Upgrading the 326BEE

I've perused the forums over at Ecoustics and they also are mostly of the opinion that the preamp is the weak link in the 32xBEE series. Interestingly, with the 272/372, NAD claims that the preamp section is class A. This claim has not been made for any of the 32xBEE models as far as I can see.

Since the 326BEE powers my forte's effortlessly when the time comes a nice and reasonably priced upgrade should be available.

Thanks to all.

I like the suggestion of the C162 pre from NAD! The 326 has a pretty good amp section, so I think the Pre will make the most difference....

I can only add my experience. I have the same speakers as the OP. I borrowed a C272 from my dealer. I used my C3320BEE as the pre. I figured it would be a "slam dunk" improvement.

It turned out to be a big disappointment and a valuable lesson. Synergy must be at work with the NAD integrateds. The 320 was smoother and fuller. Listening to it you would have thought the 320 was more powerful than the 272.

I've used a tube pre on my 320 and that was a substantial improvement. Everything from soundstage to tone to detail and resolution improved. That led me to the conclusion that the pre section of the 320 series of integrateds was the area to gain from an upgrade the most. I hope this helps.

Cheers,

Scott

Don't know which you should replace first, but the c272 is way better in every way than the amp in the 326, as well as the c162 being a huge improvement. They are both sometimes available at quite low prices.

Scott, thank you for your observations. I looked at all three of the models you mentioned and when a 326 came up on CL I jumped on it.

It does not surprise me that the preamp can make a major difference with this amp. While I am really pleased with what the 326BEE can do, there is some lack of inner detail and transparency that the c272 would likely not be able to add.

Once the forte's are all up to snuff I look forward to making the change you recommend. You are right about the forte's. Even with tired old caps they are impressive.

Wayne

I have the 320BEE and 325BEE. They are wonderful amps and 326 is the best one yet. For me the C162 would be the way to go. The pre section is the weak link in the 320, 325 & 326.

I had a tube pre with my 320 and it was a nice upgrade. I'm at the point were I'm considering an amp upgrade myself but I just might get the NAD C165 to hook up to my 325.

I believe you will be pleasantly surprised how much the C162 will improve your sound. BTW, you have outstanding speakers too. I still have my forte's that I bought in the late 80's.

Cheers,

Scott