Je partage pour les passionnés mon test UK qui oppose mes DIY Hypex Ncore Double Mono et mon TPA3251 basé sur le Design 360 Customs / TI. Ce sont les meilleurs ampli que j'ai pu écouter et monter ces derniers temps, on est vraiment de part et d'autre sur le top du top des TPA32XX et Classe D
Pour les curieux, ils sont testables sur Ambérieu en Bugey à coté de Lyon. C'est toujours un plaisir de partager une passion )
----------------------------------------------
I have finally finished my last two projects) The idea is to test a high-end TPA32XX with PFFB and top quality components VS a Double mono Hypex Ncore NC250 whose reputation and measures are well established.
We were all amazed by the performances of the little Aiyima and as far as I'm concerned by the BRZHIFI as well. So I could easily compare these two amps with my new high end TPA32XX. On the other hand, my test is based on a subjective listening experience. But the measurements and THD of each amp are given on the respective websites of 360 Customs and Hypex.
Setup :
Speakers : 2.5Way High end Floor Speakers, Ribbon tweeter, 100W RMS / 8 ohms (about $2500 made in France)
DAC (options) : Double AK4497 + Quad Sabre DAC (V30)
Playlist : HD Audio Stream, Jazz / Classical / World Music.
Audio Player : LG V30 / APTX HD enabled
What do we have in the box?
Amp 1 @ left : TPA3251 based / inspired on 360 Customs design / TI. ( PFFB enabled , Main caps : Panasonic FC / Buffer caps : Elna Silmic II, Output filter : Wima, Handcraft Inductors with RM8 N87 Ferrite, OPA1602).
PSU Board : Handcrafted SMPS PSU (400W, TDK Epcos, EDT34 Core, LLC..)
Amp 2 @ right : Hypex double Mono Ncore NC250MP (see Hypex Datasheet : https://www.hypex.nl/documenten/download/916)
Both Amplifier are made with top quality materials (cables, RCA plugs etc). I also included RFI Blockers (tube type) that I clamped in all inputs / outputs (PSU / Line in / Speakers Output)...
Enclosures are made in Aluminium for the front and back panels and anti-scratch steel for the Top and Bottom covers.
What Can I say aftter a 10H listening test ?
Both Amplifier perform very very well but so differently )
What immediately jumped to my ears when I listened to this TPA3251 at the first time, is a sudden sensation on the opening of the sound compared to my Aiyima / BRZHIFI. The Soundstage has been gleefully improved : So much so that I felt like I was rediscovering all my HD Audio Playlist. The power of the amp is also revised upwards, I would say about 25% / 30% ! It is evident that the quality components have an obvious impact on the listening and the power of the amp. The treble and mids are really better, it's as if the voices were detached from the instruments on my speakers. The bass is also more forward and more frank, they are neither too invasive nor too erased.
I really love what I listen to !
Let's move now on to the Hypex Ncore. What immediately surprised me VS the TPA3251 is the listening experience, especially for the bass.
We feel that the Hypex Ncore have a greater dynamic, it's really obvious at first listen. However, I found the soundstage more interesting on the side of the TPA3251. The hypex is however more powerful than the TPA3251 and therefore we have a more significant power reserve on the Ncore side (I'm talking about the NC250MP). Regarding the rest of the register, the Mediums and trebles are sublime and the timbers are also surprising. Concerning a slightly more global listening and, on different registers = Jazz, classical music, Worldmusic, both amplifiers are really neck and neck. I find the TPA3251 more neutral and the Hypex a little more colorful.
Verdict (Plus and cons) :
We have here two very good Class D amps. Both amplifiers will be suitable for HIFI listening and will cover a multitude of registers with enough ease. If you need power and finesse, the Hypex is better suited. If you listen to music at a more moderate volume, the TPA3251 based on a good design, is perfect.
Two small faults to note on both sides: : Pop sound only when turning OFF the TPA3251 and I found the Hypex a bit less silent than the TPA3251.
Regarding the price ... a high-end TPA32XX with a great PSU is cheaper than a double Mono Hypex NC250MP.
I love these two amps and frankly, at this point: I do not know which one I would keep .... One thing is certain: these are by far the best Class D I have listened to.
I hope this review can help you in your future choices and considerations.
Danny
Pictures :
