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McCormack DNA500 for Revel Salon 2? vs Lev/Mac?

I am close to pulling trigger on either used Levinson 532H or McIntosh mc452 for my Revel Salon 2's (would appreciate opinions on these too).

However, in recent explorations, I've come across rave reviews for the DNA500 as well as the Cary 500MB. How do these compare, and would they be good options? The DNA500 is especially interesting based on it's reported sound qualities, power, and comparative $/performance value.

I'd like more bass impact/depth, and more musicality and warmth. I dont care about ultra-accuracy or ultra detail (as long as it's still good) or soundstage depth. I also prefer a more front row close-up perspective than a mid-hall 30 rows back sound.
jeffkad
jeffkad OP
211 posts
 
Anyone able to comment on DNA500? Will it match well with Salon 2? How does it compare to the Levinson and Mac amps?
czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,752 posts
 
To my ears the McCormack or Cary will more musical than either the Mac or Levinson. I have heard Mac on several occasions and never cared for their sonic character.
jim_swantko
301 posts
 
You owe it to yourself to add the Parasound JC1's to your list of contenders.
p59teitel
312 posts
 
I personally wasn't crazy about the ML 532H with the Salon 2s when I heard them together, even though both are Harman products and you'd think there'd be some synergy. The combo was clean and clear but seemed way too polite on dynamic recordings.

A friend has the big 500 watt Carys driving his Vandersteen 5As and seems very pleased. And not that you asked for additional suggestions, but I am extremely happy with my Plinius SB301 driving the Salon 2s - IMO the Plinius provides much better bass and dynamics than did the ML.
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