Using a NAD C700 or M10v1/2 as a Preamp for Buckeye Amps

[Narnian]

I am currently testing out a NAD C389 and like it overall. The clarity and detail is excellent. However I need to send it back because of an issue in the subwoofer output. Which got me thinking.

For a cheaper or similar cost I can get a NAD C700 or a used NAD M10v1 or M10v2 and use them as a preamp for one of the Buckeye amps. With the later M10’s I can get Dirac as well. Has any body done any comparisons? Is there any real difference versus a NAD C series integrated amp?

 

[pablolie]

I am currently testing out a NAD C389 and like it overall. The clarity and detail is excellent. However I need to send it back because of an issue in the subwoofer output. Which got me thinking.

For a cheaper or similar cost I can get a NAD C700 or a used NAD M10v1 or M10v2 and use them as a preamp for one of the Buckeye amps. With the later M10’s I can get Dirac as well. Has any body done any comparisons? Is there any real difference versus a NAD C series integrated amp?

Their specs are published and NAD specs are pretty reliable. The M10 does not seem to have a marked performance advantage in audio specs, it has a better mini-screen and more features. Personally I am wary about the longevity of built-in streaming gimmicks, I'd rather leave those to a pretty disposable and purely digital front end device.