Should I buy an nvi?
Posted by: David Sutton on 06 October 2007
We have a family system consisting of Sony components (DVD/VCR/Satellite/Receiver)into KEF speakers. The Sony DVD and receiver are long in the tooth now and should be replaced as they are becoming unreliable.
The nvi is an obvious choice. But I have read so much traffic about set up, software, etc, I am wondering how reliable it may be. There is not a Naim distributor in Abu Dhabi, so getting a dealer to visit the home and attend to problems will be an issue.
I would be very grateful to learn of owners experiences and feedback please.
David
The nvi is an obvious choice. But I have read so much traffic about set up, software, etc, I am wondering how reliable it may be. There is not a Naim distributor in Abu Dhabi, so getting a dealer to visit the home and attend to problems will be an issue.
I would be very grateful to learn of owners experiences and feedback please.
David
Posted on: 06 October 2007 by Toeknee
Hi David,
I Have had an N-Vi for about 3 months now and I am really enjoying it. The sound and picture are outstanding. It is an odd product as it is not perfect and has a fair few "features" that you would not find with a more mainstream manufacturer. I am going to have to return mine to the factory for an intermittent fault which requires a hard rest but I have been told THREE weeks to get it back so I am hanging in till they can upgrade the SW at the same time.
The form factor is amazing for its size it really does it all with sensitive speakers it just kicks arse with both music and movies. I use it to drive both a Panasonic plasma screen via component and a Sanyo projector via HDMI. The integration of a fabulous pic and outstanding sound takes movies to another level compared to the combination of Rotel power amps I had previously.
I am hoping that the next software upgrade will remove some of those "features" e.g. the pressing buttons twice if the display is off and the odd unexpected reboot.
Would I buy one again - hell yes.
Regards Tony
I Have had an N-Vi for about 3 months now and I am really enjoying it. The sound and picture are outstanding. It is an odd product as it is not perfect and has a fair few "features" that you would not find with a more mainstream manufacturer. I am going to have to return mine to the factory for an intermittent fault which requires a hard rest but I have been told THREE weeks to get it back so I am hanging in till they can upgrade the SW at the same time.
The form factor is amazing for its size it really does it all with sensitive speakers it just kicks arse with both music and movies. I use it to drive both a Panasonic plasma screen via component and a Sanyo projector via HDMI. The integration of a fabulous pic and outstanding sound takes movies to another level compared to the combination of Rotel power amps I had previously.
I am hoping that the next software upgrade will remove some of those "features" e.g. the pressing buttons twice if the display is off and the odd unexpected reboot.
Would I buy one again - hell yes.
Regards Tony
Posted on: 06 October 2007 by David Sutton
Thanks Tony,
I am not yet convinced by your reply, sorry. 3 weeks back at Naim for fixing would be at least 6 weeks for me. I am hoping for a product that I can take out of the box and use, and expect that the family can use whilst I am overseas on business. Special codes with key strokes sounds like an unfinished product to me......
David
I am not yet convinced by your reply, sorry. 3 weeks back at Naim for fixing would be at least 6 weeks for me. I am hoping for a product that I can take out of the box and use, and expect that the family can use whilst I am overseas on business. Special codes with key strokes sounds like an unfinished product to me......
David
Posted on: 06 October 2007 by AV@naim
quote:Originally posted by Toeknee:
I am hoping that the next software upgrade will remove some of those "features" e.g. the pressing buttons twice if the display is off
Regards Tony
The two button press has been removed ...
Posted on: 06 October 2007 by Toeknee
David,
It is a tough call as you have limited dealer support in your area and I think the support is part of what Naim prides itself on (the N-Vi is my first Naim experience). The sonic/pic quality and physical form factor really do make up for the issues I have had.
If you could get a demo you would see why it is such an impressive and flexibe unit. I had spent around the same amount on an AV system previously and frankly the 2 channel was rubbish but since the N-Vi, I have bought so many new CDs.
