Which NAD amp??

Geph0007 wrote "Did you compare the 370 and 372 amp sections to the 216?"

Unfortunately I did not have them all at the same time. I did test the 370 and 372 directly as power amps, and I can still recall the disappointment. The 370 and 372 are built nicely, but they just seem to lack dynamics and realism compared to what I am hearing from the 216. Synergy will always play a role and in a different system I suppose the results would be different.

Did you compare the 370 and 372 amp sections to the 216? In other words bypass the preamp section Having said that I did pick up a 216 and based on the 370 and 372 I had I think it is better FYI The 216 power amp is 7lbs more then the 270 or 272. Also I have a 317 that does work but has issues It is the 214 power amp. In comparing the 214 to the 216 the 214 and a cleaner more sharply focused the sound The 216 is more thich and almost tube like in dimension. The beatup 2400 I picked ups sounds more transpatrent but not as refinned as either of the other two. I do not have a 2600A but would guess it is smoother and more full
See my question on preamps

I only know the old school amps and always preferred the 2600A over all the same era amps.

I have not heard all of the models but I have had the C370 and C372 (equivalent power amp to the C270 and C272) and I can honestly say that the 216 (which I still have) is a much better sounding amp. The only issue with the 216 (and I assume other models in the series) is that they are equipped with a rather cheap output speaker relay, which will need to be replaced or refurbished. Aside from that, the build quality is fantastic and so is the audio quality.

Used a 214 for a number of years pushing B&W and Magnepan speakers and always thought it sounded terrific. A bit light on power for the Maggies (1.6s) but then I also had a Vandersteen sub so was not consuming amp power for bass below about 50 hz. Worked great.