Audio T Verdict
The Nytech CP202 is a focused, entirely analogue pre-amplifier designed to provide source selection, volume control and high-quality headphone listening without introducing unnecessary digital circuitry or complicated menus.
Four stereo RCA line inputs accommodate suitable streamers, DACs, CD players, tuners and external phono stages. A dedicated headphone amplifier provides up to 7V RMS into a 32-ohm load, while inserting a headphone plug automatically places a compatible Nytech power amplifier into standby.
The CP202 is the natural partner for the Nytech CPA402. Its three-pin XLR outputs carry an unbalanced analogue signal and incorporate Nytech's power-control arrangement, allowing the pre-amplifier or remote handset to control the matching power amplifier.
It is important not to mistake those connections for a conventional fully balanced output. Nytech deliberately uses an unbalanced signal through the XLR connector, with the additional pin providing control and grounding functions within the matching system.
The CP202 can also operate as a substantial standalone headphone amplifier, or feed a suitable third-party power amplifier using a correctly configured connection.
There is no built-in phono stage, DAC or streaming module. That makes it less convenient than a feature-packed modern control centre, but it also allows Nytech to concentrate on analogue performance, straightforward operation and long-term serviceability.
Audio T Cardiff has used the CP202 and CPA402 combination extensively when evaluating turntables, phono stages and loudspeakers. It remains a highly engaging pre and power amplifier pairing that encourages long listening sessions rather than constant adjustment.
Nytech CP202 Analogue Pre-Amplifier and Headphone Amplifier
The Nytech CP202 is a hand-built analogue pre-amplifier designed to control the sources and listening volume within a high-quality separates system.
It provides four stereo line-level inputs, a dedicated headphone amplifier and an unbalanced pre-amplifier output using three-pin XLR connectors.
The CP202 was developed as the matching control component for the Nytech CPA402 dual-mono power amplifier, although it can also be partnered with other suitable power amplifiers.
Its compact half-width case and real-wood side panels give it a distinctive appearance while allowing the CP202 and CPA402 to be positioned together without requiring the shelf width of two conventional full-size components.
A Power Amplifier or Active Loudspeakers Are Required
The CP202 is a pre-amplifier and cannot drive passive loudspeakers directly.
It must be connected to a suitable power amplifier, such as the Nytech CPA402, or a pair of compatible active loudspeakers.
- No speaker-level power amplification
- No loudspeaker terminals
- No built-in moving magnet or moving coil phono stage
- No internal DAC
- No digital audio inputs
- No network music streaming
- No Bluetooth connection
- No internal radio tuner
What Does a Pre-Amplifier Do?
A pre-amplifier sits between the source components and the power amplifier.
It allows the listener to choose which source is playing, adjust the listening volume and send the resulting signal to the amplifier that drives the loudspeakers.
Separating pre-amplification and power amplification allows each component to concentrate on a specific task.
The CP202 handles sensitive low-level signals, source selection, volume control and headphone operation. The matching CPA402 contains the high-current circuitry and power supplies required by the loudspeakers.
Four Analogue Line Inputs
The CP202 provides four stereo analogue inputs using professional-quality RCA connectors.
Each input is designed for a nominal line-level signal of approximately -10dBu, equivalent to around 300mV RMS.
Suitable sources can include:
- A network music streamer with analogue outputs
- A standalone digital-to-analogue converter
- A CD or SACD player
- An FM or DAB radio tuner
- A cassette deck
- A reel-to-reel machine
- An external moving magnet or moving coil phono stage
- A television or media player with a suitable analogue output
Input selection is controlled from the front panel or remote control.
No Built-In Phono Stage
A turntable cartridge cannot normally be connected directly to one of the CP202's line inputs.
The small, RIAA-encoded signal from a moving magnet or moving coil cartridge must first pass through a suitable external phono stage.
The phono stage then connects to any available CP202 line input.
Separating the phono circuitry from the pre-amplifier keeps the extremely sensitive cartridge signal away from the CP202's mains transformer and allows the phono stage to be selected specifically for the cartridge.
Choose the Phono Stage to Suit the Cartridge
A moving magnet cartridge requires a suitable MM input, while a low-output moving coil cartridge requires an MC stage or correctly matched step-up arrangement.
