Naim Nait 5si vs Atom
Posted by: RaghuV on 05 June 2018
I have a pair of Harbeth 30.1s being driven by a Musical Fidelity v90 Dac and a Naim Nait 5si (rates at 60 watts). I use a Mac Mini with Audinirvana. Will a move to the Naim Atom (rated at 40 watts) be an upgrade? I have a medium size room and don’t play too loud. Will it be adequate?
I guess the obvious answer is to find a place to give an Atom a listen, preferably with Harbeths. It certainly would be a convenient one-box solution if you like it.
Another option might be to replace the v90 with a used NDAC to feed the 5si. The 5si is a fun amp, maybe just get some Naim in front of it.
The NAIT 5si is an excellent amp and going to an Atom, capable though it is, may possibly be a small step backwards (I don't know, as I haven't compared directly). In which case, if your happy with the Mac mini/Audirvana front end, I'd be looking at upping the performance of the DAC. You'll want a good quality USB or Firewire interface too as this can make a big difference.
Of course, it may be that you want to have everything in one small, but rather lovely box. The Atom is certainly that, and from what i've heard so far, it's very capable indeed. But the Harbeth 30.1 may need more than the Atom can give. Best way to find out is to try to get a demo of the Atom on your Harbeths.
Hardly believe Atom would be up to the job, both pair of speakers mentioned deserve a dedicated amp, something like XS or SN2, add a NDX or Linn streamer, much better sound
Hi, if the Musical Fidelity V90 DAC has the same sonic quality as the Musical Fidelity M1 DAC which I used to own, I would suggest that you consider replacing the DAC together with the amp. Either one can come first as I think the M30.1 demands more from the amp.
Re. DAC, in my system the Chord QBD76 replaces the Musical Fidelity M1. I am reluctant to say this but the Chord really makes the M1 sound broken. Music just came to life with the QBD76 whereas it sounded flat and lifeless without soul with the Musical Fidelity. I may sound like I'm exaggerating but I'm not. The difference in sound quality between the two DACs is really that huge. The V90 may not sound like the M1 but if they are cut from the same cloth, I would seriously suggest that you look at replacing the DAC.