Recommendation for Improvement over McCormack DNA-225

I do have a very competent tech who could upgrade the amp with parts consistent with what SMC does for much less money.

Hi dwolek,
Having experience with Steve's SMc Audio upgrades I can say that the quality of the result is far beyond just having a tech replace some parts.  Being the original designer (in most cases), and having spent years perfecting different levels of upgrades that include circuit changes as well as parts upgrades, Steve has a unique ability to get the most out of the already good-sounding stock McCormack gear.

I preferred the DNA-2 LAE that Steve upgraded for me over a pair of the much-heralded Ncore, NC1200 Acoustic Imagery Atsahs, and also kept the DNA-2 while selling another pair of highly rated Class A hybrid monos costing about 4 times as much.  I have experience with several well-regarded and expensive solid state amplifiers and I found the upgraded DNA-2 to be mostly competitive with all of them, with the choice of what I liked best coming down to personal preference rather than any sonic shortcomings. 

The preamp Steve rebuilt for me has bested every preamp (about 20) that I have owned and used in my system, including several units priced over $10K. 

My point is that the result of Steve's work can be very good indeed, both on an absolute scale and certainly for the money.  I have heard good things about CODA but I have also heard good things about the upgraded DNA 225.

After re-reading my previous post on this issue, I want to amend.  I mentioned "harshness" in the treble.  I should have said an "over-emphasis" in the treble with the stock DNA-1 amp.  Steve's circuit modifications evened out the frequency balance, opened up the soundstage and revealed a smoother, more life-like texture to instruments.  The difference is amazing.  If you have a specific budget to work within, it can't hurt to call and talk to Steve and see what he can do for you.

All the best!

Dwolek;

Dwilek; what at does that stand for?
where you at?

anyway, I second the power upgrades & forgot to mention it

VH Audio has some good stuff and good prices

I thought the outlet & power cable stuff was all " hooey" to......( engineer by trade)
bit it really does change stuff( almost like a new component)
i did the Furtech outlets and power distribution for $500 or so and it helped a boat load on the highs
( who would think outlet coating and wire would change the high end delicacy that much?)
it just cannot be!!!!

I would start on power as 1st choice, cheaper and easy

2nd, IC for amp to preamp was $300 or so & worked on delicacy and soundstage
allbthe other cables get real pricy

I tried the cableco on low cost stuff, naw
the cheaper stuff really doesn't do much

Kimber Hero is good, Best selling item for Kimber ( I hear)

see my comments on system

Frozen

I recently worked with SMC to upgrade the fuses in my .5 signature mono's.  My goal was to enhance the midrange, which was achieved.  I also got a reduction in top end harshness.  I was quite surprised at the difference between the high end fuses vs stock.  They are not cheap so this is a clear example of getting what you pay for.  SMC will give you guidance on the make and spec for your McCormack amp.  Now that I've experienced the difference, it would be the first thing I would do, followed by modifications.