Audio T can help match the cartridge, phono stage and CP202 as a complete system.
Pure Analogue Signal Path
The CP202 contains no internal digital-to-analogue converter, network module, wireless receiver or digital signal processor.
All four sources enter and leave the pre-amplifier as analogue signals.
This provides a straightforward signal path and means the CP202 is not dependent on software updates, streaming-service certification or an internet connection.
Digital sources can still be used by connecting the analogue outputs of a streamer, CD player or standalone DAC.
Dedicated Headphone Amplifier
A purpose-designed headphone amplifier is built into the CP202.
This allows the pre-amplifier to be used for private listening without requiring a separate headphone component.
The front-mounted 6.3mm stereo connection accepts conventional quarter-inch headphone plugs. Headphones fitted with a smaller 3.5mm plug can be used with a suitable adaptor.
The headphone amplifier is capable of producing up to 7V RMS into a 32-ohm load.
This substantial voltage capability allows the CP202 to work with a broad selection of conventional Hi-Fi headphones, although sensitivity, impedance and required listening level should still be checked.
Dealer-Adjustable Headphone Level
The internal headphone level can be adjusted by Nytech or an authorised dealer to better suit particular headphones.
This can be useful where a very sensitive headphone becomes loud too early in the volume-control range, or where a more demanding model requires additional level.
The adjustment is not intended as an everyday user control and should be carried out by suitably experienced personnel.
Arrange a Headphone Demonstration
Bring the intended headphones to Audio T Cardiff where possible.
Headphone impedance alone does not determine how difficult a model is to drive. Sensitivity and the required listening level are equally important.
Automatic Loudspeaker Muting
Inserting a headphone plug places a compatible Nytech power amplifier into standby.
This prevents the loudspeakers from continuing to play when private headphone listening begins.
Removing the headphones allows the matching power amplifier to return to normal system operation through the Nytech control arrangement.
The feature depends on the CP202 being connected to a compatible power amplifier using the correct control cable.
Nytech Power Control
The CP202 can switch compatible current Nytech power amplifiers between operating and standby modes.
Power control is available through the CP202's own power control and remote handset.
This gives the CP202 and CPA402 combination much of the everyday convenience of an integrated amplifier while retaining separate pre-amplifier and power-amplifier enclosures.
The matching CPA402 consumes less than 0.3VA while in standby.
Unbalanced XLR Pre-Amplifier Outputs
The left and right pre-amplifier outputs use three-pin male XLR connectors.
The audio signal itself is unbalanced and has a nominal level of 0dBu, equivalent to approximately 0.775V RMS.
Nytech uses XLR connectors because they provide a secure connection and an additional pin for the matching power-control function.
The XLR Outputs Are Not Conventionally Balanced
The presence of XLR connectors does not mean that the CP202 has a fully balanced analogue output stage.
The signal is unbalanced. A correctly wired cable is required when connecting the CP202 to a conventional balanced power-amplifier input.
Do not purchase or connect an ordinary balanced XLR cable without checking the required wiring with Audio T.
CCIR-Compatible Unbalanced XLR Arrangement
When the CP202 is powered, pin 2 of the XLR output is connected to the signal earth on pin 1.
This allows the unbalanced signal arrangement to meet the relevant CCIR convention and permits connection to suitable power amplifiers using balanced input connectors.
The precise cable wiring remains important, particularly where the third-party power amplifier uses a different grounding arrangement.
Matching the CP202 with the CPA402
The Nytech CPA402 was designed specifically to partner the CP202.
The CP202 supplies an unbalanced signal at approximately 0.775V RMS, which closely matches the CPA402's nominal input sensitivity.
The connection also provides coordinated power and headphone-muting control.
Together, the two components provide:
- Four analogue source inputs
- Remote source and volume control
- Dedicated headphone amplification
- Dual-mono speaker amplification
- 40W per channel into 8 ohms
- 80W per channel into 4 ohms
- Automatic power-amplifier standby during headphone listening
Connection to Other Power Amplifiers
The CP202 can be used with a suitable third-party power amplifier.
Because the CP202 uses unbalanced signals through male XLR outputs, the connecting cable must be wired for the input arrangement of the chosen amplifier.
A power amplifier with RCA inputs may require a correctly wired XLR-to-RCA cable.
