McCormack DNA 0.5 vs. DNA 2.0 Deluxe

Qobuz & Tidal = CD quality = 14,100 kbps

Spotify Premium = 320 kbps (less than 25% of CD quality)

+1 on the recommendation to drop Spotify and switch to Qobuz. 
as far as the amp upgrade…man that’s a tough one…looking at that system…I would probably add an external DAC between the 851 and a Jumbo Shrimp. The DNA-0.5 is a capable amp and if it drives those KEFs without breaking a sweat, like I said, adding a DAC would be a nice step up, provided you ditch Spotify and get Qobuz

I'm so pleased to see a discussion of the great stereo work of Steve McCormack; a most important audio designer,

I bought a DNA-0.5 amp and TLC-1 preamp in the late 90's. I started talking to Pat at SMc Audio about upgrading both a couple years ago. I was 1st going to upgrade the preamp because it lost a channel and had no remote volume control. But then I got into digital streaming and not needing a preamp, instead sold the TLC-1 back to them and upgraded the DNA. Originally I'd bought it for around $1.5K and after putting a couple of grand into the upgrade I have a power amp equal in sonic quality to any in the $6 -8K price range.

Pat is so easy to work with. No desire to up sell anything. Totally committed to providing what the customer needs. He takes all the time you need to decides what you want him to do. I'm so glad I've upgraded this classic piece of stereo equipment. My only regret is that maybe I should have kept the TLC. All I know is my system sounds great and the power amp is a main component I'll never have to replace!!

Thank you all for sharing your thoughts and advice based on your experiences in our shared pursuit of audio nirvana!

Based on your comments, and some research I have done, I am concluding the following:

DNA 0.5 vs. DNA 2
Keep my DNA 0.5. The DNA 2 may not be the "next level sound" I have the itch for. An SMC upgrade may need to be budgeted for!
Streaming Service
Spotify, although very user friendly, is not the best "High Resolution" source. Tidal or Qobuz is the way to go. I will be signing up for one of them this week.
DAC updgrade
Audphile1, spot on here as a DAC upgrade is next on my list! Just not sure where to go on this….
Kennesawjet, I replaced my ALD1 with the Manley Jumbo Shrimp and love the warmer sound & remote control. I have a feeling you will love your upgraded DNA 500!

raydecraene getting to old to handle this beast. dont even want to know what it sounds like, trying to sell it before i do..........im satisfied with my wifes cj system, becoming reacclimated with the cj house sound again, may take it off sale.