If you could find a dealer who would give the unit a soak test and perhaps send you a unit on sale or return. It would be a terrible shame not to try this unit before you invest in a mainstream brand.
I am sure another N-Vi owner will be along and will give you another opinion.
Regards Tony
P.S. Please Naim release that patch so I can send my unit back and get my error cleared at the same time.
It is a tough call as you have limited dealer support in your area and I think the support is part of what Naim prides itself on (the N-Vi is my first Naim experience). The sonic/pic quality and physical form factor really do make up for the issues I have had.
If you could get a demo you would see why it is such an impressive and flexibe unit. I had spent around the same amount on an AV system previously and frankly the 2 channel was rubbish but since the N-Vi, I have bought so many new CDs.
If you could find a dealer who would give the unit a soak test and perhaps send you a unit on sale or return. It would be a terrible shame not to try this unit before you invest in a mainstream brand.
I am sure another N-Vi owner will be along and will give you another opinion.
Regards Tony
P.S. Please Naim release that patch so I can send my unit back and get my error cleared at the same time.
Posted on: 07 October 2007 by Tuan
quote:Originally posted by David Sutton:
Thanks Tony,
I am not yet convinced by your reply, sorry. 3 weeks back at Naim for fixing would be at least 6 weeks for me. I am hoping for a product that I can take out of the box and use, and expect that the family can use whilst I am overseas on business. Special codes with key strokes sounds like an unfinished product to me......
David
Well spoken! A commerial product should be fully tested before introducing it to the market. 6 weeks to fix a problem (and there will be many problems) then it will be a NO purchase. I would do the same.
Posted on: 07 October 2007 by David Dever
From someone who actually uses one at home (as opposed to those who can only guess about such things ^ ^ ^ ^), and has seen the gamut of software issues and problems over the product's history, I'd say that the biggest issues have already been dealt with–the current software seems quite stable and functional (as one would have liked to have seen the product at the outset).
As an all-in-one solution, it's as good as you might expect it to be, given the brand and the price–but there are plenty of less-expensive all-in-one options out there, and it's worth seeing what fits the bill for your particular application.
Lastly, and most importantly, it is crucial that you enter the process (regardless of which product you choose) with a dealer who knows the product(s) they sell inside and out–AV products are complicated, and problem-solving (which is a part of any, potentially misconfigured setup) requires that one understands the interrelation between all of the connected items (cable/satellite tuner, display, remote control repeaters. etc.), all of which would probably differ by manufacturer.
As the n-Vi's software can be easily updated via CD-R, there's absolutely no reason that a unit in the field could not be kept as up-to-date as possible.
As an all-in-one solution, it's as good as you might expect it to be, given the brand and the price–but there are plenty of less-expensive all-in-one options out there, and it's worth seeing what fits the bill for your particular application.
Lastly, and most importantly, it is crucial that you enter the process (regardless of which product you choose) with a dealer who knows the product(s) they sell inside and out–AV products are complicated, and problem-solving (which is a part of any, potentially misconfigured setup) requires that one understands the interrelation between all of the connected items (cable/satellite tuner, display, remote control repeaters. etc.), all of which would probably differ by manufacturer.
As the n-Vi's software can be easily updated via CD-R, there's absolutely no reason that a unit in the field could not be kept as up-to-date as possible.
Posted on: 07 October 2007 by Tuan
quote:Originally posted by David Dever:
From someone who actually uses one at home (as opposed to those who can only guess about such things ^ ^ ^ ^), and has seen the gamut of software issues and problems over the product's history, I'd say that the biggest issues have already been dealt with–the current software seems quite stable and functional (as one would have liked to have seen the product at the outset).
As an all-in-one solution, it's as good as you might expect it to be, given the brand and the price–but there are plenty of less-expensive all-in-one options out there, and it's worth seeing what fits the bill for your particular application.
