D’AGOSTINO RELENTLESS PREAMPLIFIER

Dan D’Agostino Master Audio Systems has released the Relentless Preamplifier, designed to drive a pair of Relentless Mono amplifiers, a preamplifier so complex that its circuitry is spread across three different chassis that connect together via 30-pin interlocking 20-amp, gold plated connectors. “The three-chassis construction isolates the audio signal completely, both physically and electrically from the power and digital control sections,” said Nigel Ng, of Advance Audio, which distributes Dan D’Agostino in Australia. “The physical isolation also offers additional room to maximize both power and audio circuitry while the monaural structure separates the two audio channels from each other to ensure the ultimate in channel separation.”

The separate power supply has extensive electrical and magnetic shielding to keep radiated interference out of critical preamplifier circuits and has line conditioning circuitry to filter r.f. noise from the a.c. power and compensates for asymmetric power waveforms and d.c. on the mains. Two 150VA toroidal transformers are used — one for the analog circuitry and one for the digital and control circuitry — along with 8-amp bridge rectifiers and 26,400μF of capacitance. The two regulators used for the analog stages are scaled-down versions of those used in the Relentless Mono amplifier.

Design highlights of the no-negative feedback fully complementary, direct-coupled circuit include a completely new and unique discrete differential FET input stage and completely balanced topology that rejects common-mode input noise over an unusually wide bandwidth. All signal gain is realized in the current domain using proprietary multiple-output current mirrors with nearly 30 times the linearity of other designs. All signal switching relays are hermetically sealed and use gold-plated contacts for maximum signal integrity. “The new Relentless Preamplifier is a crowning jewel of my career,” says Dan D’Agostino, co-founder and chief engineer.

The Relentless amplifier comes with a new bi-directional infra-red remote but can also use Bluetooth technology to extend the usable range of the remote control and eliminate line-of-sight issues. The new Relentless also becomes the first D’Agostino model to offer an optional Digital Streaming Module (DSM) that adds connectivity for legacy sources, USB functionality, and a premier streaming capability. Field upgradeable, the DSM adds SPDIF coaxial, Optical, USB-A, and RJ-45 and Wi-Fi network inputs. Available now, the Relentless is available in black, silver and custom colours.

For more information, contact Advance Audio on (02) 9561 0799 or at www.advanceaudio.com.au