Belles 350a or Mccormack DNA -1 Deluxe?

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02-12-15 This does not indicate a problem with either the amp or prea ... Bill_k

02-12-15 Bill_k is correct. there's nothing wrong with your amp. my r ... Zd542

02-12-15 I just posted this on the other thread: i'm assuming you ar ... Mofimadness

02-13-15: Skipper320
I put my cary tube amps back in the system and the problem is there. I have tracked it down to the preamp. I tried changing tubes with some extras I had, no help. With the cover off and a power line glove on, I moved the line stage tubes just a bit and the hum changed with every tiny move. I swapped a SS preamp into the system and the problem isn't there so I am going with a problem with the preamp. I tried switching the speaker wires as indicated and that didn't work. I also tried as suggested to power up the source and allow the preamp to come out of standby before powering up the amp and the problem is still there. The only time the problem goes away is when intake the CJ PV-7 out of the system completely. I guess I'll send it back to CJ to have them troubleshoot it. Could it be just a bad tube socket? The preamp IS 30+ years old.
Thanks for all the help
Skipper320 (System | Reviews | Threads | Answers | This Thread)

Try replacing your Synergistic research Alpha sterling Interconnect with a shielded interconnect and see if its acting like an unshielded antenna.

I have a dna1 silver special, a recapped belles 150a hot rod pushing some rebuilt xover b&w 801's series 80.  Love both the amps... Also some times play my refurbished hk citation 7.1 thx bridged monster... The belles always stands out in front r/t smooth Mid range, open warm highs and great sounding bass too.  I like the big power but the 150a is fine and has no problem pushing the 3 way.  Also note I use (all refurbished) cj pv6, ps audio 5.0 and belles series ii preamp s, enlightened audio cd, ps audio super link, rega rp1...
I agree. Steve McCormack answers his phone. Fixes his stuff often going above and beyond expectations.   Id buy another DNA for the $5-600 and spend another $1000 on the upgrades with out hesitation.  Belles... I have no doubt that doode fixes is stuff with superior service too. Would love to get into a 350a and call it quits...Mmmm. But the Past couple years david and phone calls and email get no response. Wonder what I'm doing wrong... Would love to get one of my channels fixed.. His amps and preamps always get a big thumbs up, even the vintage stuff kills most 'new' cap today..always! Belies has always performed way past the price. I bet zed can fix belles amps thou as Steve is often too busy upgrading his own outstanding products. Just my 2 cents & 12 oz...:-)  cheers

Having recently acquired a newly built DNA-1 gold with a few optional upgrades, I'd say look for a lower gain preamp if you go this direction.  The CJ PV7 has 20db gain and the speakers are rather efficient...the DNA-1 has ample gain...probably enough to consider a passive in your situation. 

Had the DNA upgraded to silver special.. And snagged a vt01 pre amp.. Both Very nice!!  Agreed don't run poor sources. Awaiting delivery 350a.. Hope it makes it safely!!