I just replaced my NSC222 with a Grimm Mu2. The Grimm Mu2 is superb blah blah blah. I will likely start a separate thread about it. However, the NSC222-vs-Mu2 comparison has exposed not how “bad” the NSC222 is, but rather how excellent it is.
This front-end swap is happening as part of an overall system change. I am now using a Gryphon Antileon Evo amp – Class A, ultra-high-current delivery – to feed my Magico A5 speakers. For about a week I ran the Gryphon direct from the NSC222. In Naim terms, this is like going 222→500DR.
NSC222→Gryphon sounded GREAT. The step-up provided by the Gryphon amp was clearly audible via the NSC222. And yes, of course, everything now sounds great-er with the Mu2 … as it should, given that the Mu2 is ~3x the price of the NSC222.
My point though is that the NSC222 held its own. At no point was I thinking “meh” or “there’s something missing.” The 222-driven system sounded really, really good!
Also, there are not a few areas where the NSC222 exceeds the Grimm. Ergonomics are much better: the Naim app is intuitive and easy; Grimm doesn’t have an app, just a web interface that’s usable but feels dated by about 25 years. Naim seems to have mastered mute-on-transition for sample rate changes when streaming; Grimm hasn’t yet. I’m not sure, but I think that the 222’s headphone amp may be better than the Grimm’s? And with the Grimm I have had to buy a separate phono preamp box.
In my view, the NSC222 is one of the really prime pieces of Naim kit. I’m surprised that it doesn’t get more love here.
I absolutely love my 222 and my 250 and as I have retired it is my endgame system. Together with my ProAc D2R’s it just a lovely system. Unlike others I found the effect of an NPX 300 was minimal and not worth the money, Burndy hassle etc.
So I’m a very happy bunny with a 2 box system. Incidentally, my brother has a v high end, esoteric, vinyl based system and has always hated Naim as he said it gave him a headache. Goes to Munich show every year etc etc. He also loves the 222/250 and says it is the first Naim system he has ever really liked
Apologies for the late reply - a thumbs up for the 222 here. I’ve been running one bare into ATC50ASLs since November and it sounds great. Although it developed a left channel fault in January so I’m having to slum it with a Linn Selekt DSM Organik as a loaner meantime while awaiting a replacement (It’s a tough life ..). Haven’t been able to do a side by side comparison with the Linn but this also sounds great (as it should given it’s 50% more expensive).
One of the many characteristics to praise in the NSC222, is that it just works.
The increased stability of the control interface was something that stood out for me going from the ND5 XS2 to the NSC222. I’m appreciating again how well the 222 does on this dimension as I transition to the Grimm Mu2 (which has other virtues, but not so much this one.)
Firstly consider the naim new classic / uniti high points of an easily accessible control interface that the whole family can use, a design that looks properly considered rather than knocked together in a shed and an ability to make streaming “just work”. The ownership value proposition of the current range really is very high.
Then add in the 222 specific functional capabilities within one box and it is a real winner, even in my ‘work in progress’ system it is a highlight at the end of every day to kick back and play a bunch of tunes. It really does give a fantastic musical performance.
For my room size (and budget) the 222 is the sweet spot. To go up to 300 series with power supplies, phono amp and perhaps monoblocks would be way too imposing for my room. The Nova that I also use is a great product but not close to the 222 in musical delivery.
Caspians are the original version from late 1990s. The integrated has links in the back that you can pull out to deactivate the pre amp section so that it functions as a power amp. I am using them as two power amps to biamp the speakers.
This aIso has the useful benefit of reserving the space for two boxes on the shelf so one day when funds allow I can use that space for a nap250 and an npx300 and retire the Caspians.
I’ve had my 222/250 combo for over 2 years and I’m totally satisfied with the results. I previously ran a SuperUniti and thought that was good, but the new system brought a huge sound with real bass depth. I upgraded the std xlr leads with Chord cables and bought a Chord M6 into which everything is plugged including the router and switch.
I would like to get a 300 power supply but I don’t have the space on my sideboard. Wonder if i can stack it…?
Anyone compared the phono stage of the NSC222 with a Linn Selekt DSM? Have a majik spec LP12 that I just want to keep a moving magnet cartridge on. Have read positive reviews of folk with high spec turntables into supernait phono, just haven’t seen as much on NSC222 phono so any item appreciated. Long term plan is one of these streamer/pre amps into active speakers
I auditioned the Selekt DSM Edition configured with dual power amp cartridges and Organik DAC’s as a one-box alternative to the 222/300/250 combination.
The Linn lacked depth and dynamics by comparison, but of course is a one-box solution! Will try a line out/Organik into active speakers in due course, this being a well considered solution by many here.
Don’t forget to try the NSC222 line out into active speakers at the same time. I’d be wary about going down the Linn route if you love the Naim sound. They are different.
Personally I had another hearing related reason to move from a full fat Olive system to something more modest and the Linn just happened to fit the bill for me but others have written on here of buyers remorse etc.
Good luck with your search and look forward to hearing your findings.
.
?