Up-grading “sideways”

Posted by: uem on 27 March 2003

Up-grading “sideways”

I’m aware, it’s a much-debated topic recently: How good is the new NAIM gear compared to the older series.

Specifically:
Have any of you done a comparison between the 52/SC and the new 282/SC2 (or XPS2 ? if there is such an option)
Case in point would be a second-hand 52 against a new 282/XPS2. Is it an alternative worthwhile to pursue?
Likewise: CDS2/(XPS) versus CDX 2 /XPS2 ?
In this case I would trade in my CDS2 against a new CDX 2/XPS2, (to maintain “optical integrity”, which of course is crazy, I admit !!)

Thanks for any feedback

Urs

Posted on: 27 March 2003 by Bosh

Naim told me that the 282/super is halfway between the 82 and 52. The general rule seems to be to make 2 hierarchy step jumps for it to be truly worthwhile though (eg 102-52, 140-250) so it depends where you are now

Posted on: 27 March 2003 by Paul B

I am sure that Naim would be only too delighted to have you trade "sideways" like this. Personally, I believe it would be pointless and a doubtful improvement IMO. Based on my experience with the new line such moves would be different not always better. However, I've had only limited experience with the new gear and I am only basing my opinion on that.

IMO, after a brief listen (which was all that was necessary), the CDS2 was obviously better than a CDX2. Both used the XPS2. The 300 was not better than 135s in all areas but certainly different.

A long time ago on this forum it was suggested that to be truly meaningful an upgrade should be two steps above the existing component you wish to replace. This isn't always true but if you have a 52, I certainly would keep it until a 552 was possible; if 135s, until a 500; and with the CDS2, I would wait for the CDS3, although I might consider an XPS2 in the meantime but only if the CDS3 will use the XPS2 too as its power supply (does it?).

In the meantime, spend your money on music!

Paul

Posted on: 27 March 2003 by J.N.

uem

I moved sideways/downwards(?) from 'olive' amps to the 'reference' amps, because I prefer the sound of the new stuff.

A 202/200 sounds very different to a 102/180.

As ever; you must find a good dealer and listen.