172 or ND5xs or HDX?.

Bob the Builder posted:

I had an ND5 XS with a 202/200 HiCap/Napsc and have just upgraded my 202 to a 282, If I where you I would do the same and upgrade your pre amp which would give the CD and Vinyl sources you already have a MUCH larger boost than the preamp section of the 272 could give. As you are new to streaming perhaps you should try a cheaper streaming solution before you take the plunge with the expense of a dedicated Naim streamer, later if you still like the idea of streaming then you can choose a Naim streamer. Personally I'm still of the opinion although I do realise it's becoming less fashionable that separating the preamp section from any Source is always best and if box count is not a problem then 282/NDX or even a 282/ND5XS is better than a 272.

I did this option whilst it gave me the insight into streaming it wasn't till I changed to a NDX that I found out how good streaming can sound.

My system at the time was a CD!, 82, Supercap and 250 after I had the NDX the CDI was very rarely used all music streamed.  

Pieman. posted:

I have limited knowledge on the subject of streaming  as i have  been a CD and vinyl user to date.

 

Given this, you might want to consider the HDX - a relatively uncomplicated entry into streaming that will grow with you as you learn more.