This might be like shouting into the forest? What arguments are there for replacing my Lindemann Bridge II and Naim nDAC with an NSS333? Note that buying an NSS333 would mean purchasing a used or demo unit.
The question is nagging me just a bit, given that I already own the 332 and NC250.
For the record, I used to own an NPX300 but sold it, thinking “enough is enough”—while things can always get better, I have to draw the line somewhere. I cannot see a psu in the near future, neither for ndac or 333.
My speakers are quite easy to drive so 350 is not an option either I think.
The 333/332/250 combo naturally belongs together and offers a better interface. Any experiences?
@Stover i dont have your streamer. However i found the 333 tol be a great match with the 332 and NC250. I found the power supplies to be very significant
Have you considered ND5XS2 into nDAC? This would be natural partner and I believe system automation would also function improving the user experience. Off course as others say 333 really is a no brainer.
Thanks for the replies.
Initially, I was looking for an affordable streamer solution where the DAC was meant to represent the sound quality; that’s why I dropped the 333. Time has passed, and I’m no longer quite as convinced that a good DAC alone is the way to go—the implementation might be more important. Plus, not putting attention to the source when the 332/250 is part of the chain seems odd I guess.
Yes, I’ve considered the ND5 XS 2 and most other options, but right now, the 333 seems like the natural choice: same family, fewer boxes, and as future-proof as a streamer/DAC can get.
I’m mostly curious to hear about others’ experiences; I’m not dissatisfied with my current setup—it’s more about finalizing the system and getting the best out of what I already have.
I have owned the ND5XS2/NDAC and the NDX2/XPSDR. The 333 has a way of playing music that is beyond both options. It’s the only streamer I have owned that I would be comfortable selling my turntable and using it as my only source.
I wouldn’t go that far myself, but I agree with the sentiment. There is an engaging element to the sound of the NC kit, which makes you fall in love with music listening all over again. I’ve found things via streaming that I wouldn’t have thought I would like, and been fully engaged in the listening experience.
I would still say my turntable is well ahead in performance terms.
Thank you very much. I fully understand what you both mean, and as you likely imply, the experience is subjective. Nevertheless, both approaches provide an indication of where it stands compared to other alternatives.
I will check out if it can be homeauditioned.Ex.dem unit.
I had a 272 before, and later augmented it with an Innuos Zen and Chord Qutest. The 332 really opened out the sound when I got rid of the 272. The 333 was the icing on the cake. I like the system automation of the 333 with the 332 a lot. The 333 has clarity that my old 272 did not have and it was a small step up from the Qutest DAC. I would recommend the adding the 333, I also went down the ex-dem route.
The 272 with 555DR PS can really be a fantastic pre-amp, I used it for years with exactly the same turntable I have now and I was always amazed how well it worked as a stand alone pre-amp. But it had a very different sound signature. The 332, is obviously a dedicated analogue line stage pre-amp so it immediately gains from this. Even without a PS (as I’m currently using it) it is a very open and rhythmic presentation which is the NC character.
As you already have a streamer, I’d consider a DAC (it would be cheaper too). In this scenario I’d point out the Ideon Ayazi mk2. The NSS333 is surely more competent than the NDX2 and it’s a nice piece of gear, but the Ideon wins everytime when I tried it a couple of full Naim system (both OC and NC). And you can also add its master clock later if you fancy it (the depth you get it’s just amazing for me).
Thanks for the input, I appreciate the direction it gives. It brings me back somewhat to my starting point. A good DAC was my initial goal, but I haven’t managed to pull the trigger or find a suitable candidate. The models that get good reviews are often unavailable or not sold in Norway. For the Ideon, I’d have to go to Sweden, which brings complications regarding taxes and such. The NSS333 feels like a safer bet, but to be honest, I’m in the research-phase right now so looking for alternatives also.
What are you using these days, if I may ask—still the 333/300/Nait50?
Welcome, it’s not easy to consider everything, it really depends on how one uses the Hi-Fi system and the final direction will surely have an important impact on SQ. There’s no right or wrong answer, just interesting options to consider.
For instance I’ve tried this DAC through the NDX2, the NSC222 and the NSS333. Then I used connected directly to the preamp in the case of the NSS333. Everytime it got better but it shone when used alone (and I though why on earth should I even consider an NSS333). When I tested it with the 222/250/300 I thought it really gave the system the sound I was personally expecting. I felt that was the direction Naim should have gone for regarding SQ (it might be only me, so take it with a pinch of salt of course).
By the way the Ideon DAC have way more clarity and depth than the NSS333, I was really surprised. But it was not lacking of PRaT at all (it had even more of it) so it was very, very engaging and thought it was a perfect match for the other black boxes. Adding the master clock takes it to another level and that adds an impressive depth in the soundstage for me, it never felt so 3D (and it’s already very good without it).
Another very important thing to consider is the interconnects, I think they need to be optimized, they can be that transformative. Nope, my system now is all OC, I use a FC/202/200DR/NDX2.
The NSS333 is an excellent streamer and it’s a safe bet for sure. The Ideon is just a DAC and you need to listen to it in the first place. Maybe it’s perfect for you, maybe not. Only your ears can tell. All in all I think it really depends on what deals you may find in Norway, sometimes it’s better to stick to the local market, even though it’s such a big pity you can’t easily test it, I’m very much convinced it’s totally worth it.
Thanks for your detailed reply, very interesting; I have to admit I mixed you with Blackbird, hence the question about the hifi-system.
I completely agree with your description of how to approach hi-fi and sonic ideals—very well put.
There is a lot of streamers and DACs to choose from out there, and you make Ideon sound more than interesting. Availability is not very good though, I have been looking for units from Aqua, and a La Voce 3 is available. The NSS333 is still on my radar, but for now, I’ve decided to sit on the fence a little longer and do some more research.
These inputs have made me a little wiser, thank you again to all. In the meantime, Lindemann/ Ndac do the job pretty well also, good enough, even if it could always be better and so on, there`s no end to this actually.
I’m glad I gave you some food for thoughts, that’s the aim of this forum in the end
You have some excellent piece of gear right now, so I would not rush anything. Personally I like to take my time, test different pieces of gear more than once at different times and in different environments, if possible. It’s quite easy to break the balance you might have reached, so it’s always wise to be careful (not to loose both enjoyment and money).
I’m sure you’ll find the best option for your taste, but really don’t rush at this point if you aren’t convinced.
.
