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NAD 3020 or C326BEE Integrated? Help me choose.

I have the opportunity to buy a restored/serviced 3020 in excellent condition or a like new 326BEE amplifier for essentially the same $$$.  I have a set of Klipsch RB-61 speakers and an Onkyo C-7030 CD player.  

Which would you choose and why?


Thank you for your input!
34dean
philjolet's avatar
philjolet
2,306 posts
 
I have owned a 3020 and 325BEE and the 3020 is thick and has limited extension at the freq extremes not to mention less detail in comparison

the 3020 is smooth/euphonic but I would not recommend it in this case.
randy-11
1,913 posts
 
The NAD 3020 was widely acclaimed in its day and often makes the "best ever" lists for the history of amps or integrateds.  That doesn't mean it is better than top unit of today, but doesn't mean it is worse either.

you had better listen to both of them to see... 
mesch
3,529 posts
 
It is my opinion that at $250, a good condition 326BEE is easily the better deal. If later you decide you want a different amp you would be able to sell it without loss.
34dean OP
37 posts
 
I am still torn.  My thinking is if I can get the 3020 at my strike price, I will try it knowing that a mint condition restored example is easily flippable.  If i can't get it at the price I want, I will go with the 326BEE and pay a little more for it if needed.  
mesch
3,529 posts
 
A refurbished 3020 would certainly be flippable, depending on the 'strike price'. A 326BEE in good condition would also be an easy sell at $250. They are running ~$350 used now.
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