FC2 or 2 used Hicaps?

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Originally posted by jimj:
I am planning ahead for my power supply upgrade for my NAIT5/CD5 system.
It looks like the cost of a new FC2 is about the same as the cost of two 2nd hand Hicaps.
I don't have a dealer within 100+ miles that can demo both of the units.
Does anyone have experience with the CD5 with FC vs. HCap? NAIT5 with FC vs. HCap?
Thanks-this is going to be my Christmas present and I'd like to start looking in the right direction now.
Jimj

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2 hicaps for superior regulation and power.

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It looks like the cost of a new FC2 is about the same as the cost of two 2nd hand Hicaps.

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Are you sure? Don't know what US prices are like, but here a new FC2 is £500, and used olive HCs are £450-500 or more. I paid 475 for a 1998 olive HC last year.

Steve.

It's a grand old team to play for...

Here's the cost breakdown as I see it:

A new FC2 is (all USD) $950 and comes with only one connector cable. The second cable plus sales tax puts it at over $1,150.

I recently saw 3 or 4 2nd hand HiCaps listed on a board for $450-$500. One for $500 had been serviced by Naim in December (it is sold.)
If those prices are representative in the US, I figure I could pick up 2 HiCaps for $1,000.
No tax, both with cables, negotiate shipping.
Use good due diligence and be willing to wait for the right deal.

Having bought the NAIT5/CD5 before the first kid started attending the University, this is going to be my Christmas present, so
I have plenty of time.

My only experience with an outboard power supply was hearing a NAIT3 with a FC. That was several years ago, but I will never forget the added width and depth to the soundstage. Also, with the FC, I heard the sound of the symphony hall in the second or so before the downbeat. Amazing. That convinced me to put the power supply in the plan.

Which way to go, considering my system, is my question.

Thanks Steve for your input. Hope this explains what my thinking is.

I'd go for 2 hicaps. Even if they are not close in age they are more usable in upgrades than a FC2. I have a FC2 and now have 2 hicaps uprgading my 82. Half the FC2 isn't used. I think it's meant for teh lower end gear and the Hicaps are for the midrange then Super for top range.

Life is analogue

I find your sums questionable (s/h hicaps for <$500 really!!) but you can't really go wrong with a HiCAP.
If you can get one (or two) for anything like $500 that haven't got a service imminent you should go for it.

I have just purchased 2 Hicaps one for my CD3.5 the other for my 92R preamp. The difference over the FC option was incredable even the wife could tell the difference!!

Give your wife a hug and a kiss, then put on her favorite music. Rewards like that will be remebered in the future when you want to upgrade.

Life is analogue