Upgrade advice pls

Hi Alan,

A 2nd hand CDS3 is fantastic value and I would probably do that first.

A 250DR on the other hand is also an excellent upgrade but you will need a hi-cap.   I would be inclined to go for the 250 first if your speakers were demanding if not the CDS3.

Regards,

Lindsay 

Is the cds3 far better than the cdx or is it just better transparency 

CDS3 vs CDX in my experience was a step change across the board. I would not pick out one defining characteristic. Class above CDX, or indeed any other CD player I ever owned. Magical component; only my commitment to downloads and ripped music on the NAS etc means I don't still have it.

Bruce

FAR better across the board.  Music maker of the highest level.

I would suggest either CDS3 or 250.2 will make a difference and 282 will benefit from Hicap (as said above, you will need one of these if you get 250 anyway)

Although, as always, try and have a listen to the options if at all possible

HicapDR on 282 that's what your system is whispering and craving for coming alive.

No need at all CDS3 at this stage.

Alan, I own a CDS3 and run it with lesser amplification than yours. Sublime.

Chris

SH CDS3s are very good value these days. Had mine for about 9 years and it is stopping me switching to streaming. Sublime music maker and head, shoulders and toes above an X imo. They are discontinued so some risk if repairs are needed down the line. After that hicap then nap.

Dave

Alan johnson posted:

Is the cds3 far better than the cdx or is it just better transparency 

I'm not sure about transparency - whatever you mean by that - but it's far better at getting to the heart of the music. If you don't have a Hicap DR on the 282 I'd get that before changing the CD player though. 

Thanks gents appreciate the input .. I might then demo a hcdr first and take it from there... I take it though naim would still service a cds3 if I required it in the future?

Apparently Naim have stockpiled parts for the CDS3. 

HiCap and / or NAP 250DR

Hard to believe someone would own kit like that without a proper PSU for the 282.  A Hicap will definitely be a big game changer for a relatively small outlay....that's where I would start.

What are you speakers Alan? They may allow for a possible upgrade too. If your CDX2 is a post 2009 unit offering a digital output, I would also consider nDac in par with 250.2 or 250DR. nDac is certainly a great and indémodable box that opens a large door to demat and streaming that I am sure you will eventually enjoy.    

Chag - 

Another vote for adding a HCDR to the 282. Then let the dust settle for at least 6 months and decide if you want/need to change further.