Ndx 2

Hi,
Other will be able to give their experience, but I am not sure, as you are running the Nd5xs2 into Ndac in spdif, that an xps dr will be so effective, as on Ndx2 for example.
Better ask perhaps.
Perhaps I am wrong however…

@marcusman can I ask, has the ndac given a significant improvement?

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I’ve read this somewhere as well. Likely more effective on a NDX2 but I’m sure it’ll still be an improvement. Really depends on which direction my future plans entail. XPSDR would be perfect if I decide to trade in the nDAC and ND5xs2 for a NDX2.

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Short answer, YES. I found one 2nd hand for a nice price. Figured I’d take the small gamble and it’s paid off nicely. More of everything. It just sounds right.

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I wouldn’t mess around with an XPSDR. Get a 555PSDR - it’s just so much better - and then compare ND5xs2/nDac with NDX2.

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That does make sense long term. Right now, I’m not going to do much for 6 months but just enjoy what I have. My small bout of upgraditis has subsided for now…

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That’s a good plan.

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I have heard a 555PSDR into a NDX 2 and it is quite simply a staggering upgrade over the bare player. Whether that would shine through a SN3 is of course another question entirely. This upgrade was through a 500 series set-up. I would of thought that with a XPSDR-NDX 2 on a HiCapped SN3 then at this stage the SN3 would be the weak link.

You can also buy a non 555 ps, the Ndac loves it. And in some years get it to dr specs and buy an Ndx2.

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When you look to upgrade speakers listen to evoke 50s.

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One would hope so, as the ps costs almost double the box it is powering.

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So Stephen, how are you liking the NDX2? :smiley:

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Hi DanielH,

i have to say that i’m rather glad i’ve made the jump to the bigger player. It is just so much more of an addictive listen. Stunning. I’m very happy indeed! Thanks for asking. :slightly_smiling_face:

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The Nd5xs2 had the boogie factor you previously mentioned.

Having lived with Ndx2 for a while, does it have the boogie factor, or is it more refined/laidback?

Hi roda,

yes the NDX 2 has the boogie factor in spades. It certainly isn’t laid back. It’s a more captivating listen on every level, as it should be considering the price difference. Don’t get me wrong here the ND5 XS 2 is an amazing player for the money and does a lot of things right, and is a lot of fun for an entry level streamer. But let’s not kid ourselves, the NDX 2 is over the ND5 XS 2, as a SuperNait 3 is over XS 3 amplifier i would imagine. It’s bigger, bolder, crisper, more dynamic and just more in every other way.

I can’t see me upgrading for quite a while as my system is now settling in and continuing to surprise everyday with all sorts of music. Am i glad i have upgraded to the NDX 2? You bet. Would i advise another member to try and stretch to the NDX 2 over ND5 XS 2? Absolutely. Go for for the bigger player if you can, it’s a more compelling experience with every genre of music one cares to throw at it.

Hope this helps.

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Thanks for that Stephen.

Was only asking as initially you seemed to think the Nd5xs2 had more explicit boogie factor, but you’ve had some good time with it now and run in etc.

Really pleased the ndx2 has done the business for you. Sounds great and enjoy for a good while before any upgrade itch occurs, or maybe you’ll be content as you are and no need to throw amy more money at the system.

Cheers

Rod

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Hi Stephen. Yes the NDX2 and SN3 seems like a perfect match and you have the option of further upgrades when ready. If I was you I would be excited at comparing different speaker models with this combination. I’m not in a position to make that leap but still interested in the nd5xs2. I really would like a home demo but my Naim dealer is only selling as special order. It’s a big purchase for me to buy without a safety net. Best wishes. Graham.

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The only big negative for me spending 5 big ones on the Ndx2 (apart from the money itself) is the ever evolving software/applications on the player and when the Ndx3 comes out, ndx2 users wont reap the software/application update benefits no longer.

I feel sorry for nds users spending £7k who cant benefit from Qobuz implementation directly on their device through the recent software upgrade. I appreciate there will be a second market for the nds though if you choose to upgrade.

So on that basis the nd5xs2 appeals as less outlay to lose, but obviously you would want a ndx2 for ultimate performance and to gain benefit from ripped cds etc.

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For many of us cost is a major factor in buying hi fi equipment. I don’t just mean what we can afford but what we are prepared to pay. Or to put it another way what amount we could justify paying.
For me personally streaming is the third tier in the system but a vital tier nevertheless. As such the 2k mark is about my limit. Of course that view could change in the fullness of time.

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And that is where I’m with forking out £5K on tech, that will be supported until the next big thing. I get why stuff does become obsolete and its too hard to support. And you do have to feel for those that bought the old platform just before the release of the new. If you are at a time in your life or don’t care about the upgrade cost then maybe a NDX2 is the way to go. Or maybe I just need to hear one back-to-back with a ND5XS2 ?
I’ve always spent bigger money on the stuff that tends not to go “out of date”. Pre and power amps and speakers. And even then, my pre and power amps have not only be maintained, but upgraded after 20 years of service. OK, so I doubt I’d get my upgrade money back if I sold, but I don’t intend to sell.

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