A model with balanced XLR inputs may accept the CP202 through an appropriately wired XLR cable, but this does not convert the signal into a balanced one.
Power-control and headphone-muting functions may not operate with third-party amplification.
Connection to Active Loudspeakers
The CP202 can also control compatible active loudspeakers with analogue line-level inputs.
The loudspeakers must provide a suitable input sensitivity and connection arrangement for the CP202's 0.775V nominal output.
A correctly wired cable will be required, and volume should be reduced before the system is powered or reconnected.
Nytech power-control and automatic muting functions will not necessarily operate with active loudspeakers.
Remote Control
Remote operation allows the main listening functions to be controlled from the seating position.
This includes volume adjustment, source selection and the control of compatible Nytech power amplification.
Nytech's approach is deliberately straightforward, avoiding the complexity of a remote handset filled with controls unrelated to everyday listening.
Low-Noise Performance
With the inputs shorted and the volume set to maximum, Nytech specifies residual noise of -65dBu at the main output.
The headphone output is specified at -60dBu under the same test conditions.
The audible noise level within a complete system will also depend on the source component, interconnects, power amplifier, loudspeaker sensitivity, headphones and local electrical environment.
Internal Mains Power Supply
The CP202 uses an internal mains power supply connected through a standard IEC C14 inlet.
UK and European models operate from a 220V to 240V AC supply at 50Hz or 60Hz and have a specified requirement of 30VA.
Versions are also available for 100V to 120V AC regions.
The correct mains version must be used for the local supply.
Low Standby Consumption
Standby consumption is specified at less than 0.3VA.
This allows the CP202 to remain ready for remote activation without consuming the power associated with normal operation.
The low standby demand also complements the coordinated power arrangement used with the CPA402.
Compact Half-Width Construction
The CP202 measures 218mm wide, making it approximately half the width of a conventional full-size Hi-Fi component.
It can be positioned alongside the matching CPA402 where shelf width permits, or placed on a separate shelf.
The enclosure is 330mm deep including its rear sockets, so additional room must be allowed for the XLR cables, RCA inputs and mains connector.
The pre-amplifier weighs approximately 5kg outside its packaging.
Ventilation and Placement
Nytech recommends allowing at least 25mm of clear space on each side of the CP202.
Although a pre-amplifier produces less heat than a power amplifier, its internal mains supply still requires sensible airflow.
Allow approximately 50mm to 75mm behind the unit for connectors and to avoid tight bends in the interconnect and mains cables.
Position the CP202 on a rigid, level shelf and away from equipment producing strong electromagnetic fields where practical.
Hand-Built in South Wales
Nytech builds its current analogue equipment in South Wales.
The company's no-assembly-line approach means products are constructed and tested by skilled engineers rather than passing through a high-volume automated production process.
The CP202 is intended to remain serviceable and repairable rather than becoming obsolete because a software platform or digital module can no longer be supported.
Real-Wood Side Panels
The CP202 uses real-wood side panels to complement its black front panel and aluminium enclosure.
Nytech currently lists Welsh Walnut, American Walnut, Light Oak and Black Ash for the matching CPA402 and CA352 range. CP202 finish availability should be confirmed when ordering so the pre-amplifier can be coordinated with the power amplifier where required.
Natural wood varies in colour and grain, so each finished product will be slightly different.
CP202 and CPA402 or the CA352?
Choose the CP202 and CPA402 When
- You want separate pre-amplifier and power-amplifier components
- You value the CPA402's dual-mono amplifier construction
- You may upgrade the pre-amplifier or power amplifier separately
- You want 40W into 8 ohms and 80W into 4 ohms
- The dedicated CP202 headphone section is important
- You prefer Nytech's flagship pre and power combination
- Two compact enclosures suit the equipment rack
Choose the CA352 When
- You want a simpler one-box analogue amplifier
- 35W into 8 ohms and 70W into 4 ohms provide sufficient power
- You do not need to upgrade the pre and power stages separately
- Fewer interconnects and mains cables are preferable
- Equipment-rack space is limited
- You want Nytech's source control, headphone amplifier and speaker amplification together
CP202 or a Streaming Pre-Amplifier?
