Going to a 552?

Posted by: Zipperheadbanjo on 19 November 2015

Hi All,

 

I have an opportunity to pick up a dealer demo 2013 552 + 552 PS DR with about 300 hours of use on it. Cost is about 55-60% of retail. I would inherit the remaining 3 years of warranty on the unit.

 

I'd like some feedback if those on the forum believe it would work well with my gear (i.e. not be unbalanced). It would be fed by a Rega RP 10 + Superline / Hicap, and a Naim NDX>Chord Hugo TT (these are my primary sources). My amp is a 2013 250-2 which I plan on DR'ing at some point in 2016. Interconnects are Naim Hilines... speaker cable is Naca5... speakers are Proac D30R's.

 

I have no intention of ever moving to a larger amp, as my listening space is relatively small, but acoustically treated... I  don't need anything more powerful than a 250-2.

 

I had never even considered the possibility of moving to a 552 preamp as the price new is just too hard to justify. That said, the price is right with this demo unit, and 552's come up on the used market very rarely... especially a 552 with so little mileage on it.

 

I can afford it... no remortgaging or taking a loan required (or stealing from the kids college funds).

 

Thoughts appreciated... note that a demo isn't possible... although I can get a 30 day window to return the unit if it's not to my taste.

 

 

 

 

Posted on: 03 December 2015 by Zipperheadbanjo

Thought I should update the post now that the I've made a final decision. I will not be adding the demo 552... just too pricey regardless of the steep discount.

Instead I am going to demo a new 252 and upgrade some interconnects. Will use the difference to put new doors on the house we just moved into in July.

Posted on: 03 December 2015 by Clay Bingham

Good for you. The world is awash in debt. Nice to see someone with self control. The  252 is great in it's own right. Enjoy.

Posted on: 03 December 2015 by Harry

Nice amp the 252. Very nice indeed at its price point.

I wish you big fun with it.

Posted on: 03 December 2015 by Darke Bear
Zipperheadbanjo posted:

.. Will use the difference to put new doors on the house we just moved into in July.

That does seem more sensible. Never borrow loads of money for HiFi it there are outstanding debts.

DB.

Posted on: 03 December 2015 by Zipperheadbanjo

There is no money borrowing involved in this equation. I'd never borrow to purchase gear.

Posted on: 03 December 2015 by Steve J

Good luck with your choice zipperhead. In the end it comes down to what fit's best in life.