2. amps-preamps
  3. 1070758461

Pre-amp to combo with Mccormack DNA 0.5

Just bought the Mccormack DNA 0.5, after ALOT of research. Thank you all who helped me choose.
Anyway, my second step on the upgrade now will be to buy a pre-amplifier. I have some cheap options available, but I want something that will make me satisfied for years to come, so research, again is necessary.

My "easy" options are:

Mccormack TLC-1 ($500) - Same brand, some say it'd be a good match, some say it's passive and has got no personality. I heard it myself and liked it, but no pre-outs, meaning I'd not be able to plug my Rel Strata II subwoofer in it. No remote either.

Carver C-4000 ($200) - Legendary choice, don't know much about it, except it's a classic.

QED Vector Reference ($600) - Another passive unit, at least this one gives me a remote.

Basically I need something that will make my sound better, or at least not change it. And then some pre-outs would be good, Remote is a plus only. Price tag can't surpass $900, and territorial limitations should be respected, as I live in Brazil and cannot get certain brands.

Any of you has a suggestion?
jmabe

Showing 1 response by labtec

labtec
189 posts
 
You should be able to get a TLC-1 for less than $500. Passives are not for everyone though. While passives are tempting to those on a tight budget, generally it's a bigger crap shoot. Definitely try both actives and passives with the rest of your system before you buy.

Frankly, for your max budget of $900, I'd see if you could get a good deal on a used McCormack RLD-1 or Rogue preamp. (I think they both have a second set of outputs for your sub and also a remote.) At their price points, you are very well set.

Also, I know Steve McCormack is now modding the RLD-1 and, of course, your DNA.5, so you'd have alot of versatility in the future as your budget and needs allows.
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