Avondale vs. Naim

Would like to know your opinions regarding the Avondale Graduation One preamp and the A260z Twin channel poweramp.

How does it compare to a Naim 252/SC2/300?

It is a fraction of the price, but we all know the Naim is a commercial built and sold through dealers. However, maybe a fairer comparison would be the 52/SC/250.

These amps will be fed by my Meridian 206, Rega 25/17D2/Tom Evans Microgroove+, and a newly built RME (studio sound card) home entertainment / DVD computer system.

Who's done the comparison?

 

Welcome to the forum.

No ideas about Avondale vs Naim, but looking at your sources, IMO I think the money should be going there first rather than 252/SC/300 level amplification.


Cheers, Robbo

 

Avondale is a fraction of the price...

I've heard the 252/300 on numerous occasions, and it's an OK sounding system. Certainly a different sound and better performance than my current 82/HiCap/250. It's also a lot of money for the sound it admits - quote Avondale.

For £10000 + I'd go Hovland, Mark Levinson, Active ATC etc.

However, for just over £2000 the Avondale pre/power is supposed to be better or equal to the best of Naim.

Any comments welcomed!

 

I believe Avondale offer a home trial period. Give them a call, they are helpfull and pleassant on the phone.
I agree with Robbo though, maybe look at source first.

 

Coming back to the source...

To be honest, I'm not a great believer in source first.

The Rega via the Tom Evans does enough, with the Meridian only suffering a touch with an old DAC (enhanced through tweaking etc.) to give my Naim Headline/Grado a fantastic sound.