Dan D’Agostino Master Audio Systems Progression Integrated Amplifier Review

Regardless of the Aurender N-10 or the DAC utilized, there were several consistent findings in all my listening sessions for the Progression linestage on its own. Starting from the bottom up, bass performance via the Progression is now my new benchmark for integrated amplifiers. It also gave my VAC preamp and Pass Labs monoblocks a good run for the money. As stated in my most recent reviews, I have been very impressed with both the Aavik I-580 and the Boulder 866 integrated amplifiers for many excellent reasons – especially their performance in the lower frequencies. Both set standards at the time, but the Progression provides even more definition and slam, and even less low end overhang. Tight, tight, and more tight, but without a loss of harmonic texture and proper tone. Yes, bass performance can have harmonic texture and proper tone when done right! The Progression took a vice like grip on my Sonus Faber Strads and never let go.