2. amps-preamps
  3. 1069078505

upgrading from McCormack DNA-1 to.....?

hey now folks...

I have a problem w/my current system.
no synergy. None, nada. I'm unhappy w/the sound overall, and it kills me because I have what was my "dream componants" as of a few months ago.

I went from:
Rotel preamp rc-1070
B&K ST-140
Magnepan MMGs

to:
Y-S audio Symphonies tube pre
McCormack DNA-1
Martin Logan SL3s

I'm finding the overall sound just sort of limp in comparrison to my previous setup that I upgraded from. its got a nice soundstage, images like a champ. No punch, no impact and no real warmth like the B&K had (and that was a lesser and older b&k amp).

I'm thinking of selling the McCormack and going back to a B&K amp like a ref200.2 or 2220 or ST-2140. Anything with at least 120wpc from B&K would tickle my fancy again (I think).
Dissapointing...these SL3s are supposed to really shine a light on how your componants sound. I find my system to be dry and un-involving for the most part. I want something a little smoother and detailed.

Seeking suggestions from those of you who have been there, done that.

Or, should I be looking for a tube amp? Some monoblocks?
Anything in the $800 and under range is fair game for my budget. I also need some wattage for these ML's, so anything sub 80w need not apply.

Thanks
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gileon
45 posts
 
Well, if you want the perspective of a previous McCormack amp owner, I'd say a tube preamp is mandatory, especially an Audible Illusions preamp. I've never heard the Y-S preamp, so can't comment on how that'd mate with McCormack.

Also, the McCormack can be further upgraded by the designer himself to sound even better (stock McCormack's are a tad bright and not so refined for my taste).
hasse
230 posts
 
I would suggest you try the bigger Maggies, 1.6 or 3.6. The DNA-1 dlx is a great match with both Logans and Magnepans but I find the Maggies´ (3.6/R) voicing warmer and smoother sounding while the ´stat panel of the Logans (SL-3 and reQuest) had the edge in clarity and detail. Didn´t like the bass though.
dyl71
29 posts
 
Just recently going from a B&K 200.2 to a DNA-1 Ultra Platinum, I can say without a doubt, it was not a step backward....but a jump forward.

I don't believe you can point the finger at the amp when you change the preamp and speakers at the same time. I would speculate the Maggie's just sound better, at least to my ears they do with the few that I've heard.

The McCormack will let you hear what changes you have made, by a wider margin than the B&K, not putting down the B&K, it's a fine amp....but the McCormack is safely a step above.
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