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McCormack DNA-1 vs Odyssey Stratus vs Marsh 400

I am thinking about trying to upgrade my front end amp. I am running 2 of 5 channel from my Rotel 1095 (200WPC) to my Proac Studio 200.

My budget. I am trying to stay below $1K for the amp any a mid-level aftermarket power cord (Am using VH Flavor 4). That said my budget is around $750 -$850.

After reading thru several forums McCormack DNA-1 or DNA-1 deluxe, the Odyssey Stratus Plus or Extreme and the Marsh A400s all appear to be viable options. I need your help. Which of these would you recommend and why? Any other suggestions?
sempaul
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hoopster
184 posts
 
You may be able to find a nice McCormack DNA-125 for under $1K unless you need the extra power. I highly recommend the 125.
kt_88
242 posts
 
From memory I think the McCormack was a bit sweeter than the Aragon. I think the McCormack had a bit more bass as well. But it has been a few years. Haven't heard Odyssey but I think they are completely different from the 2 fore mentioned amps. If what I read is correct they would be much smoother than those mentioned. Marsh is also different from those mentioned ( IHMO ) It would fit in between the McCormack and the Odyssey. Don't know what your pre is but I needed a tube pre with the McCormack to tame it a little. And Proac might be a bit bright with McCormack. That amp will jump out and get ya!
sempaul OP
22 posts
 
I'm running a Rotel 1066 pre-proc in 2ch mode most of the time but need it for 5.1 when I play DVD's. Am using a Denon 3910 as a universal player. Acoustic Zen Hologram II speakers cables and all Neotech 7N UPOCC silver I/C's (these are supposedly identical to AZen Absolutes). I want my Proacs to completely disappear. I want the deepest and widest soundstage possible (don't we all). Hope this helps benchmark what I'm working with.
kt_88
242 posts
 
Sempaul,

If you want your Proacs to completely disappear. ( which I don't think is possible ) then I would shift over to tubes. I have never heard proacs sound as good as when I have listened to them on a tube setup.

However if your are bent on your direction, you might try the Marsh with your pre. However I would add CJ and Classe to your list if I were you. I think Classe would beat out any of the amps mentioned with your pre. And as they say with CJ " It just sounds right " And both of these companies have been around quite a long time. Service wont be a problem.

Of course in the end you will need to finally take the time to listen to some different amps. Our opinions are based on our listening experiences and our likes and dislikes.
jerrym303
54 posts
 
I can't tell you about the Oddyssey, but I owned a Rotel 200 watt (980?) a while back and I'm now using a DNA-1. Huge difference. Cleaner and sweeter.

Those Rotels are powerhouses, the DNA-1 will not be as powerful. You should keep the Rotel for your rears.

If the DNA-1 turns out not to be warm enough for you, try a Belles next.

Jerry
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