Van Alstine SS vs. McCormack DNA amps

Can't say much about McCormack amps, never needed to go there... but I don't understand how someone could object to Van Alstine customer service? I've had excellent service from there, and plenty of other people say as much (which is how I decided to take the plunge with their products).

The build quality of Van Alstine pieces is not meant to be the eye candy that passes for "high quality" among too many audiophiles nowadays, but the units are built to last for a long, long time. The emphasis is not on magic components, but on correct circuit topology. Frank does not completely explain how he does it, but a glance at the literature tells you that, at least, he knows how to do the required math.

Obviously it's not for everybody, but I thank my lucky stars that I stumbled on such a good line of equipment. Saved a lot of money, a lot of time, but most importantly, the total lack of BS from Frank is pretty priceless. Just as an example, if you find yourself with audiophile anxiety over your cables or power cords, just talk to Frank and you'll soon be over it.

Gra3--the reason I felt the need to weigh in is that your post contradicted my direct experience in a pretty drastic way. Unfortunately, your second post does not really merit any further response, you clearly have personal issues both with Frank and anyone that has had an excellent experience with him. I am a little surprised that you imagine that the original poster or anyone else is interested in listening to such an attitude.

In any case, Jimheard, let me encourage you to take a look at one of the Van Alstine hybrid tube/ss amps, they are not tubey in any bad way and you are still "solid". Frank's solid state gear is good, but the unconventional tube/ss hybrid is where you get to see a bit of the genius.

One straightforward option is to pick up the phone and call both designers, btw. That should clarify things that may seem muddied by someone's personal issues here.