2. amps-preamps
  3. 1227590144

Preamp for McCormack DNA-125 Gold? Budget $2k

Any ideas for a preamp match for my McCormack DNA-125 Gold upgrade? It is actually just short of Gold (I didn't have $1750 to spend on the upgrade, but did have $1500, so it is close). My speakers are Tyler Acoustics Linbrook Signatures (not very demanding). I have been using a CJ PV5a preamp: not the best unit, I know.

My budget is $2000 used (or new). Should I pursue a balanced preamp and then consider getting the amp upgraded with balanced IC's as well? That adds another $500 to the cost of the amp, but I could always do it at a later date.

My other option would be to sell the McCormack and get a good integrated for $3500 used. Not having heard any good ones, I don't know if this would best a decent preamp and the DNA-125 Gold.

My musical tastes tend to be classical and jazz.
chiho
ig316b
103 posts
 
Have you thought about one of the McCormack Preamps? If you like the sound they produce you could have it upgraded also. I currently use a TLC-1 Deluxe driving a pair of DNA-1 Deluxe Golds with outstanding results. My deluxe is schedule to get the Platinum package sometime after the first of the year. These should be within your price range with some change to spare. A TLC with the new McCormack face plate appears on Agon from time to time.
nolitan
865 posts
 
The Rowland capri + MCCormack DNA is also a good combo. I forgot about that combo but had that too. Not bad at all!!
chiho OP
26 posts
 
Nolitan: can you elaborate on what you liked about each of the pre's you tried with the McCormack? I see you have been through several.....

Chiho
markwatkiss
508 posts
 
I've owned and enjoyed both the Audio Horizons and the Capri.In my system it wasn't even close,sold the Capri and kept the AH.
jp11801
13 posts
 
Funny this is the same quandary I am facing I've got a DNA-1 rev a with the balanced option and a pair of Alon 1s. I had considered the CAT SL-1, Audio Research SP 10, Modwright 9se and then I went through the passive thought process and considered the placette, bent tap or prometheus units.

I run a vinyl rig and a computer based rig and tonight I plugged my dacs (transdac and apogee duet) direct into the McCormack and used itunes volume control. I was blown away by the sound quality. It is clear to me that just about every preamp I have used has mucked up the sound. I have never heard my rig sound so dynamic and several layers of veil have been removed.
The unfortunate thing is this is a sure fire way to fry the Alons as one day I will forget to lower the itunes volume. Any ideas on a preamp that has the transparency that I am getting going direct?
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