My current system:
(1) CDX2 >Hiline & (2) UnitiServe >Chord Prodac BNC >DAC-V1 >Chord Chorus RCA >NAC202 /NAPSC2 /Hicap2 > NAP200 >NACA5 >Spendor SP2/3R2.
My questions is:
1) From UnitiServe to DAC-V1, which connection is better, via BNC or via Toslink, providing interconnect cables are same quality?
2) Since DAC-V1 is also a preamplifier, is the signal from DAC-V1 via RCA "pre-amplified" before going to NAC202? If yes, how to bypass double-amplification?
3) DAC-V1 has 4-pin DIN output to connect to other power amplifier (e.g. NAP100). My NAP200 is already connected with NAC202 using 4-pin DIN input. Can I connect DAC-V1 to NAC202 using 4 to 5-pin DIN and is that better than current connection using RCA?
Looking forward to any advice.
LONG
Posted on: 14 April 2016 by hungryhalibut
1. Not sure, you'll have to try it and decide which you prefer. As you have a BNC lead I'd stick with that and not worry about it.
2. Set the V1 to fixed volume, which is how you should use it with a downstream preamp.
3. According to the manual, din connections will work better.
Posted on: 14 April 2016 by Long Nguyen
Thanks Hungry Halibut
1) I don't have good Toslink cable yet. Shall take your advice to compare then update.
2) Noted. I just worry that double-amplification may change the sound. I once tried to rip 1 CD by UnitiServe and replayed digitally via V1 to compare with original CD played by my CDX2. I found the one ripped by US is a bit less musicality than CD. I don't know if it because CDX2 using hiline compare to V1 using Chord chorus.
3) I don't know if 4-to-5 pin SNAIC is workalble or not. V1's 4-din socket is supposed to connect to NAP, now is to connect to NAC. Please advise further.
LONG
Posted on: 14 April 2016 by robert_h
Ref 2. I have heard contrary opinion, suggesting that for example dac v1 into nait xs, to use the fixed a/v input on the xs and variable volume on the 'v1.
Posted on: 14 April 2016 by hungryhalibut
Long, you just need to read the V1 manual. It clearly says that din is preferred. You just set the V1's volume to the fixed option.
The Serve works better playing over upnp rather than via a direct connection. Having the V1 gives a lot of redundancy, and I can't help thinking that swapping the V1 for an NDX, or perhaps swapping the V1, 202 and Hicap for a 272 might be an easier way to go.
Posted on: 14 April 2016 by Jude2012
Chord should be able to swap the RCA connectors to DINs.
However, before pursuing this, as HH suggests, trying a 272 (its pre-amp will be better than both the 202 and V1) is worthwhile. Also, try using the V1 directly into the 200 (the SNAIC that came with the 200 should work).
A NAS in place of the UServe would work for using either the NDX or 272. You'll need a computer with a direct USB connection to get the best from the V1 (rather than SPDIF from the Userve in your case).
Jude
Posted on: 14 April 2016 by Long Nguyen
I have my 202/200 for some time, NAPSC and HC were updated along the way. I planned to have HDX but by change I got V1 with a very pleasant offer then I take UServe.
Frankly speaking, I yet think of N272 but maybe now it's time for me to update the system. Thanks for your advise.
Jude: Yes, V1 can connect to 200 but I have to disconnect 202, that's why I ask if V1 can connect to 202 by 4-to-5. My V1 is now also serve TV & HD Player.
Posted on: 15 April 2016 by Jude2012
Hi Long,
If you haven't done it already, check out the Naim Connection Guide (under the 'manuals and downloads' in the section for the 202 on the Naim web site).
This will make it clear as to the number of pins and their configuration that are needed.
A Naim dealer is best placed to source you the correct DIN to DIN lead from Naim or a supplier like Chord. If you haven't got access to a dealer, then Naim Tech support will help.
Jude
