I have had an exciting year of upgraditis which is mainly due to visiting this forum!
My system is now an ND5 XS2 > NDS + PS555 > 52 (8 pot) +SC > 135s > Sonus Faber Electa Amator 3s, which I purchased used last weekend.
I am ecstatic, all the usual reveals from an upgrade that one would expect, but what has really exceeded my expectations is the level of engagement. I cannot stop bobbing my head, the famed PRaT and emotion conveyed, particularly the vocals. Some of my favourite songs have brought me to the edge of tears, it is so emotional.
The true litmus test was my wife, who has never really ‘got it’, and was skeptical but indulges me; as soon as I started playing music, she just looked at me and said ‘they are beautiful’ (the sound, although they look terrific). I have since sat her down in the sweet spot and she repeated the sentiment. I keep seeing her bobbing her head in time, which has never happened before. So I feel that I have found the perfect balanced pairing of the equipment for my tastes.
When I auditioned the EA3s it was with a NSS 333 and a NAP 250 (current) and I could hear the sound difference very clearly which, to me, was much more clinical and probably more accurate but less emotionally involving.
I only stream both locally and through the top tier of Tidal, so of course those components are not olives, however the NDS and the PS555 are 3 generations ago, the ND5 XS2 I bought for the modern streaming and Roon capabilities, as I sync to 3 other rooms with Musos. However it is interesting that my taste is clearly different from the new range, which I am not denegating at all, just not my taste.
I started with Naim over 35 years ago and feel I have reached the pinnacle. But…….what is it I hear someone say…….how about a second PS555…….I have my eye on one. However I think I will wait a bit and enjoy this buzz for a while then take it up a notch again.
When I look at what a comparable system would cost today I realise what tremendous value I have managed to achieve. What a great hobby!
