I use ND555 with two CD555PSDR. I recently had the older PS serviced and I don’t think it’s sounded quite right since. This might have been what triggered me to think about alternatives. I was actually exploring amplifier options, but the demo was performed with a Grimm MU2, which @frenchrooster mentioned above. The combination (amp plus MU2) was truly astonishing.
I have heard a demo of the new series Naim streamer with NC amplification. It is a noticeably different sound to the OC 500 series.
Most similar to OC or NC?
Grimm is good if you’re a Roon user or has this situation changed?
It has changed, someone responded to me recently. UPNP also now.
Ooh! That makes it a very, very interesting option. Especially with a Diablo 333 
I can’t say I’ve heard the NC recently enough to be sure. I’d just say that to me it sounded in a different league to either. I was listening to it with the Gryphon Diablo 333. The combination of those components sounded better than my system. It was so involving and really conveyed the emotion in the music. I felt drawn in to the performance. I’m thinking about doing a home demo, but I do want to try the Dartzeel CTH 8550 ii too, probably before requesting that home demo.
Thank you NigelB
So this is what it comes down to OC v NC sound signature. This feels like a solid stance. NSS 333 sits well with the N50 and is just a two (or three) box streaming solution. The more I think about the less I want multiple power supplies coming out of my ears…
Added to which I’m very happy with the Naim sound and frankly staying all Naim is the easy option which suits me for now.
This is me, thinking aloud. Things may change..
Some here went from Naim to Aavik. 2 boxes. Divided opinions on Aavik. Never heard myself, but good reputation.
Well you can run a NSS333 without an off board power supply but the ND555 needs the 555 external power supply.
Bit left-field, but have you considered the NSC222/NA250 combination, with or without the NPX300? Best value 2 or 3 box NC system, IMHO, and all available secondhand/ex-demo.
I have thought about it and I appreciate that it’s a great combo. For now though, I’m wedded to the N50 and would like to match this with better front end and speakers. I like an integrated amp but am less keen on the idea of pre and streamer combined. My rationale being; streamer tech will likely move on quicker than amp tech.
It’s just the way I feel about things, you pays your money etc., etc..
Fair enough.
A bare NSS333 feeding a Nait N50 might work, but a NSS333/NPX300 or ND555/PS555DR into a Nait N50 is too much of a Monkfish for me. The externally powered streamers would just be wasted and unable to reveal their true worth.
I of course say this without hearing these combinations, so strictly a personal opinion.
I can confirm. That you are wrong 
I am happy to be wrong, but have you actually compared NSS333/PS555DR/N50 to say NSS333/PS555DR/NAC332/NC NAP250?
I am pleased that you are getting on well with your system. Your ears, your set up and so
forth.
The Nait 50 is a different style of amp to what you had before. And you find it better. That is what matters.
I say this: let’s see how you get on!
If it works well for you as it is then the system is complete. Doesn’t matter if someone says otherwise.
Have not but that was not what I replied to. I replied on that a PS on a 333 improves sound quality a lot on a Nait 50 and that it’s not waisted at all 
Indeed, there are no universal truths here, just very subjective opinions of fallible human beings.
I am owner of full 500DR system and love it.
I have listened to full 300 system NC a few times and it has a different character.
If I was to change out I would go Gryphon Diablo 333 potentially for one box amplification and then review the ND555 and 2 x 555PSDR vs Grimm Mu2 and other streamer DAC systems.
I am happy with my Marantz SA12SE and LP12 Radikal set up.
Having a classic full 500DR set up and changing is difficult as the Fraim would have to go ultimately. I would be looking at complete change out.
Much easier to stay put and enjoy what I have. There is however an itch. I am starting to question what I have!
I had non DR too and I do have a rather small room. I find the current system more in balance with room and my speakers. In a bigger room with big speakers I have no doubt things would change. I’d love to hear Nait 50 with high sensitivity large paper cone speakers. I believe it would be a wonderful experience because it’s quality watts even though they are less than their bigger brothers
I agree, but in the same time, for ears, room, speakers …I can understand that someone may prefer the Nait in some cases.
If you do go ND555, don’t listen to 1 vs 2 PS555s, unless you are ready to buy the second power supply.
