s.s. preamp matchup to mccomack dna1 rev.a

Bigwave; I use an SF Line 2 with a McCormack DNA2 Rev.A (Vand. 5 spkrs.) and don't find the combination soft at all-- laid back yes, but also pretty neutral and dynamic. It's my guess that it's more likely an interconnect or speaker cable issue in your case. Either can have a significant affect on especially a soft versus dynamic presentation. FWIW, I use Syn. Res. Phase 2 (Kaleidoscope from pre-amp to amp) w/active shield ICs, and Syn. Res. Sig. #2 copper cables known for their slight warmth. What else is in your system?

Also, I tried a pair of Seimens tubes in the driver positions of my Line 2 and found the music presentation to be overly big, diffuse, and "bloomy". The stock Sovteks are much more neutal, albeit a bit cool, but in my system other things make up for that. Good Luck. Craig

I have the DNA-2 LAE in my 2-channel system and I'm using a Primare P30 pre/pro (100% analog in 2-channel by-pass mode.

I've A/B compared the P30 with a burned-in Ayre k3-x preamp in my home. The P30 was much more transparent and detailed with less coloration. However, the k3-x was sweet and a bit more musical but at a great cost.

I've also compared the P30 in my home with a CJ PV-14 and an Electrocompaniet. There was no comparison. The CJ and Electro were warm but simply way too subdued.

The Primare P30 retails for around $3500.

You should also look at installing some dedicated lines for all your components, especially for the amp. This will certainly help make your system more robust.

Try out an Audible Illusions Modulus 3A preamp. It has a long history of being one of the finest preamps for use with McCormack amps. They form a real synergy. If you only need line applications(no phono), try the Audible L-2 line stage or a used L-1. The AL preamps are very dynamic and are some of the best-period.