Nord MP NC252 SE Amplifier Review

[Boredcarrot]

I've had the "Value Line" version with the more basic case for a couple of years now. I've always loved the sound of it, very neutral and punchy. I was also able to have it built to my specs and shipped from the UK to Australia for cheaper than I could find an equivalent NC252 based power amp here at the time. I have no complaints whatsoever.

 

[Tone]

That's correct. The noise in the one channel is constant anyway so not explained by the intermittent matter.

FYI I was remiss in the re-test in not testing the amp as is again. I toggled the switches and then tested. It is possible that the humidity or whatever the cause of the first failure was, is unrelated to the switch.

As if I need to repeat, we are investigating (with Amir's help as the amplifier is still with him) and will provide actual explanations rather than speculation where and when possible.

Amir is a very busy man and providing an excellent service, he is also going above and beyond in this case to assist Nord.

It falls to me, as a company representative, to explain any procedures and possible oversight in the production of our products.

Please let me do this once a resolution is found.

Tony

 

[jeffbook]

And if anybody out there with Nord amplifiers that have the xlr-rca toggle switches can run some simple tests that would be helpful.

I currently have a batch of switches in the freezer.

I have a Nord 8 channel amp purchased in July 2019 consisting of 3 NC252 modules and 1 NC122 module. All channels have a toggle switch for RCA or XLR inputs.

The input cables are RCA to XLR with the RCA end connected to a miniDSP Flex 8 and the XLR end connected the the Nord amp. I have had no issue with problems with this set up to date. Speakers are a Linkwitz LX521.4 derivative.

What tests would you want me to perform?

 

[Tone]

I have a Nord 8 channel amp purchased in July 2019 consisting of 3 NC252 modules and 1 NC122 module. All channels have a toggle switch for RCA or XLR inputs.

The input cables are RCA to XLR with the RCA end connected to a miniDSP Flex 8 and the XLR end connected the the Nord amp. I have had no issue with problems with this set up to date. Speakers are a Linkwitz LX521.4 derivative.

What tests would you want me to perform?

If you could put the amplifier in your freezer for a few months then take it out and measure it..

Or if that's too much, simply report any issues as is and switching over to using other input (rca in your case).

 

[CT007]

Here is the unbox video, if anyone's curious. (Will be using the fantastic Ascend Acoustics Sierra-1v2 speakers with it, upgrading from my dog-of-an-amp Emotiva BasX A-100) This has the standard/non-upgrade connectors, btw. (HCK 60A). And product page here.

This is the Nord One, model, not to be confused with the similar Nord Value-Line model here. This is also my first Nord product, and Amir collab. The amp was shipped to him un-tested/un-used by myself; I simply opened the box for the unboxing video, then sent it straight to him.

Looking at the product pages of One VS Value-Line, it's tricky to figure out what the differences actually are... Seems like One offers:
- Tall aluminum isolation feet (VS flat rubber feet)
- 3D front logo sticker/badge (VS laser-etched logo)
- RCA+XLR, switchable (VS RCA or XLR, no switch)
- 5-way CHK binding posts, or upgraded WBT posts (VS cheaper 3-way posts)
- Additional upgrade options (VS 12V trigger option only)
- Silver or black case finish (VS black only)
- Silver-plated Teflon dielectric binding post wire (VS copper)
- Front LED light ON/DIM toggle (VS no toggle)
* If the SE case design is chosen, then the power cord input and RCA/XLR inputs will be on opposite sides of the case, to how they appear on the product page photo(s), and will instead be layed out how you see in the unbox video and photos in this review. This should result in cleaner performance, with the power line being further away from the signal inputs, contrary to the non-SE case layout. This information does not seem to be mentioned on the product page anywhere.

Very curious to see what performance/measurement changes the new front button cable will have..! Hopefully will put the first ones to shame.

