What preamp with McCormack DNA-125?

Go for the RLD-1. It's the best preamp McCormack makes and the best solid state preamp for the money. I've been very happy with it. It's fast, detailed, has great dynamics. Requires at least 60-100 hours of breakin to sound best. I'm running it with McCormack DNA-125, Philips SACD-1000 and Joseph Audio RM-25 Sig. speakers.

I like the RLD-1 too.

One of the most overlooked aspects of a preamp (and audio in general) is volume control. Properly setting the volume can be the difference in the music really speaking to you or annoying you. Many recordings have an optimal volume setting and your own mood at times can dictate a preferable volume setting.

It seems simple and obvious, but I guarantee that some of the differences one may hear in evaluating equipment is actually do to slight changes in volume control.

The RLD-1 has an excellent high-resolution volume control. It's digital display is addictive and allows you to make .5db adjustments per channel. It makes it so much easier to evaluate equipment when you know you are using the exact same volume setting. I can't see going back to the old dial. Noise wise, I don't notice a problem with this type of volume control either.

If the RLD-1 is out of your price range you should consider the McCormack TLC-1. They are quite easy to find used and about half the price of an RLD-1. It's a very highly regarded pre-amp that's a natural match for the McCormack amps.