Naim 150x/122x compared with the present range.

Closer to XS, but not quite as capable as 152/155. This is primarily due to the 152 being a better preamp. Yes, the 155 is a little better than the 150X, but the 152 is where the bigger difference is to be found if I recall correctly.

The problem the 152/155 faces is the existence of the Supernait. When you factor in the complete cost of 152/155/FlatcapXS, the Supernait2 becomes a serious consideration as it's in the next level up of performance.

Frank.

Some have found and rated 122x/150x greater than 152/155.

Chag -

Chag... posted:

Some have found and rated 122x/150x greater than 152/155.

Have they?

If a FCXS was added to either combo and in the case of the 152XS/ 155XS, both outputs of the supply were put on the pre, then I would be very surprised if that was the case.

C.

It would be helpful to know what's behind Ink's question. Is it merely academic, or is an upgrade being considered? 

I thought the same HH. The last we heard was that ink was off to audition the SN2....

C.

The reason behind my question was to try and understand where my existing system sits compared with Naims present range. Over the years there's been considerable changes in the model numbers, and this can be expected, it is the same with many manufacturers. 

So it has been useful to make some sense by asking the question and thanks too for the responses.

Well, there's not been that many changes! Since your 122/150x, there has been ony one model change of your units to 152/155XS. No matter where it sits in Naim's range, your amp remains what it is, and that's a good amplifier. There was a big change between the 112 and 122 where the latter went to a volume pot (the 112 had a resistor ladder). However, the basic design wasn't changed that much. The 152 is quite a bit different from the 122 which is why it can take the 2 power supply feeds.

However, as I said before, the problem the 152/155 faces is the Supernait2. The vanilla 152/155 is only 18%-odd cheaper than the Supernait2. The fully packed 152/155/fcxs with the extra SNAIC is around 15% more than the Supernait2. On the other hand the Supernait2 gets you into the Classic range, has tremendous performance, is just one box, and is upgradeable. To me, the 152/155 can't compete with that.

Frank.

The other advantage that the 152 XS has compared to the 122x is the change made to the gain structure, which provides more useful range and lower distortion, channel imbalance, etc.

Also - the power supply arrangement provides potentially better performance than a NAC 202 IMHO, when fully tricked out. It's the entry-level preamp that Naim should have made fifteen years ago....

DavidDever posted:

Also - the power supply arrangement provides potentially better performance [from a NAC152XS] than a NAC 202 IMHO, when fully tricked out.

Eeeek! Now that, I don't want to hear!

C.

Christopher_M posted:

DavidDever posted:

Also - the power supply arrangement provides potentially better performance [from a NAC152XS] than a NAC 202 IMHO, when fully tricked out.

Eeeek! Now that, I don't want to hear!

C.

152 and a pair of Supercaps?  Or will a FCXS + HCDR achieve FTO status?  

Nick