McCormack DNA500 and DNA2

On a somewhat related note:

What is the better unit, DNA-125 Platinum or DNA-500? This is, assuming of course, that you don't have current-hungry speakers that drop into the low impedance range. Have been looking my DNA-125 upgraded down the line somewhere, but at the going rate of the 500, they are nearly priced out the same these days. Any sonic differences? I would assume, that due to typical dealer markup, that the Platinum 125 would have better parts. Of course, that doesn't necessarily mean it sounds better....

Well thank you very much for this very insightful description and I'm sorry for not responding to your post earlier (family functions can take a lot of time). I should mention that I'm extremely flattered that you in person replied to my question and I think it speaks volumes about you and your dedication to your own creations. Back to business now ) I wish I could hear both of them then decide which works best for me but I think the DNA500 might have the edge over the DNA2 just based on your description, I might be wrong but as once someone said finding the right sound is a journey no a destination. In terms of the preamp I think something like Modwirght SWL9.0 should do the trick, what other preamps would you or anybody here recommend that work well with this amp?

And maybe just one more question, ho do the upgraded DNA225 to platinum and the DNA500 compare?

It is difficult to write a detailed description of the differences between the DNA-500 and my Platinum upgrades to the DNA-125 or 225, so I'll keep this brief and encourage you to call me if you would like further detail.

The DNA-500 is an outstanding amplifier by any measure, and is the only fully balanced / differential amp that I have designed. When it comes to power delivery and control of difficult speakers, the 500 is second to none. It also comes from the factory with a very good set of parts.

The Platinum upgrades allow me to rebuild my earlier designs to a far higher level of performance, and I feel that the Platinum amps can compete with the finest amps in the world. The Platinum upgrades achieve a degree of refinement that is world-class, and does go somewhat beyond the DNA-500. However, when it comes to power and bass control, you would have to go to a monoblock pair of 125s or 225s to hit the performance level of the DNA-500. On the other hand, if your speakers aren't terribly demanding the 125 or 225 may deliver everything you're looking for.

Topsel, as you suggest, the choice of preamp is an important part of the equation. The Modwright is certainly an excellent choice and will match well with any of my amps. Although I try to steer clear of making outright recommendations, I have to say that the combination of the DNA-500 and the Modwirght SWL9.0 ought to be fantastic. But then again, the DNA-2 LAE is no slouch, either ;-)

Best regards,

Steve McCormack
SMc Audio

Good stuff Steve....

I don't think answers can get much better than that.