ND5XS possible upgrades
Posted by: Nic Chan on 10 February 2016
I understand that a cap can be introduce to the system for upgrades however can I connect my ND5XS digital out to Naim DAC or DAC-V1 to take advantage of an individual DAC for better SQ? Is it meant to be used this way? If it does will I get a significant increase in SQ? And adding a XPS to the Naim DAC in the future will I get even better SQ?
Newbie to Naim and just thinking about future possible upgrades.
Yes you can do that. The Dac V1 would be a bit pointless over the analogue stage in the ND5XS but the Naim DAC could be a good upgrade. Don't forget something like the Chord Hugo too, again driven by the ND5XS could be preferable to the Naim DAC.
What's the issue with your present setup that is pushing you to upgrade ?
I'm just trying to sort out the blueprints of the possible upgrades to my system. I love the current sound but would like to have a tighter bass and more defined sound with more PRaT.
seems the issue would' t be with your units which should have PRAT in spades.
Where do you have your equipment sited?
Ah i see - lots you can do -depends on how much you want to spend and how many boxes you want to end up with. As Antonio mentions, it is worth making sure your present system is working at its best. You've got a nice set up there which should give you a lot of enjoyment without a pressing need to upgrade already. Did you listen to a number of different options before deciding on your present system ?
Yeah I love my current system. I learned the hard way tho! Spend the money on the LS 50 ( which I love the design and sound). Didn't care about or know anything amps just tot anything would work so I went for the Cambridge CXA80 and CXN streamers at first but didn't end up with the sound that I like... Then I began to research and found great NAIM reviews online, demo them a the dealer and love the way of how NAIM upgrades works (add a box if you want something more)! That's how I started. And I'm truly in love with this brand and their philosophy!
I love my currently setup but do feel there are areas of improvements can be done. That's why I'm planning my upgrade path. Fraimlites will arrive next week and I'm really looking forward to see what it can do besides if looking neat and cool.
Nic ... STOP ... just STOP.
From what I have read of your posts in December you bought KEF speakers and Cambridge Audio electronics. You quickly replaced the Cambridge Audio with Naim XS and ND5XS.
So for the sake of your wallet ... just stop for a while.
Unless you absolutely hate listening to your music, then give it some time to settle down and for you to settle down.
Don't buy anything for at least 3 months (IMO) ... in fact stop reading this website and all other audio related websites for 3 months.
Listen to music, get used to your ND5XS / Nait XS and just ENJOY it.
Eloise
Great advice stop becoming addicted before you Know what dope it is about
Thanks! I won't be getting anything in a few months. Just trying to figure out what can be done in the future. =)
Eloise - I suggested in another thread that he stop for six months!!
Nic, the units are still on the floor for goodness sake. Just get the stand, set it up properly and enjoy it. All the time you are thinking of upgrades, you cannot enjoy your music.
All very good advice! This website in particular can send you into a spiral of upgrades (I know from experience!)
Halibut: I take your advise very seriously. Just waiting for the friamlite to arrive and I'll stop getting anything else for a good 6 months!
Excellent! Now I can sleep soundly in my bed.