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NAT amps - Any thoughts?

Hi all,
I'm looking for user feedback on NAT amps, especially sound quality, reliability, and overall owner experience.

The NAT Single HPS integrated, based on the GM70 tube, is on my radar to drive my Cornwall IV. It would be a leap, since I've never heard the amp, never heard the tube, and never, in fact, heard anything made by NAT! But hey, what's life without adventure? Most of what I've read on NAT around the web has been positive if limited. So any feedback would be welcome, including thoughts on the GM70 tube itself and how it compares to the 845 and 211.
Thanks!
Bill
wrm57
3 responses Add your response
mglik
908 posts
 
I believe that that NAT amp is excellent. Just very hot.
Check out the ocd HiFi guy, Mike Powell Audio, on YouTube.He is the importer of NAT and has a few videos where you can really hear them with good headphones. Of note is that NAT makes an integrated for $6K that is killer.
Mike is a good guy and a straight shooter.
wrm57 OP
1,048 posts
 
Thanks for the info, mglik. Good to know the importer is trustworthy. We've only exchanged email. The NAT website indicates that the Single HPS is the only integrated in their stable. Is there another one that's cheaper? MSRP on the Single is more like $8K base, plus another $2K for upgraded silver/OFC transformers. Definitely has peaked my interest, though.
mglik
908 posts
 
I spoke with Mike Powell about the $8K integrated. He told me that he sells it for $6K. Hearing it on YouTube, we both agreed that it is superb. It certainly has the big NAT sound just less power.
With Mike’s discount, I would go for the silver tranny upgrade.
He probably discounts that too.

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