Can anyone compare Ion/Naim/Exposure for me?
Here's my story, bear with me please!: I recently acquired a little
Nytech CA202, which is every bit as rich and musical as I'd heard it
was. I compared to a Rotel of the same era, and although not as
detailed, it had none of the Rotel's "transistory" sound. In this, it
kind of reminded me of a tube amp (I like tube amps, but I don't like
the idea of changing tubes). I have yet to compare the Nytech to my
Musical Fidelity A100, because I loaned that to a friend. I wouldn't be
surprised if it gives the A100 a run for its money.
The Nytech got me interested in better amps of the same type, that is,
which use DIN sockets. I heard the word "legendary" applied to Nytech's
next incarnation, the Ion Obelisk, so that really got me interested in
the Ion. I have a chance to purchase an Ion Obelisk, a Naim NAP
110/42.5 (better than a Nait?), and maybe an Exposure XX (is XV or one
of the other older ones better?).
I have no idea how these different integrated or combo DIN-type amps
comapre to each other, sound-quality wise. I know they all are known
for "PRAT", and the Exposures are apparently a little drier in the
bass, with more soundstage/detail than comparative Naims.
I'm interested in whatever is most "musical" above all.... (most
engaging).
How about an even sillier question for the Chip Amp afficiandos: Do you
think that crazy $30 Sonic Impact T Amp can outperform any of the above
amps, musically speaking?
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