Choose the Nytech CP202 When
- You want a focused analogue pre-amplifier
- Existing sources already provide suitable analogue outputs
- You do not want the amplifier tied to a streaming platform
- Long-term serviceability is a priority
- A dedicated headphone amplifier is required
- You prefer to choose and upgrade the DAC or streamer separately
- Four line-level inputs are sufficient
Choose a Streaming Pre-Amplifier When
- You want online music services built into the system controller
- You require digital inputs and internal conversion
- App-based source control is important
- You want fewer separate source components
- Network-library and internet-radio playback are required
- You accept that digital platforms and software will change over time
CP202 or a Dedicated Headphone Amplifier?
Choose the CP202 When
- You need both loudspeaker-system control and headphone listening
- You want four analogue sources available to the headphones
- Automatic muting of a matching Nytech power amplifier is useful
- The CP202's output is suitable for the intended headphones
- You prefer one control component for speakers and headphones
Choose a Dedicated Headphone Amplifier When
- You use particularly demanding or specialist headphones
- A balanced headphone connection is required
- Several headphone outputs are needed
- You want selectable gain or impedance settings
- The loudspeaker system already has a suitable pre-amplifier
- Headphone listening is the system's principal purpose
System Matching
Well Suited To
- The Nytech CPA402 power amplifier
- Compatible third-party analogue power amplifiers
- Active loudspeakers with suitable analogue inputs
- CD players and standalone DACs
- Network streamers with analogue outputs
- External MM and MC phono stages
- Tuners, cassette decks and other line-level sources
- Conventional wired Hi-Fi headphones
- Pure analogue separates systems
Check Before Buying
- A separate power amplifier or active loudspeakers are available
- The intended sources provide analogue line-level outputs
- A separate phono stage is available for a turntable
- The XLR output cable is wired correctly
- The power amplifier's input sensitivity is suitable
- The headphones suit the available output
- The equipment shelf provides adequate ventilation
- There is sufficient rear cable clearance
Connection and Setup Guidance
- Switch off the complete system before connecting or disconnecting equipment.
- Connect line-level sources to the CP202's RCA inputs.
- Connect a turntable through a suitable external phono stage.
- Do not connect a turntable cartridge directly to a line input.
- Use the correct Nytech XLR control cable with the CPA402.
- Do not assume that the XLR output is conventionally balanced.
- Confirm third-party power-amplifier cable wiring with Audio T.
- Reduce the CP202 volume before powering the system.
- Connect headphones before raising the listening level.
- Use a suitable 3.5mm-to-6.3mm adaptor where required.
- Allow at least 25mm of free space on each side.
- Allow approximately 50mm to 75mm behind the unit for cables.
- Keep signal cables away from mains adaptors and high-current power cables where practical.
Nytech Products and Audio T Guides
These Audio T links provide useful product information, system examples and guidance about pre-amplifiers, power amplifiers and Nytech equipment.
Key Features
- Pure analogue stereo pre-amplifier
- Designed to partner the Nytech CPA402
- Four stereo line-level inputs
- Professional-quality RCA input connectors
- Nominal input level of -10dBu
- Approximately 300mV RMS nominal input level
- Remote source selection
- Remote volume control
- Dedicated headphone amplifier
- Front-mounted 6.3mm headphone output
- Up to 7V RMS headphone output into 32 ohms
- Dealer-adjustable headphone level
- Automatic compatible power-amplifier muting with headphones
- Unbalanced pre-amplifier outputs
- Three-pin male XLR output connectors
- Nominal output level of 0dBu
- Approximately 0.775V RMS nominal output
- CCIR-compatible unbalanced XLR arrangement
- Nytech remote power control through XLR
- Compatible with suitable third-party power amplifiers
- Internal mains power supply
- Standard IEC C14 mains inlet
- 30VA power requirement
- Standby consumption below 0.3VA
- Main-output noise of -65dBu under specified conditions
- Headphone-output noise of -60dBu under specified conditions
- Compact 218mm-wide enclosure
- Real-wood side panels
- Pure analogue construction
- No internal DAC or digital processing
- No network or Bluetooth platform
- Designed for long-term serviceability
- Hand-built in South Wales
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Nytech CP202?
It is a pure analogue pre-amplifier with four line inputs, remote control and a dedicated headphone amplifier.
Can it drive passive loudspeakers?
No. A suitable power amplifier, such as the Nytech CPA402, is required.
