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McCormack pres/amps and Steve's mods

I have a DNA .5 Rev A and absolutely love it. I may never part with it. Right now, 100wx2 should be plenty for the nOrh mini 9.0's I have coming. But what happens when I want or need more power? Do I go with a matched pair of DNA .5 monoblocks, or a DNA-1 Rev. A?

On that note, does a DNA.5 Rev A sound the same as the DNA-1 Rev A or DNA-2 Rev A?

And what should be the next upgrade based on the nOrh speakers - having Steve upgrade my stock RLD-1, or adding/upgrading the amp?

It's nice to get an idea of where my upgrading will go so I can set appropriate savings goals. :)
aggielaw
artg
362 posts
 
try a tubed line stage if you really want to make a difference. I used to have some mccormack gear - and is really nice, but i didnt care for the preamp (mine was rev B ALD-1). As far as the power amps, I think you'd be well served with a DNA-1 rather than 0.5 mono's - cheaper and takes far less space. Just my $0.02
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
If your speakers will allow, I would recommend verticaly bi-amping w/ a pair of 0.5 Rev As, but I also really liked my 0.5s with a BAT pre-amp.
artg
362 posts
 
Ah - another vote for a tubed linestage to go with the McCormack
phd
1,307 posts
 
You have my vote for the DNA 0.5 Rev A, I have owned one. If you consider the DNA 0.5 Deluxe & compare it to the DNA 1 Deluxe, the differences between these two amps are not just output power but sound quality, the 0.5 Deluxe having a more refined & sweeter sound, many audiophiles will agree. Also given the fact the 0.5 has enormous headroom, I believe this is a amp that can drive virtually any speaker, even ones that are 4 ohms. There are always some compromises made when you move up the ladder in power, the lower powered units always sound better. But given that I believe the DNA 1 to be a superb bargain when compared to other brands of equal power ratings.
4yanx
1,576 posts
 
I will agree with both the Swampwalker and Phd with respect to the 0.5.

I have had both tube and SS preamps with my McCormack DNA-225. There are wonderful possibilities, either way, in addition to passives. My only caveat would be to make sure you pay close attention to getting something with a good quality attenuator with as many step increments as possible.

You mention the RLD-1 and upgrades. DO NOT ignore the possibility of having that piece upgraded by Steve McCormack. I have heard of good things regarding that particular upgrade. Here is a link to a review on and upgraded RLD:

RLD-1 Upgrade

I just received back my DNA-225 last Friday after having Platinum upgrades completed. I will be forwarding a review after everything settles in but I have just one word for now - INCREDIBLE! Plus, Steve is an absolute PRINCE to deal with. I suggest giving him a call to discuss your situation. He will be honest and give advice depending on your needs and tastes without "selling". Good luck.
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