Naim XS upgrade path

Posted by: petzhou on 10 July 2016

Hi folks - appreciate your advice.I have an Xs integrated. I would like to start the upgrade path. I was thinking of adding a flatcap xs and then a Nap 155xs. Obviously then an XS 2. Is there a better upgrade path,and should I go for the xs2 at an earlier stage.Should I move away from the xs altogether and move into pre/power territory.????

Many thanks

 

Posted on: 16 July 2016 by Massimo Bertola

Gary,

I admit it may seem a strange suggestion, but it's based on personal experience. I must add that I have very mixed feelings about the Nait XS: I have owned it twice, and was never completely satisfied with it; yet, I know it is a special amp in the Naim catalogue, with qualities that others don't have. It is more refined than any other integrated, and has a special gift for 'disentangling' the inner voices (for lack of a better term). I have often compared it to a smaller, clearer sounding MarkLevinson.

Plus, I must say that having owned a number of FlatCaps, I have never found their effect irreplaceable; while the addition of a PL to my first XS made it a little 'rougher' while retaining its best qualities. My experience is that the PL is best used on a Nait XS or on CD drives. My opinion only!

Best

M

Posted on: 16 July 2016 by gary yeowell

Well we do agree the XS has some special qualities Max. I've still not encountered a Naim amp that matches its 'lyrical flow' as i used to describe it, for want of a better term.

Posted on: 16 July 2016 by Massimo Bertola

I like lyrical flow; it expresses well what I had in mind. And yet, I have heard Roberto's NaitXS sound sharp and loud like an angry little devil... A surprising amp, that I think I haven't allowed myself to learn to appreciate. And that, to my taste, doesn't need special additions.

Posted on: 16 July 2016 by petzhou

Hi all busy and long day at work yesterday,

Only just reviewing all your many messages of advice.

 

Many thanks to you all - beginning to pick up on the theme that Naim owners are very passionate about the brand!!

Peter