Which one to get?

[highend64]

Hi I went to a local store and saw a Yamaha CR-420 and a NAD 3020. Both in great condition. Which one do you prefer? Thanks

 

[whyaskit]

I'd take the NAD 3020

 

[ranch 22b]

What are your speakers?

I have my NAD 3020 connected to Dynaco A-25's and am quite pleased with the sound (so much so, that the 3020 bumped a Sansui Six receiver aside, at least for now).

My SL-1210 M3D turntable seems to be especially good with this combo.

I've never had a Yamaha receiver, so can't help you there.

Good luck!

 

[jntit]

I've always been partial to the CR series, the 3020 is very well thought of. Both are probably about 25 watts at 8 ohms. The Yamaha is a receiver and the Nad an integrated so if you don't need radio I would go with the NAD.

 

[highend64]

What are your speakers?

I have my NAD 3020 connected to Dynaco A-25's and am quite pleased with the sound (so much so, that the 3020 bumped a Sansui Six receiver aside, at least for now).

My SL-1210 M3D turntable seems to be especially good with this combo.

I've never had a Yamaha receiver, so can't help you there.

Good luck!

They are Dayton Audio DIY

 

[Daunia 70]

If sound quality is on the top of your agenda,then go with the NAD integrated.

 

[highend64]

NAD it is.

 

[ranch 22b]

I'm not familiar with those speakers.

When you check out the 3020, give some attention to how the power on/off switch works. Sometimes they can be wonky. I got lucky and was able to "fix" mine with some DeOxit.

 

[ranch 22b]

Some good reading here on the 3020:

http://www.audiokarma.org/forums/showthread.php?t=519662

 

[highend64]

Here it is!

 

[ranch 22b]

Wow, that was quick - congrats! 'Looks to be in good cosmetic condition.

Are you going to be playing a turntable through it?

 

[highend64]

Unfortunately I dont have a turntable.

 

[highend64]

Can the 3020 be use as a solely as a pre? Thanks

 

[whyaskit]

Nice. A little envious. Good looking unit.
I usually go with Yamaha over most other amps/receivers. But the 2030 is a great little amp. Enjoy!

 

[ranch 22b]

Can the 3020 be use as a solely as a pre? Thanks

Yes. On the rear of the 3020, you will see a pair of U shaped jumpers. Carefully remove those and use the Pre Out jacks to connect to your amp.

 

[highend64]

Yes. On the rear of the 3020, you will see a pair of U shaped jumpers. Carefully remove those and use the Pre Out jacks to connect to your amp.

Thanks. It sounds great!

 

[ranch 22b]

Good to hear.

Are you using the 3020 as a preamp? If so, what power amp are you using?

 

[highend64]

I just want to know for future reference. I had a SCS model 2150A

 

[ghamilton]

Recapping the 3020 will make a BIG difference. I did my brothers and it's a night & day difference. I used panasonic FM & FC caps from digikey.

 

[Goldie99]

Very nice find - for future reference -the phono input stage of the NAD was well regarded in its day, and still is. Overall, size for size, they're great performers, and I doubt you'll get rid of it in a hurry !

They do tend to get 'knocked' for poor build quality, but they are well understood & generally very easily repaired / upgradable, usually with excellent results, and let's face it - they're all > 25 years old now ! Let's see how some of today's amps are doing in 25 years time.....