Posted on: 21 November 2016 by ryder.
Interesting discussion. From NAC 202 and NAP 300 DR to NAC 282 and NAC 252. I can surely relate to some of the comments on the "over exuberance" of the NAC 282. I own both NAC 202 and NAC 282 and having compared both, I can certainly understand where the comments are coming from. The NAC 282 does sound eager and enthusiastic next to the NAC 202. The 282 is a dynamic sounding preamp and sounds colourful and much larger than life when compared to the 202 which sounds pale or flatter in comparison. One could say the 202 is more neutral sounding than the (overly enthusiastic) 282. Nevertheless, I do appreciate the exuberance, verve and dynamics of the 282 in my system.
Having said that, the 202 is still a great sounding preamp. If there are no upgrade plans, it makes sense to not audition the 282. It's the same thing with the 252 or 552. Once you compare the preamps, you will then realise the "shortcomings" of the lesser preamp and will find ways to acquire the better sounding one. (usually the costlier preamp will sound better so you will need to spend money)
