How to buy a CDS

Posted by: Lars on 13 August 2001

I'm thinking of buying a second hand CDS. The one I have in mind is manufactured in 1993. Is there anything special I should check before deciding whether to buy it or not? How much is the going rate for a s/h CDS?

Rgds,

Lars

It Kan be done!

Posted on: 13 August 2001 by Willem van Gemert

Hi Lars

Do a search on the Forum and you will find quite some useful information (even a picture of a Nextel ring). As far as I can see the most important thing is the state of the Nextel ring (the black rubber ring on which the CD lies). If the wear is (too) obvious, you may sooner or later have a problem with CDs skipping. It is certain that even if the CDS is in good condition, you'll have tracking problems. It's part of the game.
You should also be aware that if the transport dies, there are no new replacements, but maybe you're lucky and Naim have a used one in good condition. Otherwise you can do the upgrade of the head unit to CDS II for around 1600 GBP. You'll have to calculate as well that the CDS' power supply will, like all Naim power supplies, need a recap after 10 years.
All in all, if you're looking for a fuss free CD player, go for a CDX, otherwise go for the CDS, you won't regret it a second!

Ciao!

Willem

Posted on: 13 August 2001 by Phil Barry

Gotta expand on what Willem says.

Yes the CDX is pretty fuss-free. A bare CDX is also fairly music-free when compared to a CDS.

The CDS is sublime, as long as you do as I say and not as I did - to wit, be sure the SNAIC and the burndy are attached correctly (indicator closer to the CDS than to the CDPS).

With the wires the wrong way around, the CDS shows some magic. With the wirs installed correctly, it's sublime and IMO eminently worth the risk.

YMMV.

Phil

Posted on: 14 August 2001 by Willem van Gemert

Phil,

I agree that the CDS is worth the risk. I have a used 1993 CDS myself and I didn't regret a second buying it. It's just that you have to be aware that there are risks buying such an old player.

Ciao!

Willem

Posted on: 14 August 2001 by John

The CDS is well worth the purchase. It's performance is more like the CDS2 than even the CDX/XPS. I actually like it more than the CDS2 when it's on Mana. If you are eventually planning to upgrade to a 52 the CDX route or CDX/XPS will eventually need replacing. Not so with the CDS it will endure all other upgrades. As for a fair price you should be able to find one for 3K to 4K US. Just make sure the nexil ring is in good shape.

John