Project DS2 Amp Box vs Nord range?

[zeneasy]

Hi,

I have a Project DS2 power amp, which I think uses the Hypex UcD. I was looking at upgrading as while it had the bass drive it is lacking a bit of high end clarity for my tastes.

I’ve seen lots of positive views on the Nord range, and can see it used ncore (is ncore better than Ucd?) but I’m not sure where in the range to aim for.

In the value range the MP NC252 fits the spec but not sure it will be any better than the DS2.

Next step up would be NC500 which has the rev c buffer, does that make a big difference?

Or do I need to save the pennies and go for the Nord Three 1ET7040SA MKII?

Not being able to audition the Nords is a downside so would appreciate any real world experiences. I know there’s the money back guarantee but would like to avoid the hassle of that.

Thanks, Sean

 

[-Matt-]

According to this review...

https://www.henleyaudio.co.uk/wwwroot/Media/downloads/products/PJAAAMPBOX/PJAAAMPBOX_Hi-Fi%20News%20Review.pdf

the Pro-Ject DS2 Amp Box uses Hypex UcD180LP modules.

You can look at the Hypex datasheet for that module here:

https://www.hypex.nl/media/54/e3/8c/1645786771/UcD180LP_OEM_R12.pdf

The lowest point on the THD vs Power chart (at about 50mW) is 0.004%.

Using this calculator...

THD to dB - convert percent % to decibels dB percentage voltage % vs per cent converter THD+N total harmonic distortions calculation signal distortion factor attenuation in dB to distortion factor k in percent decibel damping - sengpielaudio Sengpiel

Calculate THD and distortions decibels dB to percentage % per cent percent voltage % vs converter and dB signal distortion THD+N total harmonic distortions factor attenuation damping - Eberhard Sengpiel sengpielaudio

sengpielaudio.com

that equates to a SINAD of about -88dB

I think @amirm usually measures at 5W, where this module is nearer to 0.01% THD or -80dB SINAD.

Note the Hypex chart doesn't seem to include the noise (i.e. it is THD not THD+N) and so the conversion to SINAD is probably a bit wrong. But hopefully that gives you an approximate value to judge what level of improvement you will likely see by changing to a different module.