I apologise if this is a silly question, but is a 555 PS able to run a NAC 282 as well as a NDX 2, at the same time?
The reason I ask, is that my system at the moment is a NAC 282, HiCap DR, NAPSC, 300DR.
As a temporary measure, I am using a RPi 4 with a HifiBerry DAC HD. However, I would like to purchase a NDX 2, but it would appear that to really make it shine, the addition of a PS would be most beneficial.
In an attempt to reduce the box count for my five shelf stack, is there a way to bin the HiCap DR and NAPSC, and just have a bigger, better PS? (555 PS)
There is only one real way to reduce box count in your Naim classic system and that is to leave Naim. I was left with the same dilemma due to (cannot comment at this time), so decided to look in a different direction. I know you could reduce to a Supernait 3, but when you add a NDX2 and power supply, plus power supplies for the Supernait - how many boxes? I wish you well in your search, but maybe a different strategy is needed.
As @NoNaim mentioned previously, the only way to reduce box count while keeping a certain level of sound quality is to leave Naim Audio for a different brand.
Naim is all about decoupling and placing the power supply in a different box.
Source : 2-3 boxes
Preamp : 2 boxes
Power Amp : 1-2 boxes
So, in the Classic or 500 ranges, you’ll end up with 5 to 7 boxes minimum.
Other brands offer equivalent, or better sound quality, in 2 a boxes setup. But at a cost…
I think @Thomas is absolutely correct in his assertion. If you are happy with the Naim sound, then living with the extra boxes, as you say, is a trade off. However, there are people on here who would say they could get a superior system, with less boxes and less money.
If possible, I’d take a bit more time and consider other options rather than rushing into buying an NDX2/555PS. You had the Bartok so were heading in a different direction front end wise so possibly a return to a Naim might not provide what you need.
I suppose the question is, where do you want to end up, particularly as you also seem concerned over the number of boxes you need to accommodate too ?
You do have a good point James. Like Naim streamers perform better with a separate PS, I’m told by many, that the Bartók performs better with their external ‘Clock’. Trouble is, that takes it to just over £18,000.
Hi DJM,
I found the £5.5k external DCS clock to make little difference to a Bartok when I tried it at a dealer, so there’s some funds you may be able to keep. To stay within Naim, perhaps exploit the potential of Naim half width boxes, so a great condition, factory serviced NAC72 with a HicapDR to save a shelf?
Naim is so missing a trick by not having more half width boxes.
You are far from the only person seeking to simplify. We are too, from a 4 box amplifier.
At least the amp is not as nuts as our 8 box streamer. Bonkers!
I did think about a SN3 and a PS, but I’m told that as lovely as the SN3 is, it’s not a match for 282/300DR.
…It may be the case of a taller, six shelf stack, or two smaller stacks. But, the latter will take up precious room space.
