CD5XS?

Posted by: Gordon M on 16 May 2016

Hi all, this is my first post as I'm new to the forum despite owning Naim equipment for the last 16 years.  I'm looking for advice which would be greatly appreciated.  My old CD Marantz CD player has died and I'm looking for a replacement.  I currently have a Naim 102/!80 and NAPSC which I purchased 16 years ago.  I'm think of demoing the CD5XS but was wondering if this is suitable for my set up and whether I should get some additional power supplies to upgared the amps and CD player if I go down the Naim route.  I have already heard the Rega Saturn which although it sounded OK was not dynamic or punchy enough enough for my taste.

Many Thanks 

Posted on: 16 May 2016 by PaulH

CD5XS is certainly a great player - and it really opens up with a Flatcap XS.

Some don't like what the Flatcap does to it (each to their own) so I would recommend listening both with and without.

Personally, after I heard mine with, the Flatcap was never going back to the shop....

Posted on: 16 May 2016 by Frenchnaim

CD5XS and FlatcapXS, a great combination, but you don't have to get the FC.

Posted on: 16 May 2016 by Hal

You may also like to check CD5si that is surely punchy and dynamic.

Posted on: 16 May 2016 by matt podniesinski

The demo makes sense.  I think you will find the 5xs to be a fine player which certainly doesn't lack dynamics. 

Posted on: 16 May 2016 by The Strat (Fender)

Superb player - go for it.

Posted on: 16 May 2016 by Gus Hunnybun

Hi , if it is any help , my mate had 2k to blow on a new cd and asked me to go with him. We heard the Roksan, Rega ( his pre demo choice), Cyrus and 5xs. The 5xs won hands down. The track "Walk on the wild side" sticks out in my memory, the separation of the two bass guitars was very pronounced and the positioning of the six string was exact (oh and the female vocals sent shivers down your back). He bought it and is still raving about it to any one who questions the value of a 2k CD player .... Any help?

 

Posted on: 16 May 2016 by hungryhalibut

A CDS2/XPS would be perfect if you can find one. I'd suggest you get a serviced olive Hicap for your 102; you'll be amazed by the improvement.

Posted on: 16 May 2016 by Salmon Dave

I've had the CD5XS for about 4 years now - it replaced a slightly problematic CDX2. Have used with and without a FCXS and using and not using its digital output - recently into an ND5XS/PSU.

Am now trying - successfully - another manufacturer's PSU on the CD5XS which presumably I'm not allowed to mention. 

Posted on: 17 May 2016 by ian collinson

Hi again I've had my cd player 3 years or so and have experimented with cables and supports etc not all positive i must say, does anyone have a preferred choice of what power leads they use, mine Russ Andrews    thanks Ian

Posted on: 17 May 2016 by Salmon Dave

The Naim supplied ones.