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D'Agostino Momentum amp melts down

The latest issue of Stereophile tests the Momentum amplifier and amp number 1 melts down during the precondition test. Atkinson is afraid to subject amp number 2 to the same test and only runs it for 1/2 as long as the standard test.

Parasound, Bryston, and others pass this test but the Momentum can't? Then they act like it's no big deal like it melted down. So, if that's the case, why perform the test?

The manufacturer response doesn't remark on the melt down. I would think Dan would be duly embarrassed but what the heck, those copper heat sinks sure look great.

Would a prospective buyer (not me) be hesitant to power an inefficient speaker to loud levels with this amp?

rhljazz
unsound
7,310 posts
 
^"Schadenfreude"
gregadd
574 posts
 
It is what it is. You don't have to ignore the fact that it exploded under test conditions. It did not in the other two reviews I read. It was not even hot when I listened to it. I'm sure at $40k it has a hefty warranty.
When you audition at the store push it hard and see what happens.
gregadd
574 posts
 
Sorry it did not explode. Perhaps the phrase is"thermal protection mode."
danielk141
489 posts
 
#1. What exactly does "Melts Down" mean? Something melted in the amp? Exactly what?
#2. Does this amp have thermal protection? If yes, why didn't it work?
#3. I'm gong to guess Dan D. is going to want to address this issue, before this design is branded a very attractive failure.
danielk141
489 posts
 
Onhwy61,

My apologies! You already answered my questions, I just didn't read all the responses before I jumped in..
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