Honashagen, With the L1, initially you need to set the gain control half way up (12 o clock) as recommended by the mfg and go from there. Also if you want to increase dynamics, the McCormack is not that bass heavy, certainly not Krell-like. You have two pairs of outputs on the L1, why not use one pair for an active subwoofer, just make sure it is a musical sub with tight and tuneful bass.
You mentioned components you used to own like the Crown and how you remembered you liked the presentation a lot. Let me say this, each and every time I revisited older components that I used to be fond of, I left disappointed and it turned out that what I currently have was superior. If you were to sell the upgraded McCormack and AI preamp there would be an over wehlming response from buyers as these two components are not seen for sale lately.
You mentioned components you used to own like the Crown and how you remembered you liked the presentation a lot. Let me say this, each and every time I revisited older components that I used to be fond of, I left disappointed and it turned out that what I currently have was superior. If you were to sell the upgraded McCormack and AI preamp there would be an over wehlming response from buyers as these two components are not seen for sale lately.