2. amps-preamps
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NCore vs. Ice -- single or separate cases

Hey guys,

I've recently gotten a bug that I can't shake. I went to sleep thinking about it last night.

I want to try out a class D amp.

I've narrowed my choices down to something based on either the NCore NC400 or the IcePower 125asx2.

If I went the way of the NC400, I'll be building them myself. If I went the way of the Ice, I may build it myself or just buy the assembled units. Either way, the NC400 builds will run about twice that of the Ice builds.

Is there anyone out there that can comment on which is better? If the answer is that the NC400 is better, is it worth twice the price?

My next question is whether I should build the mono units into separate boxes or a single box? In other words, is it better to use a longer interconnect with a short speaker cable or vice versa?

Thanks.
tonyangel
guidocorona
4,114 posts
 
Tony, my own direct experience is with Ncore NC1200-based amps.... They are musical instruments... rather than "not bad for a class D".

By the way, my very first high-end amp was an Aragon 4004 during 1984 or so... Unless one thrives with nostalgia, most circuits today, including Ncore of course, would leave the brave old thing buried in the dust. G.
guidocorona
4,114 posts
 
Tony, if you decide to use one single power supply, you better check with Hypex before you do.... Last thing you want to do is to damage both modules in one fell swoop.... Mr. Putzeys designed the power supplies to serve one module each. G.
wilsynet's avatar
wilsynet
264 posts
 
You want both power supplies. One of the key aspects of a good amplifier is a robust power supply, and having independent power supplies is a good thing indeed.

How does it compare to NAD? Compared to a 325BEE (or whatever designation they're using today), it isn't even close. The NAD masters series would compare more favorably if their M51 DAC is anything to go by.

Would be good to know what you're using as a preamp.
tonyangel OP
309 posts
 
The pre amp I'm using is an NAD C162.
wilsynet's avatar
wilsynet
264 posts
 
What sources are you using?

I think the preamp is going to hold you back. If you only have digital sources, something like the NAD C390DD would be a better overall buy for you.

Or if you already have great sources or analog sources, a second hand integrated at $2000 would be a better bet than a the NC400 paired with the C162. Unless of course you're planning to change out the C162 at some point.

A very good indeed integrated that can be had used for around $2000 is the LFD MK3 or MK4.

I've run my NC400 direct to amp from the NAD M51 (excellent) and also with the Coincident Statement Linestage (even more excellent).

Anyway, my opinion only. Take it for what you will.
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