 

[CountZodiac]

Here is the unbox video, if anyone's curious. (Will be using the fantastic Ascend Acoustics Sierra-1v2 speakers with it, upgrading from my dog-of-an-amp Emotiva BasX A-100) This has the standard/non-upgrade connectors, btw. (HCK 60A). And product page here.

This is the Nord One, model, not to be confused with the similar Nord Value-Line model here. This is also my first Nord product, and Amir collab. The amp was shipped to him un-tested/un-used by myself; I simply opened the box for the unboxing video, then sent it straight to him.

Looking at the product pages of One VS Value-Line, it's tricky to figure out what the differences actually are... Seems like One offers:
- Tall aluminum isolation feet (VS flat rubber feet)
- 3D front logo sticker/badge (VS laser-etched logo)
- RCA+XLR, switchable (VS RCA or XLR, no switch)
- 5-way CHK binding posts, or upgraded WBT posts (VS cheaper 3-way posts)
- Additional upgrade options (VS 12V trigger option only)
- Silver or black case finish (VS black only)
- Silver-plated Teflon dielectric binding post wire (VS copper)
- Front LED light ON/DIM toggle (VS no toggle)
* If the SE case design is chosen, then the power cord input and RCA/XLR inputs will be on opposite sides of the case, to how they appear on the product page photo(s), and will instead be layed out how you see in the unbox video and photos in this review. This should result in cleaner performance, with the power line being further away from the signal inputs, contrary to the non-SE case layout. This information does not seem to be mentioned on the product page anywhere.

Very curious to see what performance/measurement changes the new front button cable will have..! Hopefully will put the first ones to shame.

Just to add to this very thorough unboxing video, if you order the 12v trigger option a trigger cable (stereo) is also included in the box.

 

[Ropeburn]

Talking of, I hope it's mono cable compatible. As should all trigger sockets. Apparently, some aren't, generally speaking. Why? Its so easy and obvious.

 

[CountZodiac]

Talking of, I hope it's mono cable compatible. As should all trigger sockets. Apparently, some aren't, generally speaking. Why? Its so easy and obvious.

Just tried a mono cable, and it is compatible.

 

[Tone]

Just tried a mono cable, and it is compatible.

Yes Nord supply stereo leads and use stereo socket wired tip +, sleeve gnd.

Never had issue with the compatibility but never actually questioned, something from dim memory of ring/tip connections certain manufacturers used, but..

 

[Tone]

Very curious to see what performance/measurement changes the new front button cable will have..! Hopefully will put the first ones to shame.

Not long now CT007, but you know that.

 

[Tone]

I would really like to report some progress here but it seems this is not a good time of year for efficient post.

Keep tracking parcel I sent Amir but still seems to be stuck in USPS system...

 

[Tone]

Finally some progress!
But I will not be putting any pressure on Amir..

 

[amirm]

Review updated with new wiring which substantially reduced the power supply leakage into Channel 2.

 

[pma]

It is the assembler company who should have known. These are elementary mistakes.

 

[TimoJ]

Review updated with new wiring which substantially reduced the power supply leakage into Channel 2.

Does Nord offer the new wiring to all existing customers?

 

[Zastawny4475]

Does Nord offer the new wiring to all existing customers?

I think they should for all cuatomers and pay for return postage and packaging. Or send the parts to existing customers. With details instructions on how to perform the fix.

 

[Zastawny4475]

I am leaving my nord nc252mp as is as i dont have an issue with my unit and its only used in my spare room. But i can see why its frustrating for owners when the units are not up to par from the get go. I hope all future units will be the best they can be like the unit sent it ect.

 

[amirm]

Does Nord offer the new wiring to all existing customers?

I don't know. I haven't asked.

 

[YSDR]

That gray colored "ribbon" cable on the input side is a joke for balanced interconnect function for analogue audio application, IMO.

 

[amirm]

That gray colored "ribbon" cable on the input side is a joke for balanced interconnect function for analogue audio application, IMO.

That is my opinion as well. This is why I partially put the blame on board design than just assembly.