I’m pretty sure that all these systems can be quite entertaining and surely there’s not limit to the concept “there’s always something better”. I think one has to decide what to buy according to the personal preference and how much money one wants to spend.
So the key point, I suppose, is understanding which presentation one might prefer, that could change a lot according to the speakers and general room setup. I love a wide soundstage and the same goes with details, but I wouldn’t enjoy them if they were exaggerated. Balance is always the key after all.
As soon as I have the opportunity, I will gladly compare the 202 and the 282. I don’t think I would ever go beyond that, but a 202 might be more mature compared to a SN and would allow easier upgrades, that’s something to consider.
I’m sure you are tempted by the 552, however you already have quite a system to enjoy. In my case I’m just starting to explore the Naim world as last year I bought the NDX 2 which I’m really appreciating.
Meanwhile I’m trying to understand and plan where I might want to land with my system!
I own a SN2 since 6 year and previously I only have owned separates during my “audiophile” life (apart when I was a boy). the original idea, when I swiched to SN2, was to reduce the number of boxes.
but, as you can immagine, I first added the XPSDR to CDX2 then the HCDR to SN2… and again I’m full of them!
at this point, adding one more wouldn’t be “disturbing”; that’s why I’m considering to pair my SN2 with a NAP 250DR or with a NAC 282, as first step to separates (282/250).
many do like this but, honestly, could it be the right path to separates?
I’m not really worried about the number of boxes to be honest, but I would like to follow the right path and make the right decision in the future. First of all I guess I need to understand whether I prefer the sound presentation of the Supernait or the 202 (or the 282?). After that I suppose things will be much easier. I’m fascinated by the idea of having separates, but it all comes down to the sound preference I guess.
Thanks very much for the replies - it is helpful to get others opinions. Still hovering at the moment - the main reason being I would regret taking the plunge if the updated 272 was released shortly after. But then again it might never come. Will probably try and hold off til mid year and fight the urge to impulse buy. If I do go 202/NDX2 then will definitely get a napsc.
That’s probably wise. The trouble is, you could wait six months, get the NDX2 and then the new 272 is announced the following week! The longer you wait the greater the probability of that happening becomes. When I swapped from a 272 in December I missed its lovely volume control at first. I’m now quite happy with the NDX2 and SN3. With my Tablettes it all works together very nicely.
@Analogmusic Somehow I got that impression too. I’m sure the 282 is better than the 202, I wouldn’t even try questioning that, but I wonder how much. Also it’s just a matter of priorities, personal preference and choice (aka how much money I’m willing to spend).
The NDX 2 is fantastic piece of kit in my opinion. It can be fine alone as well. However it’s nice to be able to upgrade it whenever one feels the urge to. And you can do that later.
As quality comes first for me, I can only agree.
I believe you can’t go wrong with that, I’m considering it too for the future.
I’ve got exactly what you are looking at plus NAPSC and HICAP DR. It’s an awesome combination and all I can say is that with the combo of switch, cables and speakers I’ve got, that it all works beautifully!
You are absolutely right, indeed a proper demonstration is the real turning point to decide whether it’s worth the price tag or no. Surely it’s a very personal decision and it also depends on both the room and speakers used.
On the other, High End Munich 2021 rescheduled to September
Whatever you do … just be sure. I’d probably not make the decision in summer shortly before Munich. But maybe we will know more by then. You certainly can be happy with either choice.
To better the pre within the excellent 272 you need to be looking at the 282 or wait for the so called 272.2, 372 if it appears.
I didn’t wait, sold the 272 and opted for the 282. The performance of the 282 is excellent, mine is still running in but from the off the 282 delivers.
Wish I had a 202 so I could pop it in instead of the 282. To see what the difference really is. I changed both 202/200DR to 282/250DR at the same time so haven´t really heard just the pre. The 282/250DR is better than 202/200DR. However it´s roughly twice the price.