Downsizing thoughts - (Don't worry, it'll soon pass).
Posted by: dave marshall on 24 March 2017
It can't just be me, can it, when I sometimes look at the twin stacks of black boxes and wonder "what if"?
I know several folks on here have decided that a simpler two box system has a certain appeal, so I'd like to hear from you all as to whether you've had any pangs of regret since rationalising things.
I'm thinking of a 272, and retaining my 300DR, and one of the 555 power supplies, hence a four box setup.
It's an itch that needs to be scratched, so I may as well pester my dealer next week to borrow a 272 for a couple of weeks, and see for myself, but your thoughts would be most welcome.
Thanks in advance,
Dave.
greekspec2 posted:I believe the NDS/552 if I read correctly
That was my understanding too 
dave marshall posted:Sorry for the confusion, the NDS / 552 abides!
Excellent! Thanks for this test Dave - saved me moving some boxes around
Penarth Blues posted:dave marshall posted:This was as much a test of my ageing hearing, as it was a contest between black boxes, so there's not much point in spelling out perceived differences in sound between the two setups, as these are so room dependent, and we all hear things differently anyway.
It would still be good to hear them if you don't mind attempting to explain? Very few of us will ever be in a position to do this comparison and it would be good to know where the 272 falls back against the current reference boxes
Hi,
When everything was restored this morning, the strengths of the 552 / NDS once again became apparent.
The leading edge slam of drums, percussion and cymbals returned, the level of pick attack on guitars could be heard, and a piano was confirmed as being a percussion instrument after all.
The NDS / 552 combination simply paints a more "realistic" picture of the music, which, let's face it, at the price differential, so it should.
As I've said above though, the 272 performed way above any expectations I may have had, and, together with the NAP 300 and 555PS, was a system I would be more than happy to live with, had I arrived there via upgrading.
It was, really, a test of my imperfect hearing, and that, it seems, passed the test as well. 
It's the 552 
Good stuff Dave - you need to try these things. Anyway back to the Music Room for you
james n posted:Good stuff Dave - you need to try these things. Anyway back to the Music Room for you
Ah, back to the simple life ............... phew!
nigelb posted:Well Dave, it did soon pass as you predicted. But at least you took the time and made the effort to check out what a smaller box count can deliver. I am afraid you (or rather your ears) have been spoiled in a good way and there is no going back now.
Right, music recommendations now please!
Mind you, there's a Devialet 440 pro over on the Fishy place at the mo' ....................... no, don't go there!!!!
Music Room , yessir, .......... right now sir, ..................... well, tomorrow, anyway.