Naim Classic 200 Series NAP 250: POWER AMPLIFIER

For this modular audio component set-a review of the matching NSC 222 streamer preamp with a matching NPX 300 power supply is forthcoming-we first cover the standalone NAP 250 100Wpc stereo power amplifier, a new version of Naim's 200-series amplifier, now so extensively revised that it must be regarded as a new model.

- MARTIN COLLOMS

Naim has long embraced two upgrade paths: the usual substitution route-replace an inferior component with a newer or better one and progressive power-unit augmentation for components already installed. Setting aside for now the former route: Among many other changes, these Naim "New Classic"-series components may be more easily combined not only with other components from Naim but with items from other audio makers. This enhanced compatibility includes Naim legacy systems: All can now be mixed and matched more easily.

Naim Audio's enduring, compact 200-series stereo power amplifier has been relaunched as the NAP 250, a key component of their new 200 Series. It has been updated massively in its technology and the compatibility of its connections, yet the primary circuit concept, which dates to the mid-1970s, is essentially unchanged. Recent development work has focused on helping the amplifier match up well with the new NSC 222 streamer-preamp, the NAP 250's intended companion.

The new 200-series power amplifier is now called, simply, NAP 250, dropping the "DR" of the previous model. But while the suffix is now omitted, the ultralow-noise DR technology has been retained in the active, fully regulated power supplies; indeed, it has been improved.

For comparison, I had to hand a very recent sample of the now superseded NAP 250 DR.

If it's not broke, fix it anyway

Over the years, I have tested several iterations of the 250. The outgoing "DR" version of the NAP 250 performed well in my recent evaluation in HiFiCritic (Vol.16 No.1). However, to better match the design and connectivity concepts envisaged for the new 200-series system, numerous operational and system changes were applied. That engineering process was allowed to run and run, resulting in a major design overhaul, sufficient to merit a fresh appraisal.