Pre-amp advice
Posted by: hiace_drifter on 07 April 2018
Hi all. A while back I had an olive NAC82 and NAP150x. They were used with Rega Saturn CD and Rega R5 speakers. I loved the sound (it was my first and only Naim system).
Due to various house moves I've ended up with a black NAP200 and no pre-amp (same CD and speakers).
What are the recommended preamps to partner the NAP200? How would they compare to the NAC82? If I get a NAC52 for instance can i work up to a Supercap?
Posted on: 07 April 2018 by Ardbeg10y
For a nac52 you must have a 52ps or a supercap.
I funds are limited - which I had after my housemove, you could consider a nac72 which can be powered by your nap200. Later on you can add a hicap to upgrade.
Posted on: 07 April 2018 by NJB
I had a 202 with my 200, and although not regarded as the best pre-amp, they do work well together.
Posted on: 07 April 2018 by hiace_drifter
Just thought of another idea... I'd like to progress to a Supercap... If I STARTED with one what's the cheapest preamp that would work with it?
Posted on: 07 April 2018 by Ardbeg10y
Some of the older gear. Personally I would go for the 72, which can be had under 400 GBP and probably outperforms the 202 and is in good shape for that price.
Posted on: 07 April 2018 by Willy
I've used both the 32.5 (upgraded with 72 boards) and a 102 with a supercap. Both worked well. My preference was for the 32.5 but given that they sound different I can accept that someone may prefer the 102.
In the fulness of time upgraded to a 52.
Willy.
Posted on: 07 April 2018 by Antonio1
Posted on: 07 April 2018 by lyndon
The 52 is a real game changer, going from a 32.5 to the 52 is the biggest upgrade I’ve ever done and I’ve done a few
the 552DR is very clever gives an extra level of detail and refinement but didn’t have anywhere near the same impact on me as getting the 52
try and look for a 52/52PS rather than a supercap and look for a Pots 8 upgrade but the 52/PS is the main one
Lyndon
Posted on: 08 April 2018 by Adam Zielinski
Just go for the best pre-amp you can afford.
Please bear in mind that it’s the pre-amp that defines and shapes the overall sound of the system.
Posted on: 08 April 2018 by antony d
i have used all three pre with my 200 - 202,282,252, - the best matched were the 202 & 282
i would as Adam says put the most yoc can in - the 252 & 200 was not a balance IMO so my choice would be 282
Posted on: 08 April 2018 by cdboy
Find a 202. Then don't forget the benefits the NAPSC brings. Cheapest upgrade in the book.
