Old 250 and old 32 question

Posted by: Number 5 on 18 January 2003

I came across three pieces of used equipment and I need some advice. I am sure I could sift through the old threads and figure this out however.....

1. The 250 serial number 3XXX is about 20 years old and may or may not have been recapped. I am currently using a nap 90. Would there be a big difference in sound between the 250 and the 90 and is purchasing an older amp a concern?

2. The NAC32 serial #9XX has RCA inputs on the back. IS this a modification or did the 32 have RCA's.

3.The hicap serial 45XXX is made in 1988. How will this sound compared to newer equipment.

Thanks #5

Posted on: 19 January 2003 by MarkEJ

1. Yes, it will sound different, and probably better. However, the 250 is more revealing, and may well sound worse if it turns out to reveal problems originating upstream -- ie from source or preamp. Other than the fact that it will need recapping (unless it's recently been done), sheer age is of no particular concern. Our power amps are 2xxx and 3xxx -- no problems.

2. I think some people had NAC32's modded by dealers (RCAs added). Mod it back -- no problem!

3. It will sound slightly different rather than better or worse than newer HiCaps. Either is infinitely preferable to no HiCap at all. Don't lose sleep over it -- a HiCap of this age is one the best VFM upgrades you can do. 90UKP IIRC for a recap -- well worth it, but you can survive without it and plan for it later. No problem.

Actually, if you don't have a remote control fetish, just about any used Naim gear from early 80s onwards is close to unbeatable in terms of the overall deal (reliability, fixabiltiy, depreciation, music).

Best;

Mark

Posted on: 19 January 2003 by Willy

Number 5,

Strange name, ever thought of sueing your parents?

Originally 32's had RCA sockets. At some point in time (early 1980's) Naim changed to BNC's. All should sound better than good though a service will improve things.

Regards

Willy.