Headphone Socket

At the cost of e.g. a Rega Ear, I would give it a try, before giving the NAC/NAP the heave-ho, unless moving away from separates is an end in itself.

Or do you mean to swap just the NAC, and run the SN2 through the FC and NAP?  Interesting idea.  I am curious with you as to the results!

Nick

Hi Nick, 

im looking to reduce my box count so do away with the nac/nap and flat cap and replace with an integrated amp with headphone socket, I would keep the cd5xs

regards

stimmy

Stimmy, it has to well worth a dem.  I can't tell you how things will differ but you may find the Supernait 2 is just the ticket - you'll need to listen for yourself though. Also consider going CDX2 as source.  A very nice two box system...

Cheers Richard

Stimmy,

Fair enough.  Based on testimonials I have seen here, it is encouraging to note about equal voting for the SN2 with and without HC2DR.  

One thing I have learned is Naim makes good stuff with every effort.  And, I have learned that on-board headphone amps vary — some are exceedingly good, and others are surprisingly foul.  And reviews sometimes lie.  

I would bet the one inthe SN2 is great; but I would verify.

Generalities all, of course.  But I used to be one of those who would ask, “How much difference could there be, really?”  Turns out, “A lot!”

Keep us posted.  Your findings are appreciated.

Nick

Stimmy,

I see several plausible options for you here which in part depend on how much you value box count reduction.

1) alter your current system using the FCXS to power both the 152 and CD5XS. Eliminate the FC and add a self-powered (non-Naim) HP amp of your choice. Same box count.

2) keep your existing system and use one of your Flatcaps to power an added Naim Headline. The Headline is excellent powered by a Flatcap or FCXS and will readily drive most headphones. One added box.

3) Move to the SN2, keep the FCXS on the CD5XS. Do not consider a Flatcap (or FCXS) as a viable PSU for the SN2. Two fewer boxes with HP listening added, but be advised, my experience with the SN2 led me to conclude the internal HP amp is a far cry from a Headline powered with a FCXS. The single advantage of the SN2's HP amp is that you can control the volume via remote. The Headline volume must be manually controlled, so needs to be positioned at arm's length.

Box count aside, it also depends on how much HP listening you anticipate and how much money you have to spend. There's also the option to consider a Nait XS2 for less cost. Same built-in HP amp as the SN2.

For speaker listening the SN2 is commanding, fast, and exacting, while also very exposing of the quality source material. Some here would argue the CD5XS is better balanced by the Nait XS. Having lived with the original Nait XS and SN2, each for several years with a CD5X, I'd say the SN2 is clearly superior for amplification and all things hi-fi. On the other hand, for pure musicality and involvement of varying musical sources, the Nait XS2 should not be overlooked.

You've got some choices ahead. Hope this helps more than it confounds

Wow guys, thanks for the in-depth replies, a great in-sight and much appreciated

regards

Darren