amp u/g or fraim?

Posted by: woody on 01 October 2003

I'm totally in love with the look of the Fraim...but it's sooooo expensive.

How much of an improvement would a Fraim make to my system (Nait5,CD5,FC2) or would it be a complete waste of money (sonically - still beautiful piece of furniture!). Alternatively would I be better off keeping my existing stand (hateful apollo glass + steel thing) and upgrading amp for 112/150 pre-power? Can't really afford to do both Frown
Posted on: 01 October 2003 by Bob Edwards
Woody--

I'd suggest that the Fraim would be a much more substantial upgrade than the 112/150.

Best,

Bob
Posted on: 01 October 2003 by woody
Bob,

Thanks for the advice...is a good support really so important? I've always assumed great electronics on an OK support is better than OK electronics on a great support.

- woody
Posted on: 01 October 2003 by Bob Edwards
Woody--

You're certainly correct in saying that great electronics on an OK support are better than lesser electronics on a good support. However, I think the Fraim represents a MUCH bigger upgrade over the Apollo than a 112/150 represent over a Nait 5. If you were jumping to something like a 82/Hi/250, I'd say get the electronics.

And John Toon is correct--the Fraim is but one option. I personally think it is the best option, but there are others...

Best,

Bob
Posted on: 01 October 2003 by J.N.
Woody

I have Fraim but went through that 'It can't possibly be worth it' phase, before I bit the bullet.

You have to clear the psychological hurdle that it's not silly money for something to stand your kit on - it's a logical upgrade for the system.

Without it; you will never realise the full potential of what you have.

And; because it's modular, it makes sense to get Fraim whilst the system is simple and buy extra levels as extra boxes arrive.

I've just Fraimed my number two system of:-

CD3 - 112 - 150 - Linn Saras.

A veritable revelation!

Go for it.
Posted on: 02 October 2003 by Maxi Me
Tut, tut, Woody!

You just can't resist the upgrade bug can you?
Don't give in, my system is on a Soundstyle XS105 and sounds great to me. [I'm still avoiding Pat and a loan on that NAP150 Smile]

Upgrade wise I think the 112 is a sideways step from the Nait as a pre-amp only, so only the 150 required.

The Fraim does look good though Big Grin

Seth
Is Naim the only way forward?
Ahh, Ahh! I'm burning!!
Posted on: 02 October 2003 by prowla
Naim kit sounds great if it's a pile of boxes stacked on the floor.
SWMBO hated the look of the Fraim, and I hated the price, so we've got a glass+steel legs Optimum rack.

Paul Rowlands
Posted on: 03 October 2003 by NB
one of the biggest up-grades I made was up-grading my support to the Naim Fraim.

It reaaly does open up the music and in the long term has to be worth it!

Regards

NB
Posted on: 03 October 2003 by Rasher
And if you upgrade the electrics first, then you really are being limited by the Apollo!!
(not that I can talk Frown)
Posted on: 03 October 2003 by adamk
Go for the amp upgrade.

I am currently limiting my system with Soundstyle stands. Still sounds good to me.

I don't think your present system or your proposed upgrade system justifies a 4 figure stand. There are other stands available (for a lot less money)...

Get a dem organised and use your ears.
Regards
Adam
Posted on: 03 October 2003 by woody
quote:
Originally posted by Maxi Me:
Tut, tut, Woody!

You just can't resist the upgrade bug can you?
Don't give in, my system is on a Soundstyle XS105 and sounds great to me. [I'm still avoiding Pat and a loan on that NAP150 Smile]

Upgrade wise I think the 112 is a sideways step from the Nait as a pre-amp only, so only the 150 required.

The Fraim does look good though Big Grin

Seth
_Is Naim the only way forward?
Ahh, Ahh! I'm burning!!_

seth,

not really upgrade bug just want to combine redecoration of the flat with some new furniture - and that could include the fraim Smile

I really do love my little naim system...Smile

- woody