Nait XS vs NAC 122x preamplifier with NAP 150x amplifier

I rather like my XS2, and from reading here I am under the impression the XS2 is a significant step up from the XS. However, I have to admit that I have been thinking about an SN2... Maybe saving up a bit longer for a pre-loved SN2?

Naim 122x/150x are a very repectable combo!

That´s how I´ve started with Naim and somehow, even I with increased quality on my recent upgrades, I can assume that I could live happly with that combo it plays music !

To take the best out of it a flatcap is a must.

Do you think the 122x/150x is an upgrade from the 5i-2? I ask because I'm interested in the upgrade path via a separates route. That is, I assume the XS would be an upgrade from the 5i-2, but any upgrade from the XS would be either a Supernait or an external pream or amp. In the latter case I'd be left with the unused portion of the XS. Maybe that shouldn't be a significant concern but it's something I've considered. I do like the single box but separates aren't out of the question. So, I'm wondering about the 122x/150x vs the 5i-2. They're offered together from a reputable dealer. 

Hi,

Cannot talk on the 5i-2  but comparing with an 5si from a friend of mine  I prefered the 122x/150X combo.

I even tested the 122x with supercap and 250 ( both olive ) and I was impressed with the capabilities of the 122x.

But you have to try it by yourself and check if it suits you, and the way you like your music to be presented.

Has I told you before the 122x/150X is a very respectable combo, you should try.

I´ve used mainly with Neat motive 1, Sonus faber Grand Piano and Proac D18, good with the UK speakers, less good with Sonus faber Grand Piano.

Never tested the XS, so cannot talk on this one.

BR

RM

FWIW - I have the XS 2 and have used it to drive a pair of ProAc Response D2's and currently a pair of Ovator S-400's and I am quite happy. So the XS 2 be able to satisfy your need to support an upgrade in speakers.

i can not comment on 122/150 combination.

Good luck with your decision.

As much as I love - I still have them - the 122x/150x, one of, if not the greatest entry level combo produced by Salisbury, I would recommend to go straight to 202/200 and skip a step or two on the upgrade ladder for higher VFM in the long run.  

Chag -

John, Both options are good ones for you. In the context of the introduction of the Nait XS to the Naim range, it contained Naim's latest thinking at that time and was very well received. It came out in 2009 where the NAC122x and NAP150x were earlier.

Imo, it would be wrong to consider the SuperNait as the next step beyond the Nait XS. First, some prefer the XS. Second, the XS's manual shows an upgrade path where it is combined with HC and NAP200. Yes, this creates the redundancy issue you mention but it also gives you an upgrade path that takes you to separates if you want it.

*Nait XS was 2008 according to product history*

For me, 122/150 are one one the most unterrated amps in the naim-range, they make music and fun, especially with flatcap! christoph

It seems like the XS and the 122x/150x may be comparable systems, maybe not identical but comparable in terms of upgrade over the 5i-2. I do like the fact that the XS has rca inputs for most if the din inputs whereas the 122x is limited to 2 rca inputs. I guess the question then is whether I should hold out for the XS2. 

If the lack of RCA inputs is an issue on the NAC122x, then NAC152XS is your pre. This gives you all the latest thinking plus the benefits of separate pre and power over an integrated.

A NAC152XS would have to be a used buy since it has been discontinued.

Can't comment on the XS2 as never heard one.