2. amps-preamps
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Aragon 4004 vs. McCormack DNA-1?

I am looking at a new ( to me) SS for my system. I am using a pair of Vandersteen 2ce Signature speakers and a Sonic Frontiers SFL-1 Signature preamp.

I have tentatively narrowed it down to a stock DNa-1 and a stock 4004.

Anyone care to offer experience or opinions on those two choices? Cost will be close to the same although the McCormack will probably be maybe $100 more.

From what I have read both are pretty good amps with the Vandys and I like the fact that McCormack is still supported by the designer.
stuartbmw3

Showing 2 responses by stuartbmw3

stuartbmw3 OP
90 posts
 
Thanks for the input thus far. Definitely leaning toward the McCormack. Total cost to me is actually within $50 which seems to make the DNA-1 an even better deal.

I keep running into other amps that just muddy the issue, a single BEL 1001 mk2, McIntosh MC2105, B&K Reference 4420.....etc. Lots of great amps in the $700-800 range!

At this point I am limiting the search to SS amps.
stuartbmw3 OP
90 posts
 
Hi guys. Thought I would follow up on this thread. I went ahead and bought a stock DNA-1. At this point I could not be more pleased. The amp is in great shape. It is built beautifully and really fits well in my system.....and I think it is a great match with the Vandersteens. It has a sweeter, more musical top end and midrange, but what actually surprised me was the authority it has in the lower octaves....just a much more rock solid grip on the bottom. It may be just a factor of more power....~185 watts for the McCormack vs ~125 with the Classe......but this is a pretty significant improvement in my system

And to top it off, I have been able to converse directly with Steve McCormack regarding the amp.....pretty cool.

Thanks for the input during my search.
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