I’ve recently downsized to a simple single box system and I’m now happily listening to the music rather than the kit. It is a Uniti 1 but has just recently been back to Salisbury for the high res streaming chip and a new display - as well as updated firmware to 4.7 I think. I’ve come from a CD5i and Naim Nait XS 2 but I like the simplicity and what it does particularly with the digital audio - albeit Spotify rather than Tidal.
However… I’m missing something the Nait did well which was a little more resolution at low listening volumes. I’m wondering if this would be cleared up going to a Uniti 2 - but I’m thinking maybe not.
The DAC is up to date and perhaps the amplifier just needs a little more power which leads me to my second thought which is the addition of a power amp like a NAP 200. I know this isn’t a one box wonder and I have no intention of going back to a pre/power or multiple box system but wondered if this may be a pleasant step to take with the Uniti?
I don’t think you’ll find that much difference between a Uniti and a Uniti2. If you can do without the CD player, a Superuniti might be a better option.
Putting a 200 on the Uniti might also be worth a try, but if you’re prepared to have two boxes, there are plenty of other options. A separate streamer with NaitXS or Supernait, or a 172 or 272 with separate power amp, would avoid the redundant amp in the Uniti/200 and potentially sound quite a bit better.
Thanks for the reply. I know it’s a little contradictory suggesting two boxes as it does tend to invite suggestions of swapping to a pre/power combo but I’m really trying hard to avoid being dragged into an audio arms race again. We do use the CD player a little bit but mainly stream with the odd session of vinyl.
The Supernait wouldn’t allow direct connection to the Stageline nor would the 172 or 272.
@DaveS Apologies for dragging you in unannounced - there is no way to PM on this forum and I noticed in your profile you have an upgraded Uniti 1 and wondered if you had a view about switching to a Uniti 2 or adding on a NAP?
Hi @Adam. Indeed I took the same route as you in that I had my Uniti 1 upgraded in the same manner. One of the things I love about the original Unitis is just how versatile they are; it even powers my Stageline phono preamp with just one connection and BBC Radio in HD format sounds stunning as does Tidal. I upgraded by adding a NAP200 and it was a good step to take which improved the sound immensely. The Uniti’s internal amp is fine, but for me it lacked just that little extra something that I couldn’t put my finger on. The NAP200 made a massive difference. I’ve since changed that to a NAP250DR which is even better and gives a tighter bass and that and my IPL Transmission Line Speakers make the windows ratttle!
As others have said, there are other upgrade routes you can take. For me, it was a matter of cost. I’m retired now and I’m happy with my system, which sounds really good. Hope this helps.
@DaveS Thanks it does. I came from a Nait XS 2, raspberry Pi home brew, CD5i and have a Stageline and Rega. The main reason the Uniti appealed was for the one box approach. Couldn’t justify a Naim streamer as the Pi sounded just as good with the DAC I chose for a fraction of the cost but the OS on it simply wasn’t reliable and would disconnect.
Sadly the Nait developed a fault on the volume pot - I think maybe oxidisation which made a dent in its value. I could either take it on the nose and get it serviced or try something new. In a fit of pique I got rid of everything and took a punt on a recently upgraded Uniti but as you say there was a certain little something missing after moving over from the Nait. I certainly don’t want to go back to a pile of boxes and the Uniti is exceptional value when you consider not only the CD but the streaming aspect of it.
I don’t have budget for the NAP 250 currently but I reckon I’m going to give the 200 a go - cheers for the pointers!