I think he means NDX2-PRE-POWER. Only with NDX2 set to variable. So with 2x volume controls. Due to the fact that his pre amp has no remote. If I understand correctly….?
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I’d only recommend it if it’s a temporary option.
Thanks for posting this.
Had been stumped by why my newly acquired preloved NDX2 was sounding underwhelming (less good than the N272 I’d upgraded from).
Volume was set to Variable.
Moved it to Fixed and I’m now starting to hear why the NDX2 has so many admirers.
Lots of happy listening ahead.
Mine took a while to really come on to song too. Had a few “Is this it?” moments, but now a few months in and it sounds magic every time. Give it time.
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Yes, the right chain.
A pre-amp where the NDX2 + power-amp is connected.
I’m gone try it. i’ll let you know the experience.
Maybe you know the pre-amp, music first audio (TVC)
I just test the variable and locked position in the NDX2.
There is NO difference between variable and locked!
I just test it this afternoon. Maybe tonight in another listening setting there will be some difference, but for now there isn’t 
The MusicFirstAudio Baby V2 + pass clone class A + (source=) NDX2
If the variable is at max vol then it will be the same, but as you reduce the volume this is done digitally by reducing the bit length in the dac so therefore reduces resolution.
The use of a pre amp may help here. Try the test again at low volumes at night time. That’s when I heard the difference.
On another note, I am sure I’ve seen your speakers somewhere before on here or another forum. They are DIY right?
What design did you use? Or did you design them yourself?
Just connect the SN3 again (complete). It’s more complete.
I test:
- MFA + camp amp + NDX2 variable + locked
- MFA + power-amp SN3 + NDX2 variable + locked
- SN3 complete + NDX2 locked (incl. system automation)
1… excellent and smooth sound. Pure class A. No difference at 100
2… thin and no prat. OK but i think no match.
3… excellent and full body
In coming weeks i will test longer. Those MFA + camp amp (class A) is also a great set. Then in locked position so no concessions.
Yes they are DIT. It is the Via vivace model 2012 (latest model)
You have seen them here on the forum=> DIY with naim :) (are there more ? )
Great build! Nice speakers.
Do I garner from that that you heard a difference?
No, no difference. in the set MFA/camp-amp + NDX-2 as a source locked and variable there is no difference.
Hifi-dog say that at 100 no difference will be. When lower there should be. But i don’t notice that.
Ok, I think the use of a pre amp in the chain helps narrow the difference.
The MFA is a passive preamp. I’m no expert but I would have expected it to be pretty transparent to the source if it’s any good.
To answer your question; yes!
The variable output from the NDX2 is not the same as a pre out. Using it in variable mode will certainly be at a lower SQ than at fixed output.
Use it with its fixed output.
It is definitely correct to switched off the variable volume control as sound is obviously of lower quality. I did try a fair comparison.
There is definitely a difference between the two. If you are not hearing it then that is great for you and your set up. 
I assume that the difference will be different depending on the gear and the situation involved.
I haven’t found much of a difference when using my headphone amp direct of my NDX2, when I use the variable sound control so that I have use of the remote control for volume on the headphones.
I’m going to retract my above post, after trying fixed output with the headphone amp again - it’s much better than the variable output.
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