2. amps-preamps
  3. 1140406847

Preamp impedance mismatch with McCormack DNA2

I recently purchased a McCormack DNA-2 with an SMC Rev.A mod. The amp currently has a 100K input impedance, however I am sending it back to Steve for some additional mods including the Jenson balanced transformer upgrade, which would change the input impedance to 10K. I am currently running direct out of my Reolution Audio Opus 21 cd player, but would really like to add a tube preamp. I am finding that alot of tube preamps are typically ( on paper ) not suited for driving a lower input impedance. However, what is on paper and what is reality are often two different scenarios. I would appreciate some suggestions on some balanced tube preamps that may work well with this amplifier. I don't live in an area where there are dealers so trying several at home is not possible. At least with some suggestions it will help narrow my search and the amount of traveling I will have to do. Thank you for all the help.

Darrin
rhythmace4218

Showing 1 response by bgrazman

bgrazman
226 posts
 
I'm having great luck with a Supratek Syrah preamp and the SMC Platinum version of the DNA 0.5.

Before the Supratek was an ARC LS-7 (also tubes).

The amp came into the system unmodifed... I had the Rev. A work done and lived with it a few years and just a few months ago went for the full monty. Have only seen the results get better & better.

I would also second albertporter's comments--Steve has always steered me in the right direction.

happy listening,
More to discover