SMc AudioDNA-2 LAEusedSMc Audio DNA-2 LAE 2014 Signature EditionThe DNA-2 was special in the McCormack line-up for providing all the sonic attributes of the other DNA amplifiers but also adding world class bass. This DNA-2 Limited Anniversary Edition (LAE) was...5950.00

SMc Audio DNA-2 LAE 2014 Signature Edition

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Condition
8/10
Payment methods
Ships fromKalamazoo, MI, 49008
Ships toUnited States
Package dimensions32.0" × 28.0" × 20.0" (95.0 lbs.)
Shipping carrierUPS
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Original accessoriesBox, Manual
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The DNA-2 was special in the McCormack line-up for providing all the sonic attributes of the other DNA amplifiers but also adding world class bass. This DNA-2 Limited Anniversary Edition (LAE) was McCormack Audio's very top model, the best of the best. Originally designed by David Reich of Classe' and Theta fame, less than 100 DNA-2 LAE amps were produced. They were constructed using the very best parts, including, thicker output circuit boards (.080" vs. .062"), Caddock and Vishay resistors, Harris soft-recovery diodes for the front-end circuitry, a massive Plitron toroidal transformer and a thick front faceplate.

Less than a year ago, Steve McCormack spared no expense to rebuild this amplifier into his best sounding DNA-2 ever, and one of the best amplifiers he has ever produced. Steve used many top quality parts such as Jupiter Copper Foil capacitors in key locations, Lundahl transformers, Cardas copper binding posts, and a captive Neotech PC-OCC power cord with a Furutech plug. If the buyer desires, a chassis mount IEC can easily be installed, although it would be hard to improve on the Neotech cord. This is a dual mono amplifier with both balanced and single ended inputs. The balanced configuration is accomplished using the high end Lundahl transformers.

In my system, the sound is stunning, with full, powerful bass, clear mid and high frequencies, dense tonal colors, and excellent soundstaging and dimensionality. Clarity and resolution are outstanding and the noise floor is as low as I have heard (or not heard!). The dynamics and power from this amp seem virtually limitless. Turn up the volume and the sound gets louder, but always musical. The amp never runs out of steam when pushing my big Aerial speakers. This is also one of the best low-level listening amps I have owned. To me, this amplifier clearly sounds better than the DNA-500 and is among the best sounding amplifiers I have owned. I am only selling this because I also own another (more expensive) pair of amplifiers that are equally good sounding and slightly better suited for my situation.

The DNA-2 LAE is a class A/B solid state amplifier that puts out at least 300 wpc into 8 ohms and 600 wpc into 4 ohms. Input impedance is 10K ohms so a good solid state preamp is recommended, although some tubed preamps will also work fine. This is a wide bandwidth amp that is listed as down 3dB at 0.5 Hz and at 200KHz. It has a standby function that allows the amplifier to remain powered up and ready for use without a substantial warm-up period. This feature was very desirable to me.

I have rated this amplifier "8/10" for age only as it looks great and operates perfectly. Because the upgrade included a detailed review of the entire amplifier, and replacement/upgrade of many key parts, this amp should provide exceptional sound for many years. The front panel was powder coated as part of the upgrade in 2014 and the entire amplifier is in excellent condition. The dedicated Sound Anchor amplifier stand shown in the pictures is in as-new condition and is available at a low additional price to whoever purchases the amp.

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