McCormack DNA500 and DNA2

It is difficult to write a detailed description of the differences between the DNA-500 and my Platinum upgrades to the DNA-125 or 225, so I'll keep this brief and encourage you to call me if you would like further detail.

The DNA-500 is an outstanding amplifier by any measure, and is the only fully balanced / differential amp that I have designed. When it comes to power delivery and control of difficult speakers, the 500 is second to none. It also comes from the factory with a very good set of parts.

The Platinum upgrades allow me to rebuild my earlier designs to a far higher level of performance, and I feel that the Platinum amps can compete with the finest amps in the world. The Platinum upgrades achieve a degree of refinement that is world-class, and does go somewhat beyond the DNA-500. However, when it comes to power and bass control, you would have to go to a monoblock pair of 125s or 225s to hit the performance level of the DNA-500. On the other hand, if your speakers aren't terribly demanding the 125 or 225 may deliver everything you're looking for.

Topsel, as you suggest, the choice of preamp is an important part of the equation. The Modwright is certainly an excellent choice and will match well with any of my amps. Although I try to steer clear of making outright recommendations, I have to say that the combination of the DNA-500 and the Modwirght SWL9.0 ought to be fantastic. But then again, the DNA-2 LAE is no slouch, either ;-)

Best regards,

Steve McCormack
SMc Audio

Good stuff Steve....

I don't think answers can get much better than that.

I have a Modwright Signature 9.0 w/NOS tubes I am putting into my system today. I will let you know how it meshes with the DNA-125.

The Modwright preamps work very well with the DNA 500. I own the DNA 500 and used it with the Modwright 9.0 preamp and then more recently with the Modwright LS 36.5 with external power supply.

The DNA 500 is great amp.

Well, 2 days listening to the Modwright 9.0 Signature w/NOS Tung Sol and Sylvania recitifer, and it sounds like a perfect match for the DNA-125 rev. Gold. This is probably the best I have heard this amplifier sound. Huge soundstage, very natural and dynamic. Beats the last 3 preamps I have paired with this amp: Herron VTSP-1a/166, Audio Research LS26, and Dehavilland Ultraverve II. Plus, it is extremely quiet, something I couldn't say about either the ARC or Herron when paired with this amp.

I bet the LS36.5 would be even better!