Why isn't there a 240 degree 5 pin DIN Hi-Line?

Posted by: vintageaxeman on 08 August 2018

My Superline is fed by a high quality phono lead from my LP12.

The Superline feeds the signal within the same SNAIC (5 pin 240 degree DIN to 5 pin 240 degree DIN) cable that is used as a DC power cable from my HiCapDR.

I then use a Hi-Line from the HiCapDR to my preamp.

My question is, WHY is there a difference in standards.Apparently there is no Naim option for the SNAIC.

This is a very 'plain jane' lead in the middle section, carrying the signal and DC power between the Superline and the HiCap.

It is my view that the signal is degraded at this point, due to the lower quality of cable and plugs. Surely it is the weakest link?

If not, why am I wasting money on Hi-Lines etc elsewhere in the system?

Posted on: 08 August 2018 by Richard Dane

SNAIC is good quality cable and very specifically designed for purpose.  Remember it also carries DC power.  Hi-Line cable is totally unsuitable for this application.

Posted on: 08 August 2018 by vintageaxeman

Thanks, Richard. But surely a SNAIC isn't equal quality to a Hi-Line?  And therefore,if a Hi-Line is used between the HiCap and the preamp, the quality of the signal cable within the SNAIC becomes something of a limiting factor, doesn't it?

Posted on: 09 August 2018 by Richard Dane

You can't compare because they're two different things.  Do you think the quality of the signal cable inside the equipment is limiting? It's kind of the same thing. The SNAIC is designed to be an ideal connection between the power supply and whatever it's powering. If Naim think it can be significantly improved upon then they will do it.  But until then... Beyond that, this thread is in danger of moving outside of the forum AUP...

Posted on: 09 August 2018 by vintageaxeman

OK Richard, thank you for your answer. I'll leave it there, as I don't wish to get into difficulties with forum admins. Cheers.