I have finally decided enough is enough. I have just traded in my ND 555, NAC 552 DR and three power supplies for a Linn Klimax DSM3. I have kept the NAP 500DR. The new set up sounds great - that affinity for Naim and Linn products seems still to persist. Thank you to Hungry Halibut and the many contributors to this forum over the years for their knowledgeable advice
16 Likes
For a minute I thought you got rid of all the cardboard boxes holed up in the loft. Congrats, I’m sure the new setup sounds great, how about a pic.
6 Likes
Congratulations, are you going to post some pictures in the System Pics thread?
Having done similar a few months ago I’m still thrilled every time I sit down to listen to my Selekt DSM into NAP 350’s.
Linn DSM’s into Naim Amps, simply marvellous! 
Here’s to years of happy listening…
Simon
3 Likes
So 3 boxes +speakers, not none as title suggests!
1 Like
It’s my pleasure. I really hope that Naim can come up with a new box that compares with the Klimax DSM, which I’m sure is great but won’t sound like the 555/552. I do wonder whether swapping the 500 for a pair of 350s might actually be a better match, as you can connect balanced, and you lose those silly Burndies. Three boxes and those lovely speakers, fantastic.
5 Likes
Other option is Linn Solo power amps. They are quite pricey though!
Well, you have kept the King of all Boxes. It’s beautiful and defo Boxidious.
Don’t despair, Boxing Day is near and return from thy sins.
1 Like
That’s a great idea!
The dealer is trying very hard to get me to part-ex my NAP 500 for some new 500 solos but the price of the upgrade (if that is what it is - opinions, please) is off-putting
1 Like
Thanks. The Dynaudio Heritage Specials deserve better recognition. I have had many loudspeakers. In other posts I have admitted to making mistakes by failing to match the speaker to the listening room. I had Kudos 808s. They were too big. I should never say ‘never’ but I can’t see me changing the Specials. If anyone out there is in the market for an exceptional standmount check them out. They aren’t cheap but they’re worth it
1 Like
I agree. They are about £23k each. So that’s £46k minus part exchange for the 500DR.
The 500DR is a great amp. See how you get on!
I’d try the Solo 500s against the NAP350s if you are tempted to go that way. As Dan says, see how it goes with the 500 first.
Enjoy the KDSM - a very nice piece of kit.
1 Like
At first glance, I thought that was pasty on top of the sub ;-))
1 Like
Linn prices, lately, has just gone through roof.
I’ve owned my Heritage Specials for just over 3 years. They are, without a doubt, the most transparent speaker I have ever owned. It’s a blessing and a curse. If the upstream components aren’t up to the task, they will relentlessly expose them.
I took a look at their prices.
Rather than gone through the roof, I would say they are insane. In fact a lot of Hi Fi has reached insane pricing levels.
I think this is an industry that is digging its own grave. Some of the most expensive players are in big financial trouble according to the TNT audio site.
1 Like
I don’t see Linn prices being out of line with, for example, Naim. Linn’s top power amp, the 800 Solo, is rather less than half the price of Naim’s top NAP S1. The Linn Klimax DSM3 costs the same as NS555 with two power supplies but doesn’t need a preamp. Add a 552 and we’re approaching half the price for the front end.
Extreme high end hifi is and always been mind-blowingly expensive.
Roger
1 Like
Exactly, I have just been lucky enough to get my 500DR system all used for around 38% of full retail price.
A full 500DR system of ND555, 2 x 555PSDR, 552DR and 500DR is around £85k new. I paid around £33k. And then I upgraded all the standard cables to Superlumina.
The Linn LP12 stuff I have bought alot of it new. So paid alot on Klimax LP12.
It’s the same as with alot of high end stuff. It is expensive, but buying used and you will save so much !
However you do need someone else to purchase new and then want to change. Theoretically changing may be least likely with top models …but of course, get enough threads going on some hifi fora, promoting the benefits of downsizing/simplifying/going active/ changing brands, and it might nag at said purchaser’s mind sufficiently to sow doubt and desire for change, and lo and behold another full 500 system comes on the secondhand market!
1 Like