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!!