2. amps-preamps
  3. 1227590144

Preamp for McCormack DNA-125 Gold? Budget $2k

Any ideas for a preamp match for my McCormack DNA-125 Gold upgrade? It is actually just short of Gold (I didn't have $1750 to spend on the upgrade, but did have $1500, so it is close). My speakers are Tyler Acoustics Linbrook Signatures (not very demanding). I have been using a CJ PV5a preamp: not the best unit, I know.

My budget is $2000 used (or new). Should I pursue a balanced preamp and then consider getting the amp upgraded with balanced IC's as well? That adds another $500 to the cost of the amp, but I could always do it at a later date.

My other option would be to sell the McCormack and get a good integrated for $3500 used. Not having heard any good ones, I don't know if this would best a decent preamp and the DNA-125 Gold.

My musical tastes tend to be classical and jazz.
chiho

Showing 1 response by brownsfan

brownsfan
1,508 posts
 
Jp,

I am using the balanced Promethius Ref 4 TVC into a pair of older DNA-1 monoblocks with very satisfying results. My monoblocks are an older pair with 100 kOhm input impedance. If I recall, most of the later revisions by SMc audio use a much lower 10 kOhm input impedance. If that is the case with your rev a, you might want to stay away from the resistor based passives like the placette. TVC's like the Promethius might be a better way to go. I can't comment on comparisons with active pre's because I've been using passives for the last 15 years. In the case of the Promethius, its an inexpensive experiment to give one a try.
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