I had my DNA-1 Deluxe upgraded by SMc Audio 21 years ago. The improvements were considerable resulting in a more refined, nuanced sound yet with much more responsive dynamics. Music really came to life. Last year, the 20th anniversary of the original upgrades I called Steve on a whim just to pick his brain about what had been happening with their upgrades for the last two decades. Steve's story to tell was quite compelling. He had the good fortune of running across some well healed audiophiles who wanted the best regardless of cost leading him to have to carefully consider such a challenge. High customer expectations! Steve talked of all SMc was able to learn about the possible and fortunately many of those innovative circuit designs were able to trickle down to the amps of those of us who have budget constraints.
So away my amp went again! Once back and run in a bit, for what I paid, I realized what a bargain SMc had offered me. Now a finely polished diamond was amplifying with authority across the frequency spectrum. The soundstage or space was as vast or limited as intended by the recording artist. A fantastic value! I will never part with this amp. Is it the best amp one can get? Who knows? I'm sure there are many designs that are its sonic equal or maybe even better but as I listen to the vinyl of Pink Floyd "The Later Years" enveloped in a vast wash of great tunes I just relax and enjoy as the music takes over the room. Good stuff indeed.