cdx/xps2 vs cds2/xps ?
Posted by: beefster on 13 June 2003
Howdy.
I get the impression that much of recent naim source improvements have been derived from new xps2 power supply and its new improved Burndy.
Im presently using a cdx/xps combo and it is just fabulous.There is no great need to upgrade right now but im thinking ahead.My next future move had been the sale of my cdx and purchase of a 2nd hand cds2 head unit.Since the arrival of the new gear I now have another very interesting option.A new xps2 and super burndy with my old cdx.Could this 2nd combo be nearly as good as cds2/xps or dare I say it the equal.I would have to be cautious though as sound from present combo is much liked. It has a vivacity , presence ,and drive that I would hate to lose.
Has anybody done any comparisons like this recently ? My present system is source as stated above , with 5pin to 2 phono chord solid 2 interconnect. Chord cpa 2200 pre ,chord 1200c power, Wilson Benesch Arc's and storm 3 subwoofer.
Cheers , Mark.
Posted on: 13 June 2003 by MichaelC
Unfortunately I do not know the answer to this but would like to know myself. Come on guys - are there any views on this?
Mike
Posted on: 13 June 2003 by David Ng
Beefster,
Getthe CDS2. Its a different monster from the CDX. I recently upgraded from CDX to CDS2, its a leap. With the XPS2, it will probably be a marginal improvement.
david
Posted on: 14 June 2003 by Tuan
The XPS2 is significantly better than the previous model. It is a MUST upgrade for the CDS2/XPS combo. The CDX2 is inferior to the CDS2. We have done the comparisons between the CDX2 and the CDS2. The CDX2/XPS2 is a very special combo, some people may like its tonal presentation more than that of CDS2 but in my own opinion, the CDS2/XPS wins (more natural sounding). WE did the above comparisons in Toronto around 2-3 months ago.
[This message was edited by Tuan on SATURDAY 14 June 2003 at 11:19.]
Posted on: 15 June 2003 by Jellyheadjeff
I have upgraded my XPS -> XPS2 recently & also went for a super burndy with currently a CDX head unit (I was one of those smucks who bought the XPS2 before it came with the Super Burndy as standard).
In my view the improvement the XPS2 made was massive (the super burndy noticable but nothing like the difference between the power supplies).
This weekend I've had a CDS3 head unit on loan - it's very good but also very expensive. I would say that any existing XPS owner ought to consider upgrading to an XPS2 regardless whether they are thinking of changing their head unit - based on the performance improvement it's a fairly cost effective upgrade. Upgrading the head unit is expensive even second hand.
Jeff
Posted on: 15 June 2003 by Emil F
Jeff
What's the difference in the design of the Super Burndy?
Emil
Posted on: 16 June 2003 by Jellyheadjeff
Emil,
Not sure on the technical differences (it looks the same externally) - one for naim I guess.
In terms of sound differences it seems to widen the soundstage & have a bit more info.
Jeff
Posted on: 16 June 2003 by greeny
There's been talk (Mr Dane I think) that the connectors to the digital circuits have been better isolated/shielded from the audio supplys, not sure if there are any other changes.
Posted on: 16 June 2003 by Richard Dane
Thanks Greeny,
I've been meaning to leave a comment all afternoon but, of course, it's never quite so simple on a Monday...
Basically the difference is down to construction, specifically while we were developing the CDS3 we found a way to lessen any chance of interference between the digital and analog supply cables within the XPS Burndy cable. Subjective testing certainly seems to bear this out.
Richard
Posted on: 19 July 2003 by beefster
Good day people.
Much Thanks for the comments.
One second hand cds2 head unit ( from a dealer- Audio excellence , Worcester) on its way. Late 1999 model , boxed , instructions ,mint condition , all leads , 3 month warranty.
£ 2500 . Ouch !
Considering I'll get £1250 min for my cdx this isnt to painful.Cant wait.
Regards , Mark.
Regards , Mark.
