Hello folks,
Am thinking of upgrading my NAP250DR, it’s probably the weak link in my system. If anyone has actually made the comparison, (preferably without other system changes, to simplify the comparison) please could you post your findings ? My system is as per profile, so the power amp would be fed by NAC252.
I tried the Search function, which threw up a few threads with lots of opinions, but only a couple of actual comparisons.
Any comparisons of NAP350 vs NAP250DR also appreciated, although I suspect the NAP350 may be a bit much in my system.
A 300DR would be my choice. It’s a big step up over the 250DR and matches perfectly with the other boxes. It would be a good bit cheaper than a NC250 as well, and you won’t need to buy special leads to connect it up.
I had the 250.2, 300 dr, 250 dr and NC 250.
In my system, the NC 250 is quicker and more immediate vs the 300 dr, with more grip. But the 300 dr is fuller, more organic, with more meat on the bones. The bass has less snap but is weighter.
Whenever you ask a question like this, you can expect personal opinions from people whose systems and priorities may or may not bear any relation to your own. And beware expectation/confirmation bias on new/expensive purchases!
I’ve owned all the 250 from olive to current and the NC is the best of them all. If you like the OC sound and don’t mind adding more boxes I’d take advantage of the lower price s/h market and go 300.
Many thanks to all those who have replied, it’s much appreciated.
I’ve decided to investigate the 300dr route, as suggested by most, and hopefully can get my hands on a used one to demo. Initially I was reluctant to go this route because it will add another Fraim level, but I guess in the grand scheme of things it shouldn’t really matter. It also means I won’t have to buy an expensive din to xlr cable which the NC250 would need.