Lastly, and most importantly, it is crucial that you enter the process (regardless of which product you choose) with a dealer who knows the product(s) they sell inside and out–AV products are complicated, and problem-solving (which is a part of any, potentially misconfigured setup) requires that one understands the interrelation between all of the connected items (cable/satellite tuner, display, remote control repeaters. etc.), all of which would probably differ by manufacturer.
As the n-Vi's software can be easily updated via CD-R, there's absolutely no reason that a unit in the field could not be kept as up-to-date as possible.
You work for Naim I guess.
Posted on: 07 October 2007 by David Dever
The same advice would be true for a product by any manufacturer, including Sony–it gets really difficult to troubleshoot if your partner in the process doesn't understand the basic concepts (in spite of selling similar products for years).
Besides, I like to break things–not very useful in nuclear engineering.
Besides, I like to break things–not very useful in nuclear engineering.
Posted on: 07 October 2007 by AV@naim
...didnt Sony end up ditching "Connect software" for the NW-A1000 after many months of release and complaints from customers..including myself?
Now I am using a Sony product with chopped functionality...(that also repeats the same track within minutes on shuffle)
Now I am using a Sony product with chopped functionality...(that also repeats the same track within minutes on shuffle)
Posted on: 08 October 2007 by StephenN
David, I would like to add my voice to the n-vi debate. I have owned an n-vi for almost a year and would definitely make the same choice again. It is a fabulous piece of kit. Fortunately, I only started reading this forum after I purchased the n-vi otherwise based on what I have read here, I may not have purchased! Don’t be put off. I was unhappy with the system when first installed as I expected a much better sound for my money. It took a full 2 months for the system to burn in and now it is just wonderful. The DVD picture quality is excellent and the sound tracks are… actually I don’t notice the sound as I am too involved with the film. I listen to CD’s most of the time and these have become a truly wonderful experience. One word of warning, my bedroom hifi was always my sanctuary but since having the n-vi in the lounge everything else is disappointing.
Posted on: 08 October 2007 by Mr Underhill
David,
My approach to this would be:
1. HiDef:
Competing formats - MAY become mainstream, may die.
2. SD DVD:
How many DVDs do you currently own? Do you have an investment in the format?
3. HiFi:
Do you listen to music? How often? Do you have a current HiFi? What?
Because of 1. personally I would make no purchase of HiDef discs; hardware that also plays SD-DVD might be another question.
I would demo the n-vi, and borrow one. Having gone so far as to post onto a forum I would want to listen to it, not just listen to what some random strangers say about it.
Having done that, or at the same time, I would compare this to my current HiFi with music and DVD.
Possible solutions include:
1. Sticking with what you have for the moment;
2. Getting the n-vi;
3. Upgrading your current hifi;
4. 3 plus adding a processor + DVD player.
I bought the DVD5 when it came out. There were major issues with it, but with Naim & my dealer they were sorted. I am also confident that my DVD5 will be supported in 5 years time, Naim look after their products and their customers.
M
My approach to this would be:
1. HiDef:
Competing formats - MAY become mainstream, may die.
2. SD DVD:
How many DVDs do you currently own? Do you have an investment in the format?
3. HiFi:
Do you listen to music? How often? Do you have a current HiFi? What?
Because of 1. personally I would make no purchase of HiDef discs; hardware that also plays SD-DVD might be another question.
I would demo the n-vi, and borrow one. Having gone so far as to post onto a forum I would want to listen to it, not just listen to what some random strangers say about it.
Having done that, or at the same time, I would compare this to my current HiFi with music and DVD.
Possible solutions include:
1. Sticking with what you have for the moment;
2. Getting the n-vi;
3. Upgrading your current hifi;
4. 3 plus adding a processor + DVD player.
I bought the DVD5 when it came out. There were major issues with it, but with Naim & my dealer they were sorted. I am also confident that my DVD5 will be supported in 5 years time, Naim look after their products and their customers.
M
Posted on: 08 October 2007 by Mike1380
Mine's exceedingly good. Gets daily use, and I couldn't think of a better product to add AV to my naim 2 channel setup.
