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Rotel RB1080 vs Odyssey Stratos vs McCormack DNA

I recently purchased a used Rotel RB-1080, but I am not satisfy with it. It has a click sound occasionally due to expansion/contraction because I put it in a tight cabinet, although it doesn't affect my listening, but it bothers me. I am planning to get another amp around $800. I did some research and found 2 candidates - Odyssey Stratos and McCormack DNA-1. It seems both of them are in a different class. However, they also seems to be a lot older, the Rotel I have is 2 yrs old, while I found a 9 yrs old Odyssey for $800, and I believe the McCormack is even older. I believe the capacitors degrade over time, should I keep the newer Rotel, or go for the older Odyssey or McCormack? Which one would you pick?
gte357s
wizard454
51 posts
 
Hello,
Well I did listen to Rotel when I was looking to up grade, the Rotel although good seemed to have a very generic sound (mid-fi). I know the Odyssey is miles above the Rotel in both sound and internal parts quality. I was looking at both the Odyssey and the DNA-1 and settled on the Odyssey "Extreme" Mono's over the Mc. I only did this because I really wanted mono blocks. As for stereo units you will not go wrong in choosing either the Stratos or DNA. Plus both have great upgrade paths available and a great level of service.
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
4,152 posts
 
If you have a tight fit in your cabinet, the Odyssey amp is a MONSTER amp. If the Rotel fits tight, the Odyssey might not fit at all.

I agree that either the McCormack or the Odyssey will better your Rotel.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
I'd be patient and wait for a DNA-1 with SMc Audio upgrades to appear in the classifieds.

Or, depending on your budget, I'd buy a used DNA-1 and send it to Steve McCormack for an upgrade package.
gte357s OP
105 posts
 
Yes, good point, I need to check the dimensions. But I also read the Odyssey is supposed to be on 24/7, right? I think people said it is not hot, but does it has a standby mode? Does it consume electricity while it is on "standby"? I am afraid to see additional $30 on my bill even I am not listening.

For the DNA-1, if I send it for upgrade, it seems it will be out of my budget. Plus, it seems it is a much older model ... I am worry of seeing minor problems like popping or clicking noise .. it seems I am a perfectionist.
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