Add DAC V1 to UnitiQute OR replace with ND5 XS ?
Posted by: MDOwens on 03 January 2015
My system is NAC82 / NAP250 / HiCAP with LP12 as main source. I wanted to experiment with streaming and added a UnitiQute (v1) and connected the pre-amp out connection to the NAC82 - not an ideal connection I know.
The Qute is very convenient but the sound quality is not too good.
If I am going to sort out the connection to the NAC82 should I add a DAC V1 or swap out the UnitiQute and replace it with a ND5 XS ? (NDX really out of my budget).
Spotify Connect is appealing so the ND5 XS may be a better option just more expensive than the Qute.
Any comments or advice much appreciated
You have a very good pre/amp that would deserve a good streamer. The Qute is a nice all in one solution for a second system but for your setup a NDX would be the right solution (if you love the Naim sound as I do). Why don't you consider a pre loved NDX that would cost you even less that a new ND5 XS or if your wallet can afford it even a new NDX ? In my experience the balance in the setup is very important and if you want a digital source that can pair the quality of your turntable you will need at least an NDX.
best regards
I'd say that 'source first' applies as much to streaming sources as it ever did to analogue. So on paper, you need an NDX......and a lossless source instead of Spotify
No brainer. Of those choices, ND5xs. But your ears should decide, of course.
I currently own both the Dac V1 and the ND5 XS The Dac V1 is probably the slightly better DAC but the ND5 XS is the better complete solution and can be upgraded with a PSU at a latter date.
But listen for yourself if you can
The Qute is very convenient but the sound quality is not too good.
Surprised at that, but to elevate your Qute beyond NDS level just add Hugo. I have an original Qute and playing its optical out through Hugo gives amazing results. It really is that good, but please audition before considering buying one, as my findings may differ from yours.
+1, mines a qute 2 and played through hugo it is really very very good indeed
What is your source material? Will it continue to be Spotify Premium? If so -- don't invest more in a streamer / player solution . . . until you are committed to playing lossless (redbook) or higher quality material.
Thats true. Spotify Premium quality is disappointing. The Hugo might not be to your taste (it certainly was not to mine). The 5xs is the better streamer, fo sho.
That raises a question: if you only use a streamer for Spotify and Radio, the Qute should be enough. True or false?
I'm using a Qute 1 as source into DAC V1. Sounds great to me, but honestly not that far off from a bare UQ, so I can't imagine it sounding terrible, just not quite as smooth and elegant. Maybe check your cables? I paid $3500 for both (V1 used and Qute new old stock) and feel that I have a system that was not only great VFM but I can easily split up and upgrade later on if I like. Of course I didn't have a preamp already in the mix (other than the UQ's).
Perhaps a little out of the box thinking but why not add a Sonos connect and a lossless service like TIDAL or Qobuz? I know it is one more box but at least you are startging with better quality source material.
I also have an LP12 with an Aro/Koetso Red Sig into an 82/135s/HiCaps set up (feeding Ruark Crusader IIs) and tried adding my Unitilite into the system via pre-amp out (Flashback sales cable) while waiting for the speakers for my lounge to arrive. While the sound was great on FLAC, good on CD it was only ok on iRadio and there was no comparison with the LP12. It was pre-Spotify Connect so I cant say for definite what that was like.
Finally to nail my colours to the proverbial mast my lounge system (UniitLite / Guru QM10Twos) is far exceeding my expectations - and that includes Spotify Premium Connect.
Just waiting for the arrival of Naim lossless which I am now completely re-assured will arrive....sometime...
I think you can get Spotify if the NDX is the version which can stream 24bit/192kHz. Earlier NDXs were limited to 96kHz but could be updated to 192kHz with a new board.
Relevant info from Naim:
"NaimUniti, UnitiQute and NDX models are only compatible if they are 24bit/192kHz capable. This hardware was brought into production on all Naim streamers in 2011. To check if your player is compatible, use the remote control to press ‘Tools’ and scroll to ‘Factory Settings > System Status > BC SW’. If the version number displayed begins with ‘3D’ the product is compatible.
If it does not, your product can be upgraded to 24bit/192kHz standard via a hardware change. Please contact your Naim retailer if you wish to upgrade your unit to the latest specification. Please note: this hardware upgrade will involve a charge."
Thanks for the excellent advice folks, much appreciated.
I think NDX / ND5 SX is the route to go for me. I did have a quick look at Hugo but not a listen.
By the way, I disconnected the UnitiQute from my main system and connected it directly to my second system speakers (speakers and cable nothing special). Wow - the Qute sounded just great. Far, far better on its own than connected (badly) to the NAC82 etc. Expensive experiment - the Qute just has to stay as my second room system and now I cannot listen to the old second room streamer.... Ho hum !