CD5XT vs AppleTV with nDAC

Posted by: nap-ster on 21 July 2010

Well, I've had my CD5X back for about a week now after the transport modification at Naim and I've been comparing it to the AppleTV.
The CD5XT is connected to the nDAC using a Mark Grant G1000HD BNC to BNC and the ATV is connected with a Chord Optichord and streaming Apple lossless via ReadyNAS / iTunes / XP.

It is quite a simple conclusion as the CD5XT is markedly better sounding to me. The vocal is clearer and sharper and more upfront. There is more rhythm and better definition of individual instruments.

No idea why of course.
Posted on: 21 July 2010 by PureHifi
There is life left in CD's and players yet...thank goodness Smile

However, there are better digital playback devices than apple products and iTunes. Convenience wise a UnitiServe will be right up my alley, but I still prefer a CDX2.
Posted on: 22 July 2010 by nap-ster
Yes the Unitiserve would be the obvious choice. I had been toying with the idea of getting a MiniMac + M2Tech but I'm starting to have doubts now!
Posted on: 22 July 2010 by Eloise
quote:
Originally posted by nap-ster:
Yes the Unitiserve would be the obvious choice. I had been toying with the idea of getting a MiniMac + M2Tech but I'm starting to have doubts now!

I think you'll find there is a big difference between the quality of a MacMini + M2Tech (plus maybe Pure Music or Amarra) than using the AppleTV so if your AppleTV vs CD5X-T is your basis for avoiding the MacMini system then you may wish to think / experiment further.

Eloise
Posted on: 22 July 2010 by james n
I can understand the convenience of the Unitserve - its an excellent all in one solution and for some its the extra comfort of the glowing green badge that'll sell it. As Eloise has said, the Mini is well worth a look, iTunes is an excellent interface and you'd certainly have no trouble matching the Unitserve output for half the price. (Mini, Pur music, Hiface)

James