Nait 5si

Have a look at this archived post

https://forums.naimaudio.com/to...chrome-bumper-nait-2

Hi Kevin - welcome to the forum!

The Nait 5si amp is a great little box, although it does still only have four inputs like your Nait 2 CB. It also doesn't have a dedicated phono stage, although this is pretty easily remedied by adding a Rega Fono Mini A2D (or similar). If you're looking for more inputs and a big step forward, I'd be tempted to suggest the Nait XS2, which gives you a lot more inputs and a more refined pre/power stage. It also has a powered output for a Naim Stageline if you want to keep a Naim phono stage (if you use vinyl of course). Not sure where you are in the world but your friendly local dealer should be able to give you a demo

If you are going to change amp Kevin I would look at the XS before the XS2 it's an absolute cracker. It's great value second hand and can be  easily upgraded with a Flatcap 2x - again great value on the second hand market.

I've owned both XS and XS 2 and pound for pound ( in my view) the XS is hard to beat.

Good luck.

Usually – my opinion only – version 2 of anything is either made to correct flaws or to meet a wider audience's taste. If one really needs a 13 watt amp to feel he's part of Naim's glorious past, there's the Nait. If one needs a car for real, extended journeys there are a number of modern, powerful solution with updated components. This si why I still prefer Supernait1, Nait XS, sometimes even non-DR PSUs.

M.

Kevin w r posted:

joined forum because I enjoy reading the many posts and I want to complement every body on such a good well mannered forum and good opinions. I do have a question I have a nait 2 cb I do like it but 2 things I look with envy at amps with a remote control and the constant fiddling with volume and balance and limited inputs , so I ask if the nait 5si is a better amp

Different is the right word

Kevin w r posted:

joined forum because I enjoy reading the many posts and I want to complement every body on such a good well mannered forum and good opinions. I do have a question I have a nait 2 cb I do like it but 2 things I look with envy at amps with a remote control and the constant fiddling with volume and balance and limited inputs , so I ask if the nait 5si is a better amp

I'm sure more people are looking envy on Nait 2 CB owners

In my opinion it depends on a few things.

If you are happy with the sound of your Nait 2 CB and it makes the Loudspeakers sing in your room and fill it with enjoyable sound, I would not change it. It is hard to beat.

Many people use the Naits or old 62/72/140 etc combo's with Turntables which have a smaller amplitude in soundlevel and you have to walk to the TT anyhow to change sides. So it is getting out of the chair anyhow.

Then, I use my 72/140 combination with a Raspberry Pi based streamer which supports digital volume control. So I can adjust the volume level using my phone.

The Nait 2 has a limited set of inputs, but the most entry level Naits have that as well. I have an old Nait 5 which has many inputs contrary to later entry level Naits, but that amp is not an upgrade over the Nait 2 sonically.

What I would consider is replacing the Nait 2 by a Nac 32.5 / Nap something combination. If they are serviced, it is a step up from the Nait 2 (sorry to the Nait 2 owners here), has more inputs and more power. No RC though. If you do well, you can do this change without much extra money.

Kevin, Nait 5si does not have a balance control but it has remote control.  So it has half of your requirements. I admit to only having heard the Nait 5i (similar to but earlier than the 5si). But I think it would be a fair summing up to say that the 5si seems to me to be the latter-day spiritual successor to the Nait 2 in terms of joie de vivre.

Let your ears decide and please tell us what you go for.

Greetings Kevin,

I’d suggest taking advantage of the excellent Naim dealer Network - assuming you have one close enough to home to make it a practical propositon. 

There; you would be able to compare your ‘2’ to the new kids on the block (on your own loudspeakers if necessary) and make an informed decision. It could save you money in the long run.

Good luck. 

John. 

Thank you for all your replies, general consensus is it would have to be a for xs2 . I know how good it is Especially after I had it serviced I am now retired and can listen more.this all started when I thought about getting the turntable serviced  and new cartridge ( linn axis k18) or a knew turntable possibly rega rp6/ Ania which would mean sut / headlamp or a phono stage which I would loose an input with a phono stage, all inputs are taken .turntable.cd radio headphone amp and also like to add a dac at some time . I have though of switching box or passive preamp, the other problem if I play a record volume about 9 o’clock balance 12 o’clock if then play cd volume 8 o’clock balance 3 o’clock it’s lots of fiddling .i will be going to a dealer at some point ( live in Colchester ) this will be my retirement present

You are well placed Kevin, for a a visit to my excellent Naim dealer 'Signals' at Trimley St Mary.

Good luck.

John.

I also live in a Colchester and the Signals crew are a really special dealership who know their Hifi and your......music and can really guide you.

I know that’s where I intend going to thank you