Preamps paired with DNA 225 or other McCormacks

For value, the discontinued Audible Illusions L-1 Linestage. It has dual gain controls and the pre adds a slight warmth to the McCormack.

If I recall correctly, the Herron VTSP was a nice match that someone else has used. Finally, McCormack's own pre's would work well.

Good Luck,

I will second the L-1. I used it for a good while. At the used price, it is an absolute steal. Sonically, it is as described by Mattybumpkin. The gain set up is such that you can control volume ideally(something you couldn't do with the M3A.)
You can alter the sound somewhat with a little tube rolling.
You would have to have a drastic increase in price to beat this pre. McCormacks own preamps are neutral but to me, render the sound a little dry and in need of a touch of warmth.
As for impedance, they all have a 100k input which mates well with tubes.

If you can find one for sale used, the Audio Prism Mantissa has worked excellently for several of us McCormack owners. The trick is actually finding someone who wants to sell it. Then again, you could also look for it's pricier incarnation with the Red Rose badge on it.

In any case, try a tubed preamp with the McCormack's. Just find one that's as transparent as possible (not always an easy trick).

Enjoy,
Bob

I've heard them work well with the AE L-1 and SF's Line-2 and Line-3.

Kal