A little bit of a rambling update as to how the Node is fitting into the system - apologies for the indulgence.
Overall result? In a nutshell for those not wanting to wade through the post, very well indeed!
An itch to scratch.… Even though I was somewhat hellbent on buying a NDX2 /Supernait2 or ND5XS2 / NDAC / Supernait2, I’ve always been curious about a full Rega system. For the simple reason that every time heard, those systems always seem to add up to more than the sum of the parts - more so than other ‘one make’ rigs.
While the builders were at work, I put together a modest 1K (came in at £1015) pre-loved system based around Rega and Bluesound, consisting of a Bluesound Node N130, Rega DAC-R, Rega Brio-R and Rega RS3 speakers. The last link in the chain will be some Rega Duet speaker cable (yet to acquire). If it doesn’t work out I can sell on with minimal loss.
Positives…
Bluesound Node N130 - Really like the sensors and presets on the top plate, a lovely feature which I use a lot more than I thought I would. Excellent, intuitive software. BlueOS is functionally top notch - easy to navigate, integrate streaming services and set up playlists, which actually link to the unit and not the control App. It sounds pretty good out of the box, yet there’s potential for enhancement. Used alone, it is perhaps a little forward on certain recordings. The addition of an external DAC improved things significantly. All initial glitches using Wi-Fi have been eradicated with an ethernet cable. May also investigate internal power supply mods if it’s going to be a keeper.
Rega DAC-R - A secondhand bargain, as its a lovely analogue sounding DAC, that definitely enhances the rather forward sound from the Bluesound Node when used as a transport, effectively ‘fleshing’ out the sound. I much prefer this to the more neutral / accurate Topping DAC I also have access to.
Brio-R - Silky smooth compared to my Nait2, but still has that punch and drive to push the music along. Not the last word in detail retrieval, nuance, or speaker control at high volume, but that’s playing at 12 o clock in a tiny 4x4m space. The sound is slightly warmer than neutral and almost valve like in terms of its overall presentation, allowing long term listening without fatigue. It gives a really deep and immersive soundstage (!ooh that’s new!), which eclipsed what the Nait2 (or UnitiQute2) was capable of. And finally, in terms of boogie and engagement, lets just say that Naim do not have the monopoly on Pace Rhythm and Timing. Given the used prices, it’s excellent VFM.
Rega RS3 - very good all rounders that do nothing particularly brilliantly, but more importantly, nothing bad either - a good pragmatic balance. Being front ported they are easy to place, with an attractive form factor, and I like the Rega signature cherry veneer. Being a fan of Rega speakers (I think they are underrated, and have Kytes and Elas too) this was the lowest risk purchase as I had an idea how they’d sound.
A rather nice and unexpected surprise is the low level listening quality this little system seems to excel at. Most systems i’ve had have always needed a bit of volume to come alive, this Rega system sounds balanced at low volume listening levels, and also when right up to 11. Impressive.
I think the units look a little utilitarian, but still aesthetically pleasing - I’ve always liked the Rega red glow, and also the perspex casework. Well made too, if not quite the ‘tank like’ build of some manufacturers.
The Rega remote is simple, light, compact and very responsive.
The biggest revelation is just how big a leap Rega have made with their electronics (amps specifically) since I last heard one of their clamshell units, and I now really want to hear the Aethos, as if the Brio-R is representative, then I want more of that valve influenced / mimicking sound. All with a lifetime warranty too.
Negatives…
The BlueOS software, although functionally excellent, could be a little more minimalist and better designed. ‘Busy’ is the best way to describe it, but it’s a minor criticism. Also, the case is a bit plasticky too, even though it feels well built. And setting up the File Sharing access on an my Mac Mini as a server was a right faff, and took more than one attempt, and some swearing.
For me, the Node ideally needs an external DAC, and sounds best used as a transport only. Would be interesting to try the Node X as this is supposed to have an improved internal ESS Sabre DAC.
The Rega amps do run warm, initially the Brio-R was running scalding hot to the touch, so it did have to go back to Rega Towers (exceptional customer service) for a health check, where the volume trim-bias was fettled. Now just running very warm.
Remote control is a little flimsy compared to Naim’s (superb) remote handsets, but it does the job well.
Rega Brio-R loses control of the RS3s if the volume is pushed very loud.
Definitely not as punchy as my old Nait2, nor quite as entertaining either, but the Nait2 could also be annoying / fatiguing, in this regard and perhaps too much of a good thing.
I miss the Naim app, having all the source selection, adjustments and volume control in one location.
What next?…
Have to admit, I’m not missing my Naim rig that much at all. The UnitiQute2 is now on TV duty in the dinning room, and of course, is still doing sterling service. As this little Rega system is performing so well (and not just for the money), that for a while, I’m not really inspired to explore outside of the bubble.
If the Node is to stay, then I may also commit to a PowerNode N330 to replace the UnitiQute2 in the dining room, as that space is for non critical & TV listening, and would sync beautifully with the Node N130 in my main work room.
The big caveat going froward will be how my RP6 (still in storage) integrates into the system, so i’m looking forward to hearing an all Rega vinyl set up. As the outlay has been minimal in the grand scheme of what I was going to spend, it does open up the possibility of maxing out the vinyl source upstream. An interesting option - source first.
Also, it allows some time to see what Naim launch for their next Supernait (another itch) iteration, and will also allow the finances to recover from the inevitable house building overspend - I’m look at you tiled floor, at well over three times the original predicted budget.
Finally, no, I’m not going to start Naim bashing, as I’ve witnessed some ex Naim-ites often do on other forums, which I find puerile and distasteful, as I still really like and admire Naim kit (new and old). It’s just the quest to find something a little different and to divert off the well trodden path. Onwards.
and a nice one it is.
