2. amps-preamps
  3. 1067644885

McCormack DNA-125/225 Upgrades

There has been much written here regarding the fabulous results of Steve McCormack's personal mods to the older DNA amplifier series (0.5, 1, and 2). Many of you know that I have been waiting for mods to become available to the newer DNA series (125/225). They are now available and I have mine scheduled to go in January (yes, there is a relatively significant backlog at this time). Steve is planning Gold and Platinum level upgrades, as opposed the the B, A, and A-gold, as in the past. These sound like very exciting mods and, if you are interested, call Steve for details.

Just a heads up to those who had wondered when these mods would be offered. By all accounts these mods are outstanding and will bring the 125 or 225 to the level of THE finest amps available.

I have nothing to do with SMCAudio, just a happy user of McCormack.

http://smcaudio.com/

David
4yanx
4yanx OP
1,576 posts
 
Bruce, your review confirms what I have heard elsewhere and makes me thankful that I have reserved my position in the revision schedule. Glad to hear that you find the Audience PC a good match because it, too, is what I am using. I am currently using Vandy 3a Sigs like the Swampwalker and would love to have your Vandy 5's. Most of all, I am hoping to be able to post as glowing a review within the next few months! :-)
bruce_1
96 posts
 
4yanx,
I have no doubt that your experience will be similar to mine. You've got something very special in store! The modified DNA-225 matches beautifully with the Vandersteens, and the Audience PC matches great with the amp. Happy listening!
daltonlanny
301 posts
 
Steve McCormack is a true professional, and a kind person.He has my utmost respect and admiration.He took time out ofhis busy schedule and sent me 4 e-mails about questions I had! I sure wish all manufactures of audio gear were as helpful, kind, and caring as Steve!
mitch2
4,109 posts
 
Wow, you guys who have had the upgrades, and especially Bruce's review are very convincing! To be clear, my post above was in no way meant to disparage what the good folks at SMc are doing or the quality of the products. My point was that they have to basically dismantle a production built amp and rebuild it to achieve the level of performance you guys are talking about. However, after reading your posts, maybe that is not the point at all, rather it is about a guy doing what he loves to do while making some of the best available stereo products and working daily with people who appreciate his ideas and efforts. We should all have such dream jobs! It is obvious he is committed to the satisfaction of his customers. My regret now is not ever having heard the revision A version of my DNA2, maybe I should have chosen to go ahead with the upgrade.
eagle
154 posts
 
Bruce's review is just what I was referring to about credible posts from satisfied customers. Very articulate and descriptive. A single good review like that is very helpful to anyone who is trying to find their way through the maze of audio gear. Good job Bruce!

Mitch, we all have to try to place a comparative value on our purchases. You do have a good point regarding the additional labor of disassembly. For that reason, plus the additional cost of double shipping, I urge people who send in for upgrades to have as much done as possible the first time they send in a component rather than plan to upgrade in stages. The Siltech carbon wire, which was not available at the time of my upgrade, is one good example how you will save money. Be sure to read about it and you will see what I mean.
More to discover