamplifier to offer an optional digital streaming module ($14,950), which offers connectivity for legacy digital sources, USB functionality, and streaming capability. The DSM adds S/PDIF coaxial, optical, USB-A, and RJ-45 and Wi-Fi inputs. Customized apps for iOS devices provide control of music collections, streaming content, and unit control. Subscription streaming services Tidal, Qobuz, and Spotify are native within the app. MQA decoding is standard, and Roon is also available as an alternative music management program. The Relentless's machined-aluminum-and-copper touchpad
remote control offers Bluetooth Six technology to extend the usable range and eliminate
line-of-sight issues. Bidirectional remote functionality means that all adjustments made
on the Relentless's front panel transfer to the remote control’s display screen,
including input, volume, and balance. |
