preamp to mate with McCormack DNA 1

I'm really pleased with my BAT VK-3i. After about 5 years I replace the tubes with New Old Stock (NOS) and the improvements were more than subtle.

I also have DNA-1 (stock) and Thiel 2.2's.

I recommend to use passive preamps since McCormacks are too sencitive for the tube drive. They're designed to be used with McCormack preamps that have basically 0 gain. Becides McCormack preamps that I consider bright in active mode you can use:
1.Placette passive(remote optional) is a-bit above $1k
2.Audio Synthesis passive rempte preamp(used is even under $1k)
3.Never had a chance but according to the blasting reviews you can check bent audio transformer volume passive preamp.

I can make a counter suggestion. I'm using a McIntosh C-38 with my DNA 1/B driving ML SL3s. WHile I love the flexibility, durability, and smoothness of the McIntosh, I have a usable volume range between 8 o'clock and 9 o'clock, anything over 9 and the room is over-pressurized and not really comfortable. Still no distortion at the louder volumes, just far more than needed in a 16*25 room