Long time lurker, first time poster, please go easy. I welcome your views on a dilemma. I’m currently sporting an ND5 XS, Rega P3, Musical Fidelity M3i (+ LPS V90), and Dynaudio 40 specials. I’ve had the ND5 XS and M3i for over a decade now and always enjoyed the combo. Even better now with the Dynaudio’s as a recent edition. I like streaming, still have a big CD collection, and vinyl. I’ve been pretty frugal in building this system, always mindful of budget, and managed to build this system on the back of good sales.
So the dilemma you ask – got the itch to upgrade. I’m in Australia and can get a Uniti Star for about $4k (£2k) or Nait XS 3 for the same price. That’s basically my budget. Both great bargains, especially the Star.
So the choice is to sell off the M3i and ND5 XS and replace completely with the Star. Advantage is that a one box gets my family more inclined to use it. I also arguably get a more modern streamer than the ND5 XS. But of course need a phono stage. Or keep the ND5 XS, replace the M3i with the XS 3 and perhaps down the track save up to replace the ND5 XS (maybe with a ND5 XS 2). Advantage is that the XS 3 might be a better match for the Dynaudio 40’s and a nice fit with vinyl and I do like listening with headphones as well.
I know this seems a weird decision, and I don’t think there’s a wrong answer (I’ll be happy with either), but curious on views.
Is there any possibility of auditioning first? I don’t know your MF amp and you might prefer it to the Naim competitors, so worth a listen first if you can.
Between the Naim alternatives it’s a tough choice. If you’re looking to the long term, ND5XS 2 / NAIT XS3 should outperform a Star and probably even a Nova. As a fan of the XS range that’s the way I would jump. But I do understand the Star has the advantage of just one box and family friendliness.
I think the key words you use are “I’m in Australia”. That means that you need to pay particular attention to support if or rather when it is needed. (There have been some negative comments in this regard on the forum about support in Australia). You do know the ND5 XS2 is now discontinued? Also, the Star has a lot of “stuff” in one box and has had a checkered history (at least on this forum). I certainly don’t want to put someone off upgrading with Naim, but make sure you have all the facts.
Thanks Roger. I think you outline my exact dilemma. It’s really a case of do I fancy an upgraded streamer right now with the Star or wait a couple more years for an ND5 XS 2 etc. Unfortunately there’s no Naim dealer where I live and the main ones are short flights away! But I’m confident either will sound good with the Dynaudio’s.
I would keep the MF amp and get the best streamer you can afford (find?). I’m sure there should be some ex-demo ND5 XS2s kicking around.
You say you enjoy the system so the MF probably sits well with the speakers. Why upset that balance? The upgrade itch can be strong but may not yield the outcome you’re after.
Updating the source will likely bring worthwhile benefits however.
Thanks @cephas. You raise a really good point. Indeed I had to replace the screen of my ND5 XS as it faded - I didn’t get a lot of support, but I have an electronics background, hence I replaced it myself, which worked well (and a lot more cheaper). Yep, realise the ND5 XS2 is discontinued - so whatever might be current in a couple of years time, say a 3rd version etc. Or even a secondhand NDX 2, which might be had for a reasonable price.
I dare say the XS3 would be a nice upgrade over your current amp, but my gut feeling is that if you can find an ND5XS2 at a reasonable price, that would be a wise move. That’s partly because it’s a good sound quality upgrade over your older model, but also because it has significantly improved streaming and iRadio options, and better all round functionality (unless you want a screen and a remote control.) Perhaps more importantly, if your ND5XS develops a fault there is a significant chance that it would be unrepairable due to parts availability, or that repair would be too expensive to be worthwhile. You won’t get much for it now, but as a non-runner you would be hard pressed to give it away.
Thanks @ChrisSU. Interestingly since posting this and doing quick research on ND5 XS 2 I see it’s gone on sale, presumably as it’s been discontinued. So I’m probably leaning towards going down this path, hopefully sell off my existing gear, and eventually buy the XS 3.
@naimdownunder if your budget allows the ultimate would be going for ND5XS2 together with a Nait XS3.
If budget is an issue just upgrade to an ND5XS2 keeping your MF.
Cheers.
Thanks Dugby, I did actually look previously but didn’t find any secondhand 2’s for sale. Most secondhand stuff on various websites seem to be Naim separates.
Well everyone, I just pulled the trigger on the ND5 XS 2. Managed to get it for a bargain (over 50% off) like Dugby. I must admit, despite all your good advice, I did vacillate a bit. I was perhaps caught by the allure of a great looking Uniti one-box, but also the big discounts on offer. It wasn’t until I was enjoying a glass of wine with my wife listening to vinyl that reminded me I like both digital and vinyl. Looking forward to playing some of my high res audio and easy streaming. I’m selling off some of my gear, so hopefully in time I can find a decent deal on an XS 3 or even better, a secondhand SN2/3. Thanks for all your help.
