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

@patrico200 I understand your fear of shipping the rebuilt amp cross-country.  All I can say is call Steve and Patrick -- they have a lot of experience with such things, and if they think they can ship it to you safely, I wouldn't doubt it.  Good luck, and have a Happy New Year.

 

It hardly matters what happens on the way from your place to SMc Audio, especially if you are getting the works, since they don't use much more than the case, the heatsinks, and maybe the transistors.  After the upgrades, Steve and Patrick will pack the amp(s) well for the return trip.  The DNA-1 is heavy, especially with the gravity base, but still under 100 pounds and should be safely handled by competent UPS or FedEx drivers.  My pair made it back from SoCal to Michigan with no issues and are the black ones pictured on the website.  Here is Part 1 of a four part interview that may get you excited about the possibilities.  Make sure the boxes are solid and have "Fragile" labels on them.  The improvement in sound will be well worth the trip.

@mitch2 Thank you so much.for the input. I guess it should not be a problem as long as it is not handle by USPS.