The Forthcoming D’Agostino Momentum C2 Preamp
My reference preamp of the past few years, the D’Agostino Momentum HD, is ceding to the new D’Agostino Momentum model, to be called the C2 preamp. Termed “a complete departure from the HD,” the C2 derives from the superb, top-line D’Agostino Relentless preamp (review forthcoming).
Among the C2’s many new features: power travels from the power supply into the preamp via interlocking 20A connectors in the preamp’s feet, eliminating all external umbilical cords. Both the remote and the power supply include numerical readouts of volume. Another first for D’Agostino: a headphone preamplifier with its own independent circuitry.
Although nomenclature on the company’s website is confusing—it was originally called the C4 internally, then changed to C2—the new preamplifier employs D’Agostino’s complementary four-circuit input stage topology. Four JFET transistors are arrayed in a complementary, differential, push-pull arrangement that increases input impedance and decreases noise. Separate toroidal transformers handle analog and digital circuitry. A field-upgradable Digital Streaming Module (DSM) adds USB DAC and streaming capability. An iOS app offers unit control and streaming of Tidal, Qobuz, and Spotify. The C2 can support MQ, PCM up to 32/384, and DSD up to DSD256.
You can see specs for the 73lb preamplifier here.
On hand for the product launch were the man himself, Dan D’Agostino, and Vice President of Engineering, Burhan Coskun.