For reasons I won’t go into (yet) I’m currently looking at options to replace my Supernait 3. I am extremely disappointed to have reached this point and really love the match of a (fully functioning) SN3 with the NDX2.
I would prefer an integrated amp (and on that note, am further disappointed that no new integrated has been launched to replace the SN3), but could be convinced on pre+power if the value / price / fit was right. The only source would be my current NDX2.
I have demo’d the NC332 and 250 combination with my NDX2 at my local dealer’s demo room. It was with an NPX300 on the 332. The dealer couldn’t remove the 300 because the link plugs were off site. It was no doubt a fantastic system, played into the Focal Kanta 3 (I have Kanta 2s). The NDX2 showed pretty good synergy. The sound signature was certainly different to the SN3 and I’m not 100% sure it is what I’m looking for.
Also, with the 332 + 250, I’m concerned about the increased cost compared to an SN3 replacement, but also to get the best out of the 332, a 300 would “need” to be added (and even if the 300 is not a necessity, which I know it is not, the upgrade-itis factor/temptation does not initially sit well with me). Price-wise I could probably stretch to the 332+250.
So, in the absence of Naim introducing an SN4/5, I’m being forced to look elsewhere for an integrated. I’ve compiled a list of possibilities, and will be listening to the first two options shortly (hopefully at home). Advice and suggestions would be most welcome (even left-field options). Characteristics-wise, I’m looking for something pretty similar to the SN3…
1. Kinki Studio Dazzle
2. Gryphon Diablo 300 (ex-demo with 1 year warranty)
3. Aavik I-280
4. Accuphase E4000
5. Pass Labs INT25
6. Cyrus 40
7. Rega Aethos
8. Hifi Rose RA180
9. Anthem STR
10. Electrocompaniet ECI 6DX MKII
System summary: NDX2 - DIN (Witch Hat Morgana) - SN3 - Tchernov Classic speaker cables - Focal Kanta 2 (Furutech power cables).
I heard the 222 and while it was better than the 272 it replaced, it wasn’t a replacement for an NDX type streamer. So a 222/250 isn’t going to be an upgrade in all likelihood.
High end Denon amps are probably a level over above the SuperNaits though far below things like a Diablo. There is a certain leading edge bite on Denon amps that’s not entirely dissimilar to Naim. Luxman are often paired with Focal and are in fact the official partner in Japan in place of Naim. The very forward presentation of Focal and the very calm presentation of Luxman compliment each other quite well I’ve been told.
None of what’s on your list will sound like the outgoing Naim though. Do you really need a change?
But one simple question: what does your local dealer actually have available to demo? As with many things, you can build a long list but the options available withing the one or two dealers within driving distance usually makes your shortlist for you. And shorter and more manageable at that. If half of what is on your list is 8hrs away, then pondering some of those items becomes moot.
Reading between a few lines, that is disappointing. Is a used SN3 not an option? If you wouldn’t otherwise have been looking to replace it, and feel any upcoming SN? would be ideal, why not try and source a direct, used, replacement SN3 and wait? If you replace with one of the options you list, if/as/when the SN? turns up you’ll face another decision at that point. At least a used SN3 would not lose as much value by that point than a new replacement from your provided list.
Just a left field thought
Hope you find something you like as much as your SN3.
I’d not use the phrase “laid back” with Luxman. It’s not a boring sound. It’s “calm”.
I have a big Naim system and a small Luxman system and there is no similarities really but both are highly enjoyable. Luxman really lays the recording bare in a way the Naim doesn’t. It’s not an “in Technicolour" clinical bright sound but lays instruments out a bit like a popup book. Everything very neatly defined with air around it. Naim a bit more fluid and adrenaline pumped. The instruments more 3D even if their placement is less defined.
I figure there is no “correct” presentation and a person can like more than one.
If I was looking for a SN3 replacement at a similar level it would be the Heed Lagrange. Similar design philosophy with large transact power supply, very dynamic, and a proper volume control.
I’ve been on that journey and ended up with a Vitus RI-101. It’s very unlikely that I’d go back to Naim even if a SN 4/5 were to be forthcoming.
In my case (choosing to run with Dynaudios) it was a close run thing with T&A ( loved the big VU meters as well as the sound). I also listened to Krell but not for me, ditto the Rega. I like what 10 on your list do and if I were choosing again I’d give them a serious listen. Others I’ve heard and liked enough to think I might explore further are Plinius and Trilogy - I know nothing about availability in Thailand though. The top end Marantz might also warrant consideration.
Good luck, there are plenty of superb options to choose from.
You haven’t mentioned what problems you have with the SN3 but if it’s getting hot or you can hear a hiss from the speakers then you need to try a different speaker cable.
The speaker cable you mention is screened and so likely has a high capacitance which Naim amplifiers generally do not perform well with.
I did think about this but felt that going 222 would be a step back in the streaming dept. and I was justifying a higher outlay on separates on the basis the 332 would be an exceptional pre. Only one way to find out I suppose.
I moved from a 282/supercap/250 to chord ultima pre 3 and power 6. Whilst my new kit doesn’t meet your one box requirement, I would suggest the chord ultima integrated which is also excellent. Not sure of price and availability in Thailand though. Here in the UK they are circa £8500 new and about £6k used.
Currently I am using the chord amps with an NDX2/XPS front end which sounds very good, although when funds allow I want to check out other options just in case I am missing out on something!
Is your issue transformer hum? I have the exact same system (plus XPS DR) and I posted on the hum a few weeks ago. It is now resolved and I will do an update to my post shortly. You may not need to give up on SN3!
