2. amps-preamps
  3. 159710-87559

D'agostino amplifiers: where's the beef?

So I've owned two of the classic monster Krell amplifiers from the distant past, the KSA 50 and later the KSA 250.  Both great amplifiers in their time and both collectible for those interested in that kind of stuff.  I'm generally a fan of D'agostino as a consequence.

I'm currently shopping for a new solid state amplifier to pair with potentially new speakers (Wilson or YG or Von Schweikert or Magico or Joseph - long story for another day).

 So recently while auditioning at my local dealer the system was powered by the current D'agostino M400 mono amplifiers.  While the sound was good I couldn't help but notice how TINY the $65K amplifiers were sitting on stands near the speakers.  OK they had nice metal work and were shiny but I couldn't help wonder WHY are these things so expensive?!  Later at home photo's of the insides of these amps on Google led me to wonder even more!!  The power supplies and interior construction in these things are nothing like the monster supplies and parts in the classic Krell's

Plus while the Krell's were expensive in their day (with great sound) the current D'agostino's have absurd pricing, far exceeding inflation.  

Are people spending this kind of money for fancy heat sinks?  Really?

I'd rather have an old Krell and a new Porsche Boxster or C8 Corvette for the same money.

Any one else have similar impressions?
bobbydd

Showing 2 responses by droberson02

droberson02
15 posts
 
"Where’s the beef?"

DDMAS-Dan-DAgostino-with-Relentless.jpeg (919×1280) (oracleoftime.com)

PS - if you’re gonna whine about price, find another hobby. These people have to run a company with specialty products. They didn’t choose the easy route by any stretch. The comments of some above are so idiotic I don’t know why they’re even members here.
droberson02
15 posts
 
Excellent points rocray. The answer is we all have flaws, and this hobby, along with the anonymity of online posting, brings out the inherent nastiness of some. Happiness isn’t about having money and things, but it is in mental attitude, and enjoying whatever you have. I was delighted to see your post made that point already.

I own M400s (also a KSA-250 in the 90’s), not from being rich, but from working all my life and saving, and making certain decisions (if the OP thinks they lack heft, he should try lifting one!). Honestly, I never cared for their appearance; it was the sound. The milled chassis and copper heatsinks are functional!

But if I truly had money, I’d take a look at those beefy Relentless amps that take a crane to position. There’s always something beyond our means, for most of us. Also, Dan D’Agostino and his organization are fine people.
More to discover