First introduction to Naim - whoa!

Posted by: billgpdx on 19 April 2004

Hi all,

First time poster here.

I'm currently auditioning a Nait 5i along with a pair of Spendor S5e speakers. This combination has almost left me speechless. I was sold on this combination until I started browsing around here and discovered that the Nait 5i is not able to power the Stageline.

If I want to stay with the Naim lineup (and I do) my options are to consider the Nait 5i along with a Stageline and a Flatcap 2 to power the Stageline. Or, I could go the NAC 112/NAP 150/Stageline route for at a higher price point. Am I missing any other workarounds here.

Given that I'm quite bowled over by the Nait 5i, is it safe to assume that the NAC 112/NAP 150 combo will create the same sonic bliss for me?

For source components I'm using the following: Linn LP12/Lingo/Akito/Adikt, Arcam FMJ CD23T, and Magnum Dynalab MD-90 tuner.

Thanks for any input/comments,
Bill
Posted on: 19 April 2004 by bazz
Bill

Spendor S5e's are fabulous speakers, well suited to Naim electronics as you have already discovered. I drive mine with a 32.5/Hicap/250 and they just lap up the power.

They are fantastically smoooth, dynamic, uncoloured and just plain enjoyable in my system. I have no doubt that they will respond the further you up the Naim amplification ladder.
Posted on: 19 April 2004 by Doug Graham
Billy

We are currentLy working on a Stageline solution for use with Nait 5i. All Naim preamps (current) have a socket that can supply a Stageline or Prefix with voltage whilst taking back signal. With the 5i you don't get this feature, so, we are testing a Stageline with an AC adaptor (various) in order to provide 5i users the benefit of Stageline without there being the need for a Naim power supply. Of course, the Stageline enjoys being powered by a Flatcap with the 5i but that is a decision one will make depending on how important the vinyl side of things is to the user.

Good news for non Naim owners is that Stageline will be easily integrated with their chosen pre/amp without the need for an additional P/S thereby providing an excellant alternative to what is already available.

It should be noted that no alterations are being made to Stageline in terms of performance to accomodate this type of P/S. Timescale, around summer.

Doug
Posted on: 19 April 2004 by J.N.
Welcome aboard Bill

I use a 112/150 and it's a great combo.

But be aware that the 112 has a 'resistor-ladder'(digital) volume control and the Nait 5i does not.

The RL volume control is able to perform some clever tricks like adjustable sensitivity and matching input levels.

The analogue pot in the 5i cannot perform these tricks, which is a shame; but Naim have apparently decided that old-fashioned analogue pots sound better.

You may wish to bear that in mind.

Good luck.
Posted on: 19 April 2004 by MarkEJ
quote:
Originally posted by bazz:
I drive mine with a 32.5/Hicap/250...


Bazz has it right -- there's your answer. The 552/500 equivalent in its day, and still better than 99% of new kit available. Under a grand for the lot, used, plus about 80 quid for MM phono cards (if needed), then service the lot in your own time. Hard to beat for real value.

Best;

Mark
Posted on: 19 April 2004 by billgpdx
Your prompt replies are appreciated - this is a very responsive board!

Here is another data point:

I'll be establishing a relationship with a new dealer and would like to focus on new gear at this point. I realize that buying used makes better sense from a financial standpoint, but here in the states, two-channel audio is hurting and I'd like to support a place that focuses on just that as much as I can.

Another question:

How do you hook up your Naim gear (integrated or pre/power) to accomodate both a phono stage and a headphone amp?

Thanks again,
Bill
Posted on: 19 April 2004 by Geoff P
Bill

First off welcome. We will be happy to help you spend youre money.

Second. I used to have a 112/150 and liked it very much. I bought a 2nd Hand HiCap after a little while to put between the 112 & 150 and that gave a big expansion to the sound especially with more punchy bass.

Third I bought a Stageline which I powered off the 112. This worked fine, but at a later date during upgrading I had the opportunity to run the Stageline off the HiCap which really expanded it's performance quite a bit.

If you are buying new I would suggest the 112/150 and a Flatcap 2 to run the stageline AND the 112 which will give you benefit in both pieces of kit.

On the Headphone amp connections, the Naim one is called a Headline. If you go to the posting at the top of the HiFi Corner about connecting up, that will send you to a page on the main Naim web site where the instruction manuals are. Pick the one called "connections"and you will get a pdf which shows how things like the stageline and Headline are connected to power supplies.

Lastly. try to hear on demo before buying. It's your ears that matter.

Good luck
GEOFF
Posted on: 20 April 2004 by billgpdx
quote:
But be aware that the 112 has a 'resistor-ladder'(digital) volume control and the Nait 5i does not.

The RL volume control is able to perform some clever tricks like adjustable sensitivity and matching input levels.

The analogue pot in the 5i cannot perform these tricks, which is a shame; but Naim have apparently decided that old-fashioned analogue pots sound better.

You may wish to bear that in mind.


Does the 112 differ from the other preamps in the Naim lineup in this regard?

Thanks,
Bill