Nord MP NC252 SE Amplifier Review

[dan_uk]

In my previous post, I used the term “Golden Sample” inappropriately. I would say “Thoroughly vetted” a better description. Though a problem would be unlikely, I’d do the same if it were my product being re-reviewed. No offense intended and no conspiracy theorists need apply. My apologies to “Tone” for inadvertently suggesting Nord would respond with anything less than complete integrity.

The fact that Tone has entered this discussion only confirms Nord’s desire to get to the bottom of the problem.
Kudos.

Well said

 

[JSmith]

Isn‘t this a component design flaw?

Agree, clearly the switches are the problem then in this design... they should not need to be "exercised", especially on a new unit. I changed my vote to fine on raw measured performance, but bordering on not terrible based on this problem. I hope Nord can address this in future iterations, being a known issue prior to this review.


JSmith

 

[Mnyb]

These relays working as input switches for 20+ years without degradation of parameters. More than hundred pieces used.

View attachment 494565

Nice hermetically sealed i assume ? Then you can have the toggle switch drive the relay and not route signals trough the switch a more clever design and shorter signal path ?

 

[pma]

Nice hermetically sealed i assume ? Then you can have the toggle switch drive the relay and not route signals trough the switch a more clever design and shorter signal path ?

All of that is correct.

 

[JeremyFife]

Thanks for the review and for your time Amirm

Shame, this is sad to read. Faulty unit? but a QC problem nevertheless. Hopefully Nord respond and explain

Revised my vote up to 'fine' following Nord's explanation and Amirm's re-test

Nagging worries remain over component quality (I don't routinely flick all the switches on my equipment, and wouldn't expect that to cause problems) and the assembly choices. I'm not qualified to assess this myself, but there does seem to be consensus that the layout could/should be better. Otherwise, its a perfectly good amp.

It's a shame for Nord, if they'd submitted a new unit then these issues would probably not have shown up. Now I am, perhaps unfairly, put off the brand. It's a crowded market out there.

 

[pma]

Nagging worries remain over component quality

That is a key problem of all those audio products at “reasonable price” (reminds me to Jeremy Clarkson’s comments). There are of course switches that are absolutely reliable, like this:

DACT

What is DACT Audio? DACT Audio, a renowned brand in the world of audiophile components, is known for its commitment to quality and innovation. With a focus on d

www.soundimports.eu

But of course, costs more than a penny.

I also have bad experience with relay used in Topping DX5 DAC. Again, not a premium quality and time after time it fails to switch the left channel output.

 

[dan_uk]

I think the Apollon and others created such a high bar that you really have to compete at that level. The Apollon is a little more money, but with exponentially more power and chart leading specs.

Apollon NCx500ST Stereo Amplifier Review

This is a review and detailed measurements of the Apollon NCx500ST stereo class D amplifier based on Hypex NCOREx NCx500 modules. It was kindly drop shipped from the member and costs 1,090.00€ (US $1,168) with standard opamp. While the case is stamped aluminum, it is a heavily customized one...

www.audiosciencereview.com

Surely that would be more inline with Nord's "Nord One NCx500ST" at nearly twice the price?

Nord Acoustics | Nord One NCx500 Stereo Power Amplifier

Nord One NCx500 Stereo Power powered by the latest Hypex that delivers improved bass, dynamics, and soundstage.

nordacoustics.co.uk

 

[Ropeburn]

That is a key problem of all those audio products at “reasonable price” (reminds me to Jeremy Clarkson’s comments).

Are you saying this amp is basically the new Dacia Sandero?

 

[capslock]

These relays working as input switches for 20+ years without degradation of parameters. More than hundred pieces used.

View attachment 494565

Could you share a type number or higher resolution picture?

 

[capslock]

Are you saying this amp is basically the new Dacia Sandero?

Don't remind me. Had a rental car, a Dacia Jogger, which is the station wagon, 7 seater verson of the Sandero, two summers ago in Ireland. What a terrible car. It had the works in terms of gadgets, but all were impostors. A cruise control that would overshoot on resume, never seen anything like that. Blind spot warners that warned only when they felt like it. Steering that felt random. But my main gripe was with the ergnomics of the driver's seat. After nearly three weeks, in collusion with Irish hotel and B&B beds, my back was shot.

Needless to say, when I got my S-Max (WA6) back at the airport, my back was crying out in joy but at first I zigzacked a little bit because the steering was so responsive and precise.

 

[pma]

Could you share a type number or higher resolution picture?

Here you are:

I also posted a datasheet earlier today. But remember, this is an original Tyco product from about the year 2000, when production plants were in Switzerland, Germany and Czechia. Cannot speak about nowadays quality.

 

[Tone]

Revised my vote up to 'fine' following Nord's explanation and Amirm's re-test

Nagging worries remain over component quality (I don't routinely flick all the switches on my equipment, and wouldn't expect that to cause problems) and the assembly choices. I'm not qualified to assess this myself, but there does seem to be consensus that the layout could/should be better. Otherwise, its a perfectly good amp.

It's a shame for Nord, if they'd submitted a new unit then these issues would probably not have shown up. Now I am, perhaps unfairly, put off the brand. It's a crowded market out there.

This is absolutely fair enough.
Both issues of switches and noise floor are being investigated and my 'explanation' was based on one or two incidences of switches requiring mechanical toggling to re-establish a good connection and on much older units.

We use high quality gold plated switches with gold plated contacts sourced from a reputable supplier in the UK, and they are not 'pennies'.

I have already taken a switch apart and can confirm gold plating and no oxidisation.

We, as any company, have a duty to offer the best we can and resolve any issues that come up.

I for one am not yet satisfied.

Tony

 

[daniboun]

@amirm
I think you made mistake here :

NC252MP not NC525MP

 

[pma]

We use high quality gold plated switches with gold plated contacts sourced from a reputable supplier in the UK, and they are not 'pennies'.

Lorlin?

 

[BeeKay]

the new Dacia Sandero?

Some may (pun intended) get this

 

[Ropeburn]

Lorlin?

I've used rotary switches from Lorlin in hobby projects, they're literally pennies BUT highly robust and durable. Weren't gold plated ones though. Intended use involved dozens and hundreds of cycles per hour (musical performance application), better choose nickel plated ones for that.

 

[pma]

I've used rotary switches from Lorlin in hobby projects, they're literally pennies BUT highly robust and durable.

I know. I use them to switch DC 12V voltage for the Axicom signal relays coils and they do this job very well.

 

[TimoJ]

We, as any company, have a duty to offer the best we can and resolve any issues that come up.

Is the flat cable with heat shrinked extension wires going above the transformer and audio cables really the best you can offer?

 

[Ropeburn]

Is the flat cable with heat shrinked extension wires going above the transformer and audio cables really the best you can offer?

Apparently not. However, they do seem to take the criticism seriously, which is always a good thing. Let's be honest, we tend to very critical here, sometimes overly so. Me included.

 

[Sokel]

Apparently not. However, they do seem to take the criticism seriously, which is always a good thing. Let's be honest, we tend to very critical here, sometimes overly so. Me included.

I think that the companies already expect that.
Over-scrutiny is just Wednesday here

Healthy reactions like from the company of the reviewed one are also appreciated though.