Upgrade McCormack or...


I have a McCormack DNA-1 Deluxe that I've been very happy with for the past two years, but I'd like to see if I can do better within a limited budget.  Steve McCormack's folks at SMC will upgrade it for ~$1850 (Gold upgrade), but is there a better amp I can find for less than $3000 used (the approximate value of my amp plus upgrade cost), that might make more sense; any suggestions? 
128x128cheeg

Showing 3 responses by soix

Agree if you really really love your DNA-1 but just want more, the upgrade makes sense if you're planning to keep it for the long run.  As an owner of an old DNA-0.5 Rev A I'm kinda facing the same decision.  But if you're open to exploring new pastures, there's a pair of Clayton Audio M70 monos that bring you into pure Class-A operation that would sorely tempt me -- especially at the $2100 asking price.  Just another potential option FWIW, and best of luck. 

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649542736-clayton-audio-m70-monoblock-amplifiers/
@mitch2 — I’d be very interested in what you find in terms of improvements as I’m considering sending my DNA 0.5 RevA in for upgrade, and I also believe my input board may have finally crapped the bed so I need to do something anyway.
Congrats @cheeg!  Could you share what upgrades were done (or if they’re listed somewhere already), the cost, and what improvements you experienced?  I’m leaning heavily toward doing the upgrades myself and would be very interested in your thoughts.  Thanks!