Naim prefix

Pete, does the WT Versalex arm use an SME type DIN connector?  If so, then the Prefix can be used - I don't know whether there's space to affix it underneath though.  If not then you would have to have fitted to the Prefix whichever compatible connector the WT uses. It would be down to you or your WT dealer to do this.

Many thanks Richard for clarifying things. I'm tempted to buy some new phono cards just to streamline things, but will discuss your suggestion with the WT dealer.....who is also a Naim dealer anyway. The sale of the Prefix will easily cover the cost of the cards.

Pete

I have been using a Prefix with an SME Model 20 for many years, and the Prefix just rests between the plinths. I affixed three of those small, clear rubber dots on the bottom of the Prefix just to act as a bit of cushioning.  If I recall correctly at the time the lead from the arm to the Prefix was extended a bit to allow the Prefix to sit properly (or else it would have dangled and not sat flat). I assume the lead for a standard LP 12 fitting is pretty short.

My dealer or Naim made the lead adjustment - we are talking 20 years ago. Of course the key is to not extend the lead too much as it would negate the whole design point of the Prefix.

But in a nutshell - yes, they can work well in decks other than LP12s. 

Many thanks SAMS for the info regarding the location of the Prefix. Extending the cable from the arm to the Prefix is necessary. But as you say, the Prefix doesn't necessarily have to sit inside a plinth.

Are phono cards fitted in the NAC52 a worthwhile option or are they a backward step? I'm pretty certain my 52 isn't currently fitted with any, so would have to buy them at circa £135? (Thereby leaving me to option of selling the Prefix).

Pete

Even though the internal MC phono cards have near identical topology to the Prefix, there are a few small differences, and the difference makes the difference. I found the internal cards to be quite listless with the -S version being particularly so. There is also a slight, but noticeable performance hit on other inputs by having the MC cards in place-although with well under 50mA current draw, I cannot see why this should be the case-but yet it is. 

The Prefix for some reason sounds quite a bit better than the internal phono cards-possibly because the very low-level signal paths are kept much shorter in the Prefix. 

The 52-powered Prefix (and indeed even a 552 powered Prefix) is no match IME for powering the Prefix with even a dedicated Hicap. A Supercap on the Prefix transforms it into a powerhouse, that is totally unrecognizable compared to powering it with any lesser feed. The extra verve and grunt that a Supercap imparts has got to be heard to be believed. 

But the cost of the extra Hicap, or especially a Supercap would take you into the price range of another external phono stage, which should be at least strongly considered. Dealer input may be essential in making this decision. 

But don't take the easy way out and get internal phono cards in the 52. 

Many thanks for your views Ron. Your post certainly helps me with one of the key decisions I need to make as I move from my LP12 (have used an LP12 for nearly 30 years) to the WT Versalex.

I note your comments regarding the impact on the performance of my 52 also, and it is likely to influence my thinking and decision on the way forward.

i was tempted by the Rega, and also the Dynavector P75, and I am likely to head that way and benefit from the obvious synergy between the cart and phono stage. The added benefit will be a better performing 52.

Pete