The new Relentless Preamplifier from Dan D’Agostino is an extraordinary advancement in the realm of audio technology. This preamplifier is designed to address the critical role that preamplifiers play in musical playback, especially at the point in the reproduction stage where signals are vulnerable to noise and distortion. Taking a bold step forward, the Relentless Preamplifier utilizes a three-chassis design that separates audio channels from the power supply and control sections, effectively tackling these challenges while enhancing overall performance.
Power Supply
Central to the Relentless Preamplifier’s architecture is its innovative power supply, strategically positioned between the audio channels. This power supply employs extensive electrical and magnetic shielding to prevent radiated interference from affecting the delicate preamplifier circuits. It features internal line conditioning circuitry that filters RF noise and compensates for issues like asymmetric power waveforms and DC on the mains.
The preamplifier is powered by two robust 150 VA toroidal transformers—one dedicated to analog circuitry and the other to digital and control functions. These transformers feed an 8-amp bridge rectifier and 26,400 microfarads of filter capacitance, providing power supply capabilities that rival many power amplifiers. With regulators derived from the Relentless Mono amplifier, the design ensures reliability and performance even in the face of faults.
Expanding Horizons
The Relentless Preamplifier introduces an uncharted circuit design in its mono preamplifier’s input stage, building on successful concepts from previous D’Agostino models. At its core lies a groundbreaking discrete differential FET input stage, engineered to handle an impressive 30-volt input signal. With an input impedance exceeding 1 MOhm, the preamplifier is immune to source-related electrical disturbances.
To combat performance degradation from heating, a specialized circuit maintains consistent bias, ensuring unwavering performance during extended listening sessions. Exclusively featuring balanced XLR inputs, the preamplifier effectively eliminates common-mode input noise across a wide bandwidth. Utilizing proprietary multiple-output current mirrors enhances linearity significantly, while four-layer circuit boards minimize distortion and signal propagation issues.
A Unique Volume Control Design
One of the most striking features of the Relentless Preamplifier is its dual volume controls, which are often overlooked in preamplifier designs. Each control comprises 14 metal components, ensuring smooth operation and exceptional control. The bandwidth and transient response remain unaffected by volume settings, allowing high frequencies to sound smooth and music to emerge from a “jet black” silence.
Volume levels can be displayed elegantly via Swiss watch-inspired wands or numerically from 0 to 99, enhancing the user experience.
Two Preamplifiers in One
The Relentless Preamplifier is designed for versatility, functioning as a two source/two zone preamplifier. It can manage two sources simultaneously in two separate rooms or zones, accommodating both analog and digital input options. The user-friendly interface allows for straightforward control of the volume in either zone, making it an ideal choice for diverse audio setups.
Advanced Remote Control Technology
Equipped with Bluetooth® 5.0 BLE technology, the Relentless Preamplifier’s remote control enhances usability with bi-directional communication. The display screen mirrors the front panel, facilitating navigation and operation adjustments without the need for line-of-sight, significantly improving user experience.
Seamlessly Adapting to Any Setup
While the primary focus of the Relentless Preamplifier is premium stereo playback, it also integrates effortlessly into home theater systems. Input Three can be configured for Theater Bypass, allowing seamless volume control through a connected surround-sound processor. RS-232 and 12-Volt triggers facilitate integration into advanced home control systems, ensuring future-proof performance.
Optional Digital Streaming Module (DSM)
The Relentless Preamplifier is the first in D’Agostino’s lineup to offer an optional Digital Streaming Module (DSM). This upgrade introduces connectivity for legacy sources, USB functionality, and premier streaming capabilities. The DSM supports high-resolution network content with 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet, allowing users to enjoy seamless playback.
Customized apps for iOS provide easy control over music collections and streaming services, including native support for Tidal, Qobuz, and Spotify, while MQA decoding is standard. The analog circuitry of the DSM is isolated from the digital components, ensuring the highest sonic performance.
