Naim AV2 - as a stereo pre-amp and DAC

If the Arcam DVD/AV2 combination was as good as CD5/Nait5 into a 150, then you've pretty much got what you were after haven't you? Then you could make improvements by adding the 112 later, followed by the CDX2 you'll be craving by then.

Incidentally, on the surround sound front, the AV2 is the most natural sounding processor I've heard yet - honest! The TAG is more impressive but it does it through being more obvious (and therefore artificial) and the new Arcam FMJ had fabulous resolution but again I felt (on one 4-hour listening session) that it was more obvious than the Naim. Don't ask me to choose between Arcam and TAG though - that would be difficult.

Regards,
Frank.
All opinions are my own and do not reflect the opinion of any organisations I work for, except where this is stated explicitly.

So the NAC 112 is much better than the AV2 and it has no flacap possibility I guess?
I was planning to sell my NAC for an AV2, but I'll stick with it and my kenwood amp-microwave-refrigerator-christmass-tree-processor, go for a NAP 200 and plug the NAP 150 on the subs.

Well... I'll listen first

Well based on what I've now experienced, I'd now be inclined to go with a cheapy processor/av amp and a good stereo pre-amp/power amp.

So your thoughts on the 200 looks like a better idea to me.

Frankly I'm not sure how much difference a better AV system would make to movies when you already have at least a base level system.

Yup gone for the same, the Yamaha DSP-E800 works realy well for me as an AV processor. Going to to do the amps and speakers first then probably go for the AV2 once a video switcher is available (hoping it will do what I need)

Mike,

Thanks for providing your impressions from your post on the hifichoice forum.

You wrote:

quote:

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If you want to know why I didn't post it here, it's because when I've previously asked for existing views on the unit on this forum, I had no significant response, whilst the hi-fi choice boys at least made some effort

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I'd be surprised if anyone got a "significant response" on the AV2 on this forum. It's worth keeping in mind that the numbers of owners is relatively low in comparison to other Naim components. Who knows how many existing AV2 owners actively participate on this forum? BTW, don't overlook the "Hi-Fi Corner" effect of limiting AV discussion. But to be fair, there is some solid information posted here from over the past year and I've always found a member or two willing to offer good guidance.

For me, the 112 is not enough of a gain over the AV2. So I tend to agree with Frank's comments above on AV2+Arcam DVD/CD combination with other add-ons to follow over time. But I'm happy to hear that you were able to demo the AV2 and establish your own priorities and preferences!

Good luck with your future purchases and keep us posted.