A comment on using a McIntosh with McCormack. I have a C38 pre mated to a DNA 1/B, and before that it was used with a DNA 0.5. While the sonics are solid - at least to my ears - there is an issue with gain. There are a very limited range of volume settings, at least with my speakers (ML SL3) and room. 8 o'clock is relatively soft, 9 is fairly loud, and 10 is beyond my comfort level. I use a universal remote and it's not always easy to adjust the volume up or down by just a little bit.
Pre-amp to combo with Mccormack DNA 0.5
Just bought the Mccormack DNA 0.5, after ALOT of research. Thank you all who helped me choose.
Anyway, my second step on the upgrade now will be to buy a pre-amplifier. I have some cheap options available, but I want something that will make me satisfied for years to come, so research, again is necessary.
My "easy" options are:
Mccormack TLC-1 ($500) - Same brand, some say it'd be a good match, some say it's passive and has got no personality. I heard it myself and liked it, but no pre-outs, meaning I'd not be able to plug my Rel Strata II subwoofer in it. No remote either.
Carver C-4000 ($200) - Legendary choice, don't know much about it, except it's a classic.
QED Vector Reference ($600) - Another passive unit, at least this one gives me a remote.
Basically I need something that will make my sound better, or at least not change it. And then some pre-outs would be good, Remote is a plus only. Price tag can't surpass $900, and territorial limitations should be respected, as I live in Brazil and cannot get certain brands.
Any of you has a suggestion?
Anyway, my second step on the upgrade now will be to buy a pre-amplifier. I have some cheap options available, but I want something that will make me satisfied for years to come, so research, again is necessary.
My "easy" options are:
Mccormack TLC-1 ($500) - Same brand, some say it'd be a good match, some say it's passive and has got no personality. I heard it myself and liked it, but no pre-outs, meaning I'd not be able to plug my Rel Strata II subwoofer in it. No remote either.
Carver C-4000 ($200) - Legendary choice, don't know much about it, except it's a classic.
QED Vector Reference ($600) - Another passive unit, at least this one gives me a remote.
Basically I need something that will make my sound better, or at least not change it. And then some pre-outs would be good, Remote is a plus only. Price tag can't surpass $900, and territorial limitations should be respected, as I live in Brazil and cannot get certain brands.
Any of you has a suggestion?