Can it connect to active loudspeakers?
Yes, provided the loudspeakers have suitable analogue line inputs and a correctly wired connection is used.
How many source inputs does it have?
It provides four stereo analogue line-level inputs using RCA connectors.
Does it have digital inputs?
No. It is an entirely analogue pre-amplifier.
Does it have a built-in DAC?
No. A digital source must provide its own analogue output or connect through a separate DAC.
Does it have music streaming?
No. A separate streamer can be connected to one of the four line inputs.
Does it have Bluetooth?
No.
Does it include a phono stage?
No. A turntable requires a suitable external moving magnet or moving coil phono stage.
Can a phono stage connect to any input?
Yes. Its line-level output can connect to any available CP202 RCA input.
Does it have a headphone amplifier?
Yes. A dedicated headphone amplifier feeds the front-mounted 6.3mm socket.
What is the headphone output level?
Nytech specifies up to 7V RMS into a 32-ohm load.
Can I use headphones with a 3.5mm plug?
Yes, with a suitable 3.5mm-to-6.3mm adaptor.
Can the headphone level be adjusted?
Nytech or an authorised dealer can adjust the internal level to suit particular headphones.
What happens when headphones are connected?
A compatible Nytech power amplifier is placed into standby so the loudspeakers stop playing.
Does the automatic muting work with every power amplifier?
No. It depends on the matching Nytech control connection or a compatible third-party arrangement.
Does it have remote control?
Yes. Remote operation includes everyday source, volume and compatible power-amplifier control.
Are the XLR outputs balanced?
No. They carry an unbalanced analogue signal and support Nytech's power-control arrangement.
Why does it use XLR connectors?
They provide a secure connection and allow Nytech to include the additional control and grounding functions required by the matching CPA402.
Can it connect to a balanced power amplifier?
Yes, in many cases, but a correctly wired cable is required. Confirm compatibility with Audio T before connection.
Can it connect to a power amplifier with RCA inputs?
Yes, using a correctly wired XLR-to-RCA interconnect.
What is the nominal output voltage?
It is specified at 0dBu, equivalent to approximately 0.775V RMS.
What is the nominal input level?
The four line inputs are specified at -10dBu, equivalent to approximately 300mV RMS.
Is it the matching pre-amplifier for the CPA402?
Yes. The two components were designed to operate together.
Can it switch the CPA402 on and off?
Yes. The matching XLR control connection allows the CP202 and remote control to manage the power amplifier's operating state.
What is the signal-to-noise specification?
Nytech specifies -65dBu at the main output and -60dBu at the headphone output with the inputs shorted and volume at maximum.
How much power does it consume?
The mains requirement is specified at 30VA, with standby consumption below 0.3VA.
What are its dimensions?
It measures 218mm wide, 330mm deep including the rear sockets and 90mm high including its feet.
How much does it weigh?
Its net weight is approximately 5kg.
Does it require ventilation?
Yes. Nytech recommends at least 25mm of clear space on each side.
How much space is needed behind it?
Allow approximately 50mm to 75mm for the mains cable, RCA inputs and XLR outputs.
Where is it made?
It is hand-built by Nytech Audio in South Wales.
Can it be repaired?
Nytech designs its current analogue products to remain serviceable and supportable over the long term.
Where can I hear it?
Audio T Cardiff can arrange demonstrations with the matching CPA402, suitable source components, loudspeakers and headphones.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Nytech demonstrations at Audio T Cardiff
- Extensive experience with the CP202 and CPA402 system
- Advice choosing between separate and integrated amplification
- Power-amplifier and active-loudspeaker matching
- Correct Nytech XLR control-cable guidance
- Third-party XLR and RCA connection advice
- External phono-stage matching
- Streamer, DAC and CD-player connection guidance
- Headphone demonstrations and compatibility advice
- Dealer headphone-level adjustment where appropriate
- Equipment placement and ventilation advice
- Matching real-wood finish guidance
- Direct comparison with the Nytech CA352 integrated amplifier
- Home demonstrations may be available by arrangement
- Part exchange may be available on suitable existing equipment
- Ongoing product and system support
Contact Audio T Cardiff to arrange a demonstration or discuss matching the Nytech CP202 to a power amplifier, sources and headphones.