Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems has announced a major upgrade to the original flagship Momentum mono amplifier (shown here). The newly updated model, dubbed the M400, has more power (400 watts), uses a new ultra-quiet 1,800VA linear transformer, and has a new driver section. Current Momentum amplifiers can be upgraded to the Momentum M400 performance level for a cost of $15,000/pair.

From Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems
Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems, the company founded by famed audio designer Dan D'Agostino, is releasing a major upgrade to the company's flagship Momentum monaural amplifier. The Momentum amplifier helped launch Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems and delivered magnificently on the initial design goals of formidable power and incomparable finesse from a compact chassis. Chief Engineer and Designer Dan D'Agostino started an engineering exercise that resulted in an exciting new breakthrough that D'Agostino felt compelled to include in the Momentum amplifier. This research led to the substantial improvements included in the new Momentum M400.

The new M400 moniker gives a clue to a major part of the upgrade. Power output has been increased to 400 watts. This is up from the original 300 watts. The backbone of the power increase is a new ultra-quiet 1,800VA linear transformer--a 20 percent increase in size from the original. Coupled to this larger power source is a new output stage design that includes a number of major enhancements.

A critical element of any amplifier output stage is circuitry known as the driver section. In the new Momentum M400, this stage has been elevated to a fully complementary design. There are now individual transistors employed for the positive and negative halves of the musical signal. This change nearly doubles the current drive necessary to maximize the enhanced output stage that follows. The new output stage takes this increased drive to boost the open loop gain by the same factor of two. The result is a sound that is more authoritative, richer, and more expansive. "I am thrilled to be able to improve on the best amplifier design of my career," said Dan D'Agostino. "Even more exciting is that we can offer these upgrades to original Momentum amplifier customers."

The Momentum M400 employs the same chassis with a small aesthetic design change to the copper feature on the faceplate sides. Additionally, the meter now displays a scale appropriate for the greater power output.

Current Momentum monaural amplifiers can be upgraded to the Momentum M400 performance level. Included in the upgrade is the new 400-watt meter plate and all electrical component upgrades. The retail price for the upgrade is $15,000/pr and is performed at the D'Agostino Audio facility in Cave Creek, AZ. Earlier units require new heatsinks to dissipate the increased power and require an additional charge. Customers should contact their dealer, distributor, or D'Agostino Audio for details.

Additional Resources
• For more information on the Momentum M400 and other Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems products, please visit www.dandagostino.com.
• Check out our Stereo, Mono, and Audiophile Amplifiers category page to read our most recent amplifier reviews.