NDX2 or ND5XS2 with Core/nDAC/555PSDR

Hi-Fi Corner
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I am thoroughly enjoying my Core/nDAC/555PSDR combination into a 72/HC/250 (recapped)
I rather like the sweet-spot of my “72/HC/250” combo, so no plans to deviate from these.

An opportunity has arisen to put either an NDX2 or ND5XS2 onto my nDAC/555PSDR.

I’ve had a thorough search and read, in this forum about these two streamers whereby many here have expressed their satisfaction of improving on them with an nDAC/555PSDR. Many here indicating the ND5XS2 to be sufficient with an nDAC/555PSDR. (I don’t need a display on a streamer).

If I skip the NDX2, and go with a ND5XS2, I may add extra funds and buy a SuperCap-DR for my 72.

In Perth-Australia, it’s currently not possible to audition or try-out any Naim gear owing to a distributor/dealer conundrum. So all purchases are blind buying.

I’m hoping this to be my “end-stop” system. So just looking for comments about these plans/thoughts?

Thanks in advanced.

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Hi,

Interesting this and I can’t answer butt perhaps others can, if you’re using a Core direct with a nDac what extra does the streamer bring to the piece?

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Perhaps access to streaming platforms such as Tidal and/or Qobuz?

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The most cost effective option would be an ND5XS2, giving you access to the new naim internet radio service and online streaming. Tidal sounds very, very good on the new Max firmware.

We tried Core over both SPDIF into nDAC and Ethernet to streamer. Could hear no difference, so now our Core is hidden away on the end of an Ethernet cable. We’re actually using a NAS as the music store (no internal drive on Core) and have Asset serving the content. Core only used for occasional rips.

ND5XS2/nDAC/555PSDR is a very capable digital source.

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Argh thanks I thought the Unitiserve also acted as a server, as do the Zeniths, so assumed the Core would.

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You’d have to spend a lot more money to improve upon this combo IMHO.

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Thankyou for your response.

You must have read my mind - as I was thinking about where to connect the Core after a streamer is introduced to my system. Having the Core hidden away from the main audio system is appealing, as I could place it adjacent to my Synology NAS, thus avoiding having to buy another Naim DC1 cable.

It seems that the ND5XS2/nDAC/555PSDR combo may be close to sounding similar to a ND555 at a significantly lower price.

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I’m guessing that would have to be a ND555 with dual 555PSDR supplies.

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Normally I would say that if you don’t have good dealer/repair support locally, then you should pick a brand that does offer those things – not Naim unfortunately in Australia. However as you have a Core, the situations changes. I really like my Core in every respect (yes, of course, the firmware could use some development!) but I have found no streamers that work as well as the Naim offerings, and in particular when dealing with the Core. I have tried several. Sometimes they mangle the artwork, loose tracks altogether, or get albums mixed together! The trouble comes from the Core treating its own rips differently to files that are downloaded.

I use the ND5XS2 as well as the Atom and Atom HE, with Benchmark DACs and preamps. No complaints whatsoever about the sound!

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That would be my guess as well. Just the ND555 with one 555PS should be enough(two is better). I haven’t had a good listen to the NSS333 yet with the new PS. Regardless neither option is cheap.

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The new firmware update for the streamers sounds really good IMHO.

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Another fan of ND5 XS2 with nDAC here. As stated, this is a formidable streaming solution. Only downside is 3-box-source if you include the 555.

Because you already have the 555 for the nDAC - I like the idea of putting savings on the NDX2 towards a supercap for the pre-amp.

This approach leaves you with much flexibility for the future.

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Could it be Dave for the same money as ndac/555 or Weiss 501 instead of 3 boxes?

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A good upgrade is to find a non DR 555PS for the nDac, it matches the nDac better and gives a better and more balanced musical sound.

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Absolutely! I’ve heard the Dave and it’s impressive for sure.

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Very hard to find in North America for sure. (I’m actually glad so I won’t be tempted!). Underrated but I find the XPSDR sounds great with my nDAC.

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I see, also applies to the XPS,I have found.

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Hi marcusman the software update you mention will that update automatically or is it an operation you have to carry out for yourself, thanks.

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If you bring up the Focal&naim app you should see a download indicator in the top left hand corner saying an update is available from the standby screen.

If not IIRC you can manually check in Settings->Check for Updates. 3.10.0(5598) is the latest

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We’ve heard Dave and 502.

Both excellent.

Both sound totally different to an nDAC!

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