Hi Audioq, I have used the McCormack DNA-1DX, DNA.5, and now DNA-2DX; first with SF SFL-1 pre-amp and now the SF Line 2. I think that McCormack amps with Sonic Frontiers pre-amps are a very synergistic combination. And I recently purchased a SF Line 1 (for a 2nd system) that sounds just as good. The McCormack amps are sweet and have excellent bass control while the SF tube pre-amps add smoothness and take the edge out of CDs. My suggestion: consider having Steve McCormack upgrade your DNA.5. He has three up-grade packages and can be reached at www.smcaudio.com, (or is it just www.smc.com)? The SF Line 1 and 2 sound remarkably alike, with the Line 1 being a little bit brighter (in a good way), and the Line 2 a little more "relaxed and laid back", on balance, I prefer the Line 2 for it's ease and more relaxed music character. I've never been impressed with the ability of tube amps to control bass, but I guess it depends on the kind of music you listen to, and your preferences. If you really must have a new amp, the McCormack DNA-2DX is fantastic, and can drive anything-- I claearly preferred it to Levinson 331. Happy hunting.
Sonic Frontiers Power 2
I am currently considering an upgrade to my amp (McCormack DNA .5) and would like to hear from anyone with experience of the SF Power 2. I own a BAT VK D5, Sonic Frontiers Line 1 and B&W Nautilus 805 with audioquest interconnects and speaker cables . My listening room is not that big so I dont necessarily need a lot of power but thought the SF combo may work well together particularly with balanced I/C. I see a lot of SF Power 2's for sale 2nd hand at reasonable prices but am not sure if this is a good thing. Does the large number of these amps on the used market indicate a problem. I have gathered from some reviews written that the Power 2 has a slightly fat midbass and may have some transformer hum issues. Any thoughts? (Even McCormack/SF line 1 produce small amount of angry insect noise - am getting a PS power plant to help with this). I am just beginning my search and could just as easily look at Audio Research VT100 or even other solid state. Any help from SF owners or other combinations I should consider with Line 1 would be appreciated.