2. amps-preamps
  3. 149524-3508

BAT VK -200 vs. McCormack DNA 1 Deluxe?

Currently running a BAT VK-5i preamp and McCormack DNA 0.5 with Magnepan speakers and looking to upgrade my amp.  BAT makes sense for the synergy but also impressed with the McCormack so far.  
Ag insider logo xs@2xdave43
mikeyounesi
2 posts
 
Hi Dave43, what do I need to do in order to get BAT VK-5i to work with McCormack DNA 0.5. (Background, I want to upgrade my preamp to BAT VK-5i and potentially send DNA for upgrade, but I was told BAT does not work with MacCormack!!). Thanks.
gdnrbob
4,444 posts
 
@mikeyounesi,
Why wouldn't the BAT preamp not work with a McCormack?
Did you contact SMcAudio?
B
mikeyounesi
2 posts
 
The person is not a tech professional, he said his MacCormack kept resetting when connected to BAT VK-5i and he bought a different tube power amp. I wonder if it was a current draw issue etc, hence I am asking if you experienced any issues or had to do something special, as I am glad you have the set up working well for you.
ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62
3,130 posts
 
The BAT is not an upgrade over what you have. It's a lateral move at best and probably not even that.

Oz
soix
9,456 posts
 
If you like what you’re hearing and the 0.5 has enough power, I’d strongly consider sending it to SMcAudio for upgrades as it will be a surefire huge improvement over what you have now.  Older DNA amps will eventually experience input board failure, which is basically fatal and requires a complete rebuild so beware.  I have no idea about the BAT amp.  Hope this helps, and best of luck.  
More to discover