NAD 2200 -vs- NAD C270

[mouettus]

Is it a fair comparison first?

Trying to put along with a C 320BEE pre-amp (50w integrated) here. It would be powering a pair of Energy C-100 bookshelves (hooked on my computer for music use only) and sometimes a pair of PolkAudio Rti8. The 2200 is pretty old though... (1986)... I was a new born at that time lol.

Speaker specs:
Energy speakers: http://www.energy-speakers.com/v2/products/product-specs.php?id=294
PolkAudio speakers: http://www.polkaudio.com/homeaudio/specs/rti8/

Amp specs:
2200: http://207.228.230.231/info/NAD_2200.pdf
C270: http://207.228.230.231/info/NAD_C270.pdf#search="nad c270 specs" (hit reload in the new browser window if it doesn't work)

I think I'll fall for the C270 because of its 20wpc more for my hungry Polks and the fact that the amp is a much more recent model but I just wanted to have opinions from you guys.

 

[mouettus]

Anyone?....

Come on guys! I know you can handle that question!

 

[Newfiestang50]

I have the two newer versions of the C270, the C372 & C272, great sound with loads of dynamic headroom and don't be fooled by the rated power of, they have a reputation of sounding much more potent. I currently use my C272 bridged to provide 400 watts to my sonosub and it is unbelievable. I also have a friend that has the 270 and it sounds as good as my 272 with almost as much power, go with the 270. Just my $.02

 

[bdesousa]

I have the c272 and the 2200. Both are great amps. I use the 2200 for front channel in my NAD 763 home theatre setup as it has better dynamics than the c272, but still has a nice sound. While a very nice amp, smooth, powerful, etc... it muddies music a bit (poorer imaging, smaller soundstage, less transparent). The c272 sounds less veiled, cleaner at volume, but does not have the same kick in loud transients. Incidentally, the 763 is also nice, but I found the sound a bit harsh/bright with lots of hash at volume. I cannot not listen to U2 for example using the 763 to power the fronts as it is harsh and fatiguing. Swithcing to the 2200, it becomes warmer and very listenable with tons of kick. However, the instruments blur together. Going to the 272, the music take on depth and more detail without the bright/harsh characteristics of the 763.

If cost is an issue, go for the 2200 - you will be very happy with it. If cost is not an issue, go for the 272 as it brings out the texture a bit better.


Having said all of that - I have a 2200 if you want one... would like let it go for about $225ish.

 

[googdot]

I second the C272 - great value and much better imaging than the 2200 imho.