Hi everyone,
First time posting and looking to get into the world of Naim!
My first question is actually about a potential upgrade. I have a Naim 5i (non italic) available to me, but currently use a Cambridge CXA60. The CXA60 has an onboard Dac which is convenient, and has many inputs. However, I use an external DAC and only 2 of the inputs, so I don't take huge advantage of the features. It's 60w at 8ohms, and 80w at 4 ohm stable, which is versatile, but currently I'm using quite sensitive Focal Aria bookshelves.
Sound I've noticed so far from the Cambridge is great. Engaging, rhythmic, with a slight layer over the sound which seems to round things off a bit and bring it together musically. Hard to describe but it's there when compared to reference amps (Yamaha, Rotel, JVC, NAD).
I really like a forward musical sound and am sensitive to sibilance, but I don't enjoy a warm/dark/laidback sound similar to what my NAD reference amp produces. Also enjoy wide soundstages (the Cambridge is decent, and I think speaker positioning and speaker choice probably makes a bigger difference here).
So my big question is whether or not it really makes sense to swap over to the Nait 5i. Do you think it would be a significant or noteworthy improvement? Or is it a sidestep at best? Does the Nait really represent the Naim house sound? Is there even a Naim house sound?
All suggestions and advice appreciated, thanks!
Posted on: 13 January 2017 by wenger2015
Hi, and welcome to the Forum, I used to have the 5i italic, excellent entry level amp. Does it represent the naim sound? Yes because it's naim, but it is as said entry level....the only way to find out if it's for you is by having a home demo..
I've since been on the upgrade path and it goes without saying the more you spend on naim gear the better performance you get.
I think if I had my time again I would probably skip the 5i and start with the SN1 , their are plenty of pre-loved examples available at good prices.
But as said, theirs only one way to find out if Naim is for you...
Posted on: 13 January 2017 by Ardbeg10y
As per Wengers suggestion ...
I had my eyes on the CXA60 before I auditioned the SN1.
SN1 has loads of power, can be forward, is very dynamic. Has a Dac. Is not really hifi, but will give a lot of fun.
You write that you like a wide soundstage. This works on my SN1 for relatively simple music - lets say a small Jazz ensemble. This kind of music gets pictured well. But, be aware that Naim is not known for its soundstage. Rythm, Dynamic, thats what Naim has plenty. Read a bit on 'flat earth' etc ...
In my experience (only 1.5 years now), soundstage is also strongly dependent on the amount of details the Dac pushes to the Amp. So, if your Dac are good, the soundstage might be good. Can't comment too much on this unfortunately. I mainly listen to Symphonies, and soundstage is a bit less important here.
The SN1 will allow you to drive much larger speakers if you want to.
Don't audition it, you will be hooked.
Nait 5i is a typical Naim Amp for sure. It loves to work hard.