Saw a friend's Arcam Solo Movie recently.... not bad, but not a patch on my n-vi for sound or picture.... and it's not designed to integrate into an existing 2 channel setup either (no preout for front 2 channels).
Must say though, their 8 page remote was quite impressive... he had it firing up his screen, fully controlling his Sky box etc...
We played around with the RC at mine & even managed to make it work my V+ box in full and learn the discrete AV volume codes that run Naim AV2/n-Vi volume separate from all the 2 channel volume controls...
It's the same shape as the new mainstream Naim 2 channel remote, so must come from the same factory...
Now, if the boys in Salisbury could make a swanky Black & Chunky version of this with green backlighting I'd be very tempted.
Saw a friend's Arcam Solo Movie recently.... not bad, but not a patch on my n-vi for sound or picture.... and it's not designed to integrate into an existing 2 channel setup either (no preout for front 2 channels).
Must say though, their 8 page remote was quite impressive... he had it firing up his screen, fully controlling his Sky box etc...
We played around with the RC at mine & even managed to make it work my V+ box in full and learn the discrete AV volume codes that run Naim AV2/n-Vi volume separate from all the 2 channel volume controls...
It's the same shape as the new mainstream Naim 2 channel remote, so must come from the same factory...
Now, if the boys in Salisbury could make a swanky Black & Chunky version of this with green backlighting I'd be very tempted.
Posted on: 08 October 2007 by Mr Underhill
quote:Originally posted by Mike1380
Now, if the boys in Salisbury could make a swanky Black & Chunky version of this with green backlighting I'd be very tempted.
Know what you mean. I've been using a SONY universal backlite jobby for the last few years.
M
Posted on: 08 October 2007 by Roy Donaldson
They should just OEM the Home Theatre Master remotes from the US as one of their competitors does. Easily programmed up to control all the Naim kit and anything else you may have while at it.
Roy.
Roy.
Posted on: 08 October 2007 by Roy Donaldson
I suppose the 3 bits of kit that are competitive here are:
* Arcam Solo
* Naim n-Vi
* Meridian G95
Anyone managed to do a full comparison between all 3 ?
Roy.
* Arcam Solo
* Naim n-Vi
* Meridian G95
Anyone managed to do a full comparison between all 3 ?
Roy.
Posted on: 09 October 2007 by Don Atkinson
quote:Now I am using a Sony product with chopped functionality...(that also repeats the same track within minutes on shuffle)
Just about the most amusing letter of resignation that I have ever seen...........
Cheers
Don
Posted on: 09 October 2007 by AV@naim
Well, if we'd have already designed and made an MP3 player, I'd be using that now...
Posted on: 09 October 2007 by David Sutton
Thanks everyone.
The AV system is very much secondary to my 2 channel set up (LP12/555/552 etc). I have been a customer of Naim since 1981.
However, all of this is wasted if I buy an N-Vi and discover it is unreliable. This seems to be the case with posts on this forum.
David
The AV system is very much secondary to my 2 channel set up (LP12/555/552 etc). I have been a customer of Naim since 1981.
However, all of this is wasted if I buy an N-Vi and discover it is unreliable. This seems to be the case with posts on this forum.
David
Posted on: 09 October 2007 by u5227470736789439
Dear Dave,
I think a quiet word in a dealer's ear will reveal the truth about reliability, rather than comments here! I would imagine that along with other companys' AV products, it is possible to conceive that the nVi has proven less reliable than the classic two channel Naim pieces, but the Forum is no way to gather a real statically based assessment of it!
A dealer's ear is your best place to to start hunting advice, and if you go ahead, if anything crops up, help in solving it...
ATB from George
I think a quiet word in a dealer's ear will reveal the truth about reliability, rather than comments here! I would imagine that along with other companys' AV products, it is possible to conceive that the nVi has proven less reliable than the classic two channel Naim pieces, but the Forum is no way to gather a real statically based assessment of it!
A dealer's ear is your best place to to start hunting advice, and if you go ahead, if anything crops up, help in solving it...
