Tube540,
Getting back on topic here.
An excellent choice! Honestly, given you list I don't think you would have lost with any of them.
I own a pair of 4.5's as well and power them with Simaudio W5.
I used to own a DNA-1 Deluxe in a different system and it was really a terrific amp - certainly NOT too smooth. You may not even feel the need to do the SMc mods especially given the expense. I sold it in an upgraditis mode (and wanting balanced outputs) but wish I still had that amp.
I am going to try biamping with a tube amp for the highs and keep the W5 for the lows. You may want to consider that for the price of the amp upgrade.
Check out the Von Schweikert Audio forum on AudioCircle where Albert himself makes this very suggestion. No active crossover required!!!
Getting back on topic here.
An excellent choice! Honestly, given you list I don't think you would have lost with any of them.
I own a pair of 4.5's as well and power them with Simaudio W5.
I used to own a DNA-1 Deluxe in a different system and it was really a terrific amp - certainly NOT too smooth. You may not even feel the need to do the SMc mods especially given the expense. I sold it in an upgraditis mode (and wanting balanced outputs) but wish I still had that amp.
I am going to try biamping with a tube amp for the highs and keep the W5 for the lows. You may want to consider that for the price of the amp upgrade.
Check out the Von Schweikert Audio forum on AudioCircle where Albert himself makes this very suggestion. No active crossover required!!!