Naim DAC-V1/unitiserve v HDXor NDSX5

Posted by: Cat_1965 on 02 February 2017

Trawled the forum and can't find the answer I'm looking for. I had a Unitiqute for streaming purposes, but being used as a source was a waste, purchased a DAC-V1 and built a computer/NAS and used this as a main streaming source and a storage device. Music seems fine using windows media player via usb/ jitterbug into dac, but still can't touch my CDS3, would the Unitiserve rip a better copy of CD and be a better proposition for streaming than a HDX?

Posted on: 02 February 2017 by Brilliant

Start with these easy tweaks (could be a long journey depending where your endpoint is)

If using a desktop - use the motherboard USB port. (an audio optimized PC would be best) Try different standard USB cables (like the Belkin Gold series). If you can, disconnect the +5V at the A connector of the cable or use an adapter that does this. Try the free trial version of J River MC 22 as the player or foobar2000 . Check DAC-V1 firmware- latest is v 1.16.

Posted on: 02 February 2017 by blythe

I replaced my CDS3 with an HDX and have not missed the CDS3.

Arguably, using DBPoweramp on a computer to rip your CD's at full, uncompressed quality will match the HDX, but then you need the suitable additional hardware for playing those files.

The HDX Is a great one-box solution for ripping, storage and playback and particularly when used with the XPS2 power supply, is extremely musical and engaging.

The Unitiserve, I believe, uses basically the same ripping technology as the HDX anyway, so those rips should be the same and "bit perfect".

Posted on: 03 February 2017 by 40 below

The new Uniti Core is a totally superior SPDIF source to the Unitiserve. Fed into a DAC/XPSDR it is very impressive. If you want a 'better source' than a PC, this may be a better way to go.

Posted on: 03 February 2017 by Chag...

Hi 40 B; Have also compared UC SPDIF connection SQ to US RJ45 streaming's? I would be curious to know the references of the ferrites you use.

Chag -

Posted on: 05 February 2017 by Adam Zielinski

There are some streamers which will approach CDS3 - NDS with 555PS (alternatively an NDX + NDAC powered by at least an XPS).

Your network will also have to be optimised for streaming, with minimal levels of interference and a good UPnP server software.

Posted on: 05 February 2017 by Adam Zielinski

As to quality of rips: UnitiServe and HDX use the same technology. Core is also fine.