MacCormack Upgrades from SMc Audio?

Can't speak to your specific unit, but the SMc upgrades to the DNA amps are breathtaking, service is excellent as well.

If you look, you'll see I'm a big fan of Steve's mods (I have a DNA 0.5 Platinum... have owned a DAC-1 "platinum" and also the full sized Phono Drive). Now you know my prejudice.

I also know that if you like the component and end up liking the mods (I'm sure you will), then you'll probably save up and go for the higher level... I've learned to wait and just go that way.

Having said all of that, and not being familiar with the upgrades to the particular piece in which you're interested--I'd go straight to the horse's mouth & call Steve and ask him about the bang for the buck. He's always been very open & honest with me and a very nice guy.

good luck,

Thank you very much folks for the opinions, and vote of confidence pertaining to Mr. MacCormack, and the high degree of quality work he does.

I know from reading the Description of the modifications he does, particularly the better Version B Upgrade to the Micro Phono Drive, in all actuality, it sounds like a completely new unit inside, with very little resemblence to the original unit in many respects, other than it all still fits within the same original case.

I have written Steve MacCormack privately, as he is a member of this forum, so perhaps if, and when Steve can find the time, he'll possibly respond with his input about this topic. Thank you again folks! Mark

Mark,

You might want to call him... I think he probably answers his phone more regularly than answering his email.

Hi Mark -

Thanks for your interest in my work. One correction: the $500 upgrade you describe is the Revision A - not the "B." You are absolutely correct that the Rev A is a complete rebuild, including circuit topology improvements as well as a full set of the best resistors, capacitors, wire, and jacks. The result is a very serious phono stage, and the people that have had this work done have expressed a lot of enthusiasm about the finished product. It's an across-the-board improvement.

The new power supply (the Micro Power Station) is optional, but recommended. In truth it is a relatively small upgrade over the original wall-wart, but it *is* an improvement and it does allow you to use a good after-market AC cord.

Regarding your e-mail question about the gain, I am a little surprised that you aren't hearing any clipping when running your high-output Glider with the High gain setting. There is no danger of hurting anything so it's no big deal, but watch out for phono stage clipping on highly modulated records.

That's all I have for the moment... I am currently out of town but will be back in my office on Monday the 27th if you wish to call.

All my best to you and other 'Goners,

Steve McCormack
www.SMcAudio.com