ATB from George
Posted on: 09 October 2007 by David Sutton
George,
Good advice! As I do not have a dealer in Abu Dhabi, I will try elsewhere, and take a straw poll from a few.
Many thanks
David
Good advice! As I do not have a dealer in Abu Dhabi, I will try elsewhere, and take a straw poll from a few.
Many thanks
David
Posted on: 10 October 2007 by Don Atkinson
David,
During my days in the Emirates (ok it was the Trucial States then), VV & Sons were the only hifi dealer in Abu Dhabi. Most people bought their stuff in Dubai (where the only hifi dealer was the other branch of VV & Sons.)
Isn't there a Naim distributer in Dubai? (Dubai Audio Centre?)
When I was based in Sharjah, I used to drive to Abu Dhabi to see various mates. It only took about 4 hours, and that was before there was a road.
Surely the journey Abu Dhabi - Dubai is a bit easier today? Is there a problem with the distributer in Dubai?
Cheers
Don
During my days in the Emirates (ok it was the Trucial States then), VV & Sons were the only hifi dealer in Abu Dhabi. Most people bought their stuff in Dubai (where the only hifi dealer was the other branch of VV & Sons.)
Isn't there a Naim distributer in Dubai? (Dubai Audio Centre?)
When I was based in Sharjah, I used to drive to Abu Dhabi to see various mates. It only took about 4 hours, and that was before there was a road.
Surely the journey Abu Dhabi - Dubai is a bit easier today? Is there a problem with the distributer in Dubai?
Cheers
Don
Posted on: 10 October 2007 by Duncan Fullerton
I loaded the some new software onto my nVi a couple of months ago and it hasn't missed a beat since then. I use it daily and it's powered up 24x7. It's now totally unflappable.
Just one request for a "feature" enhancement .... can the software be modded to reset the vol to (say) 20 when switching inputs please? My speakers may last longer that way ...
Duncan
Just one request for a "feature" enhancement .... can the software be modded to reset the vol to (say) 20 when switching inputs please? My speakers may last longer that way ...
Duncan
Posted on: 10 October 2007 by AV@naim
Posted on: 11 October 2007 by David Sutton
Thanks everyone.
There is Dubai Audio, only an hour and a half away from Abu Dhabi. I bought my CDX from them and later, an XPS. Sadly, they will not get in a car and come and install, check, tweak equipment they sell to Abu Dhabi. We have to load it in the car and take it to/from them. This is less than ideal and is the cause of my worry about a product such as n-Vi. If it is "delicate" then I do not want to lug it up and down the highway for changing the settings. Similarly, I do not want to have to send my wife on an IT course to swap over from satellite to DVD inputs on the n-Vi, when I am away travelling on business.
It is a reflection on this state of affairs that prompted me to buy the 555 and 552 from Grahams in London. I guess you can figure out what I have not said.
Great to learn that you were here in the old days Don. I have been here since 1984 and there have been plenty of changes over that period, with many more on the way.
David
There is Dubai Audio, only an hour and a half away from Abu Dhabi. I bought my CDX from them and later, an XPS. Sadly, they will not get in a car and come and install, check, tweak equipment they sell to Abu Dhabi. We have to load it in the car and take it to/from them. This is less than ideal and is the cause of my worry about a product such as n-Vi. If it is "delicate" then I do not want to lug it up and down the highway for changing the settings. Similarly, I do not want to have to send my wife on an IT course to swap over from satellite to DVD inputs on the n-Vi, when I am away travelling on business.
It is a reflection on this state of affairs that prompted me to buy the 555 and 552 from Grahams in London. I guess you can figure out what I have not said.
Great to learn that you were here in the old days Don. I have been here since 1984 and there have been plenty of changes over that period, with many more on the way.
David
Posted on: 12 October 2007 by nap-ster
I don't see why Naim couldn't bring out a N-vi without the DVD playing facility. Something like a Supernait for AV use?