@cheeg I've had my DNA-1 Deluxe for 22 years. I had it upgraded by SMc Audio 20 years ago and after realizing it had been that long, I contacted Steve to see what he might do to upgrade and update it. As it turns out, he explained that over the last few years he has had some well-healed clients ask him to build them ne plus ultra amps. In the process of meeting their desires he discovered new ways to improve the DNA line. Suffice it to say that I sent my amp. to him and just about every component of the amp save the transformer and Nichicon Goldtune output capacitors was upgraded. The amp I received back was entitled, "Gold Special". The McCormack name badge was replaced with an SMc badge.
If the originally modded amp was a diamond, the Gold Special is a finely polished diamond of nearly perfect color and no occlusions. It passes every bit of the musical source with no added distortion. The openness and clarity, the bass attack and woody resonance of a string bass are all there. I will never part with this amplifier!
Steve, Patrick and the rest of the SMc crew execute their work with care and precision. If you allow them the opportunity to work on your's you will not be disappointed.
If the originally modded amp was a diamond, the Gold Special is a finely polished diamond of nearly perfect color and no occlusions. It passes every bit of the musical source with no added distortion. The openness and clarity, the bass attack and woody resonance of a string bass are all there. I will never part with this amplifier!
Steve, Patrick and the rest of the SMc crew execute their work with care and precision. If you allow them the opportunity to work on your's you will not be disappointed.