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McCormack DNA-1 vs. Adcom GFA-5802

Relative noob here. I'm looking for a new (used) 2-channel amp to power my new Polk LSi9 bookshelf speakers. I've pretty much decided that I want to get the McCormack DNA-1. I've considered the Parasound Halo 23, as well as the Adcom GFA-5802, but it sounds like the McCormack DNA-1 is the better amp, according to a number of folks (unfortunately, I'm unable to personally listen to any of them).

My question is this: if the McCormack is the better amp, why is it priced around the same place as the Adcom and the Parasound in the current used market? I realize that the Adcom has a bit more power, and Parasound has made some great amps, but people seem pretty unanimous in preferring the DNA-1 for sound quality. What gives? Am I missing something? Is the used market just not as rational as I thought it would be, or has the superiority of the DNA-1 to the Adcom GFA-5802, and the Parasound Halo 23, been overstated? Is it just a matter of taste? Preference for the DNA-1 seemed to transcend mere fanboy-ism.

Thanks for any input.
bthogan

Showing 1 response by stereo5

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stereo5
6,524 posts
 
I have had great luck posting a "Want to Buy" ad in the Audiogon Classifieds. I bought an Audible Illusions Modulus 3B preamp and a Musical Fidelity V Link 192 that way just recently. A dealer contacted me and offered me the V Link192 for the 399.00 list price and told me I wouldn't find a used one because they are too new. Two days later, I was offered a 2 week old unit for 275.00 from someone who saw my ad. Of course I jumped on it.

Give it a try, it will only cost you 4 bucks.
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