Uniti vs Nac-N 172 xs and Nap250.2

They are hardly in the same price bracket so perhaps not a fair comparision.

I have not heard either of your suggested combinations but a used NDX and Supernait2 would be what I would be auditioning.

Richard

Thanks - that was my other consideration actually. Although used price 1k more or so.

J

A Uniti? There are 4 different models in the range. The top one costs a little more than a 250, so on value wins by a landslide, but on sq maybe the pre power is imbalanced.

The 172's logical partner is the 155xs. As it seems you already have a Uniti, the NDX and Supernait 2 combination is where you might want to look if you want a substantial improvement.

I heard a 172 playing into a NAP300 into a pair Kudos Titans yesterday and I was genuinely suprised at how good  it sounded, it was playing out Opera - often quite unforgiving.. so from my expierience of yesterday I'd say you can partner the 172 with a wide range of components.

Simon

To the best of my knowledge, the streaming and DAC sections of the  NAC-N 172 XS are essentially the same as the Uniti 2.  I would suggest the most logical upgrade routes are

NDX + SN2

Uniti + 202 + 200

Uniti + 250.2

Using a NAC-N 172 will give you fewer analogue inputs than the Uniti has (same 4 digital inputs).

Best thing to do is to listen to all these as they may well sound quite different.

hi. I don't think that nap155xs is the best partner for nac n172. I know they are supposed to be but my experience is diff. I sold my nap155 and got manley mahi tube monoblocks and sound quality went up so much that I can finally appreciate my little pre amp. So I recommend to everyone interested in nac n172 checking other power amps! 

I felt in love with manley tubes (also had the stingray for some days) and just could not say no. But I also regret not checking other naps. Maybe one day.