why cd5 and cd5i still available but no nait5?
Posted by: gavagai on 07 January 2004
Hello,
I recently purchased a Nait5 and stageline (2 weeks ago) and am very happy, but need a cdp to go with my analogue set-up. Whay has the Nait5 been discontinued, but the web site still lists the cd5 and cd5i as both available. The cd5 is more expensive, but I have heard that the cd5 with a flatcap does not sound better than the new cd5i. Cd5 costs a hundreds of US dollars more than the "i" version. Someone please help me sort this problem. Any other cdps that would be recommended for my current set-up: rega Planar 25/dynavector mkII 10X4/nait5/stageline.
Posted on: 08 January 2004 by bigmick
Of course it's subjective, but I honestly think that someone's yanking your chain on the Cd5i/CD5 & Flatcap comparison. I've heard the 5i twice now and thought it a fantastic player, very fast and almost dragging you to your feet. IMO it really does crush any of the sub £1k Arcams. I don't however prefer it to, or think it more capable than, the CD5 which I find to be less lean, more detailed and more accomplished on a wider range of music. The addition of a flatcap or hicap to the 5 then removes any question of comparison with the 5i, such is the leap in performance in every aspect of the music.
If this is a starter or 2nd system which you're not upgrading for a few years then I think that the 5i is the smarter buy and better value then the 5. If not, a 2nd hand 5, or indeed CDX would be my choice adding a second hand cap as and when funds allow. Just an opinion, but bottom line is that you really should audition both and not go by what I or others say. Another thread is running where the poster has done just that with interesting results.
Posted on: 08 January 2004 by HTK
quote:
Originally posted by gavagai:
I have heard that the cd5 with a flatcap does not sound better than the new cd5i.
I would be astonished if that was the case, but if he/she prefered the sound of the CD5i then that's fine. Do what your ears tell you, because when it comes to Naim, cheap does not equal nasty.
As Mick pointed out, there's another thread going at the moment about Cd5i vs Jupiter vs Cd5.
Cheers
Harry
Posted on: 08 January 2004 by gavagai
Thanks for the replies. I guess i'll be spending some time with my dealer this weekend. My dealer has a cd5 demo they are selling for about $50 US more than the new cd5i. I guess i'll just have to listen and decide what the best deal is. Thanks.
Posted on: 08 January 2004 by Manu
Both my 5i have 72 hours of continuous playing, plus 30 previous hours, the CD5i seems to have settled, not the Nait5i (sound is still changing).
CD5 wins, no contest in my opinion.
CD5 sounds bigger, more detailed, more depth, almost the same soundstage, may be slower.
BUt at this price the CD5i is a fantastic player.
Emmanuel
All opinions are my own, and reflect those of the organisation i work for, even if not stipulated.
