First step!

A pre I would have thought, and not just because MF gear is not really in accord the presentation of Naim kit.

IS the power amp a NAP140, or do MF do a 140 as well? If the former, I believe that are you not supposed to use Naim power amps with other preamps - something to do with the width of the signal?

Ben

The amp is an MF 140. Although the MF amps seem to work exceptionally well with the CD5, during a shop demo I replaced the MF amps with a Nait 5 and thought the sound became clearer....more defined and perhaps better balanced, but definately lighter in the bass area. This sounded better with the LS35as' as it took away the "hump". Unfortunately I have not been able to listen to a Flatcap 2 yet and so this is the reason for my original post.

Well done, I bet you're saving for a flatcap 2 for your CD5!

An interesting combination of kit you have.

Andrew

Andrew Randle
2B || !2B;
4 ^ = ?;

"Light bass" done well and accurately is better than "heavy" bass done badly and inaccurrately. Do you want accurate musical reproduction or hi-fi pyrotechnics?
Personally, I prefer an honest reproduction of the lower frequencies than something overblown and unfaithful to the musical instruments that are meant to reproduce those low notes. Speed and attack are more fulfilling than sheer weight. Extension low down is not the same as gravitas, which is pleasant only when matched by control.

"LS35A on a Naim amp"

When I auditioned the CD5 using my MF amps and a Nait5, (not together) the LS35A speakers sounded superb. The guy in the shop swopped my speakers twice for ......I think they were JM Labs or something...French I think. He raved about the JMs' but after listening to two pairs (£300 and £600) even he had to admit neither could beat the old LS35As' for musical pleasure. They sounded great with both amps, but better with the Nait. LS35As' are famous for a "bass hump" in the lower middle frequencies which tries to give the impression they produce bass. I have lived with because of the musicality of the overall sound from these little gems. When I listened with the Nait 5, this hump was much less apparent and the sound was much improved . Which brings me back to my original question. I intend to change the MF amps for a Nait5 in the future, but, for now, would I be better going straight for the Nait or would a Flatcap for my CD5 be a better upgrade?
Regards
Phil

Phil,

The Flatcap has two supplies, one of higher current capability than the other. In the context of a CD5 plus a 112 or Nait 5 it is recommended to use the better output on the 112 or the Nait. I'm in an opposite predicament to you, I have the nait 5, and I'm saving for a Naim CD player. I have enough money for the FlatCap 2 at the moment, and I'll be getting a Stageline this weekend.

So what do I do ? Wait for the CD player then get the FC2 or get the FC2 and use it with the Nait and the Stageline and put off the CD player some more months.

Ah such are the decisions of the troubled naimophil

Peter

Get the CD5.
Steve.
PS:I have sent you an email.

I have not done the dems but have you thought of buying 2nd hand - A 32.5 pre/110 power combo would only cost you about £250 if you haggle - you could then buy a new Flatcap and have the lot for less than a new Nait5. Or you could buy a 2nd hand Hi-Cap for less than the new Flatcap. Or you could go for 32.5/NAP140 and still have some change from new Nait5. Hi-Caps sure help this kind of Naim kit - CDs and Amps. Just a few Naim ideas.

I agree with you Alex.
According to me , the best option is ti buy a used hicap (450£) .

Charles

Yes... I think you are right. I will look at second hand gear. Loot seems to offer a fair selection...has anybody had any good/bad experiences purchasing through Loot on the internet?
My CD5 is now 2 weeks old and has warmed up nicely. The sound has matured, filled out and has really got my feet tapping. Cant wait for the next upgrade, whether its amp or power supply.
For anybody considering a CD player I can thoroughly recommend the CD5.
Regards

Phil S.

Am I right in thinking this is some sort of stand for the equipment?
From what you and other in the Forum say, it must be good and I am sure it works very well but I have had to reach a compromise with the wife. I can accumulate Naim gear as and when funds permit, but it must be stored out of site in a custom made unit (antique pine coloured).
I am sure you will agree it is better to hide and have Naim than expose some lesser gear!!
Is this Mana stuff the shelves that wobble about??

Regards

Phil S