Upgrade path
Posted by: hank on 14 November 2015
Hi all, my system is , cd5xs powered by flatcap x2, into ndac with nac 122x and 150x and arrivas, i have tried sbls and preferred the arrivas, yes sbls had good seals and seemed clearer in some areas but lacked the base, so im wondering if i s400s may be the way to go or maybe 282 or xps for the dac
Base issues will be the 150 not the sbls?. From what I understand sbl should be up against a wall?
Maybe you have done that. 282 will be a big step up but you will need to balance your system starting from the source and ending with your speakers.
I have no base issues with the arrivas tho, is running the cd with the dac no a good upgrade as i read that the cd5xs with a dac plus xps was better than a stand alone cdx2?
I'm in the camp that believes that the preamp is really part of the "source". I would leave things as they are and try a 282- I'd be surprised if you are not pleased with what it brings to the party.
Good luck,
Mark
If it was me. I'd blow the cd5x flatcap,122, 150.
id get the cds3 xps, nac52/ supercap, and olive 250
Then live with my arrivas for a while. Then I'd try the sbls mk11.
After all that try the s400.
Speaking for myself I would end up with sbl's.
Speakers would be the last thing on my shoppiNg list.
Remember 282 needs a power supply and a flat doesn't cut it.
Sounsfaber!
You have described an excellent set up which by pure coincidence is exactly what I have except I have my own built loudspeakers and a Nat 02. Lovely sounding system.
I have no base issues with the arrivas tho, is running the cd with the dac no a good upgrade as i read that the cd5xs with a dac plus xps was better than a stand alone cdx2?
If so that is fantastic, because a standalone CDX2 is outstanding (Into my 252 DR using a Hiline).. But I also doubt it. I used to own a NDAC, and for me it was it its best only with a 555PS and with that it was jolly good. Even then however it could not render the essence of what the CDX2 (original) is all about... which is drive and emotion.. Sure perhaps not optimum for all music types, but blues, heavy blues, rock, orchestral, electronic dance music, northern soul etc it's fab..
Simon
"a standalone CDX2 is outstanding (Into my 252 DR using a Hiline).. But I also doubt it. I used to own a NDAC, and for me it was it its best only with a 555PS and with that it was jolly good. Even then however it could not render the essence of what the CDX2 (original) is all about... which is drive and emotion.. Sure perhaps not optimum for all music types, but blues, heavy blues, rock, orchestral, electronic dance music, northern soul etc it's fab.
Simon"
Please excuse me OP, for butting in.
Simon it appears that your DR front and rear end, has resurrected your Cdx2! I seem to follow your lead, but I don't see you calling the SL, STA, or the latest Chord Music post. Perhaps not your cup of tea!
Keep up the good work, very helpful with Forum members.
Out!!!
Hi, I don't have a DR backend yet.. Although it sounds painful I think I know what you mean.... Glad you find my musings and ramblings of interest 
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From:"Naim Audio Forums" <alerts@hoop.la>
Date:Sun, Nov 15, 2015 at 10:15
Subject:Reply By Allante93: Upgrade path
well thanks for the advice tho at 3years old n 1500 iv bought the s400s,.......
......
It was a pleasure, Hank. Just remember me at Christmas!
Cheers, Chris
i had a 122,150 with credos. went to SBLs they were great. Went to 202/200 they got better.
Cheers for the imput chaps, at 3years old n £1500 iv bought the s400s, first impression i like them, more clarity than my arrivas and not turning the volume up as much to enjoy them, think next will be looking for a nac 282 and nap 250 when funds allow