Not sure what kind of answer you're looking for. If you've researched prior threads, you'll probably get the same answers from this thread. (I know I've responded to my fair share in the past.)
Nevertheless, here is a summary of why I recommend this amp.
1. It works well for both novices and experienced audiophiles. Novices may be satisfied with the stock model for a good amount of time. You can find better at the stock level, but you are likely to spend quite a bit more. Experienced/demanding audiophiles will definitely appreciate the upgrades. Depending on your needs, this amp can be transformed into one with few peers.
2. Similar to 1., this amp also fits various budgets and represents exceptional value. Beer budget systems will be served well by the stock model. Cost-no-object systems will be amazed at the somewhat unparalleled performance available via mods at a still reasonable price tag. Also, as you are moving up between extremes, it's also great not to have to re-buy a whole new chassis and pay dealer mark-up at every stage.
3. The amp mates well with many speaker and preamp combos. It's nice not to have to worry about associated gear to the same extent as SET, OTL, and other more finicky amps.
4. The DNA .5 is relatively small and lightweight enough for shipping without crating. It's also easy to move around and place in a typically tight spaced setup.
5. Not only do the mods bring it up to SOTA performance and represent value, it also gives you the comfort of being future proof. I doubt Steve McCormack will stop looking for ways to improve performance as new technology comes available. Remember, Steve was modding equipment long before modding became so hip.
6. Speaking of Steve McCormack, you won't find anyone better to deal with in this hobby. If I'm going to spend thousands of dollars on a piece of audio equipment, I want to feel good about who I'm giving it to.
7. Reliability. I've had these amps in my system (at various stages of upgrade) for over 10 years and never had a problem or considered changing to another brand. I can't say that about any other piece I've owned in the 20+ years I've been in the hobby. I rarely hear about reliability issues with McCormack, and I'm sure there are quite of few of them out there.
The only negatives are that the upgraded amps are not available in showrooms. Thus, you can't audition them easily and have to rely on word of mouth. Also, no amp will satisfy everyones tastes perfectly. For example, some people like a more "colored" sound from their amps and their systems may sound better with such colorations.
Thus, I wouldn't dare annoint any product the "greatest" in this hobby. However, if you buy one and get it modded, I'm betting you will be joining the chorus of happy owners you refer to in your post.
