I recently upgraded my system (or more accurately replaced it) having not changed anything since 2006.
I now have some kit in excellent condition that I am unsure what to do with. I have a “spare” Nait 5i, a CD5i and a pair of B&W CM1 speakers.
I am rather loathe to sell being something of a hoarder (“just in-case”) and given that each component would only likely fetch £200-300, I am not sure it is worth it.
Storing suits my “just in-case” philosophy and I have room. They are in their original packaging and presently under a double bed, so no issues with damp or cold. This just feels like a bit of a waste.
My preferred option would be a second system, but this would be a tough sell to certain other members of the household. I think I could swing it, but it would probably have to be as an addition to the TV in the main lounge which brings with it its own constraints. Currently the speakers (light wood colour) wouldn’t match the colour scheme, but I think some vinyl wrap (has anyone done this?) intended for kitchen cabinets would solve this. Stands would be a problem - she hates them and the CM1s being rear ported do not like being too close to walls. Any suggestions?
The CD and Nait would fit nicely in the slots on the cabinet (see pics - obviously the tree is seasonal!) so not an issue with them.
I would also need cables (didn’t replace the NAC A5s) and interconnects.
And something to link the TV in to the system (“which honestly is the whole purpose of this darling”) and allow decent streaming (Tidal). I was thinking something like a WiiM?
Budget would be commensurate with the value of the other components of the system (a few hundred, certainly <£1k in total new kit).
How should I proceed? Should I take on this challenge or just be sensible and sell?
I would say that sounds like a very good second system or a starter system for other family members with the addition of a streamer from WIIM or BluSound .
Maybe consider the “spare components” plus the XS3 as a trade in for a used SN2 or SN3…
Plenty of Supernaits from reputable sources out there at the moment and still some new SN3’s at many dealers.
Just a thought…
Why clutter up the sitting room with stuff that clearly isn’t wanted by others. Sell it, it’s only hifi and not a unique artwork. If you don’t think it would raise enough money to be worthwhile, donate it to your charity shop of choice and do some good.
You could also consider to give it away to some less fortunate friend or family. I’ve given my Nait 5 / Cd5i and bw cm5’s to my dad when mom passed away. I had to get him started on something else and since he loves music and my wife kept complaining about the Hifi it was a logical choice.
Yes a good thought and one I had when I was replacing the original system. I am however very happy with the XS3 sound andI did vote “no more upgrades” in the recent poll!
I am gradually moving the TV and cabinet out of the corner to make space for some small subtle stands and the speakers if I do go down this route.
HH - I hear what you are saying, but I am lucky enough to have another sitting room which gets the most use and there are frequent complaints about the TV sound quality when we do sit in here. I am to an extent exaggerating the potential resistance, and whilst if I suggested it de novo, it would get shot down, once done it would be enjoyed.
I also agree with you and Ardbeg10y that this system will eventually be passed along, but neither of my kids have a permanent residence yet and if they don’t want it then a charitable donation would definitely be in order.
Second or third systems really come down to a simple question: do you have other rooms that you spend significant time in that would benefit from music?
Only you can answer that. Everyone’s lifestyle is different. I have a system in so many different rooms and use them all a lot. Some people focus their whole lives around just the living room.
Here’s another idea; get a new telly. We recently bought a Panasonic Z90B, which has a built in soundbar below the screen and a subwoofer on the back. As well as best in class picture quality the sound is really excellent. You could even sell the spare kit and put it towards the telly!
Then store it for future use.
I wouldn’t mess with the finish on the speakers as this would likely render them worthless going forward.
If you want to buy something for that TV/Music sound system that is a sensible price and doesn’t have an aesthetic’s problem, consider a MuSo 2. We run one in the Lounge for TV and Music duties and very well it does too.
Set it up as a second system and enjoy. That’s what I’ve done. Having glorious music is such a joy in any room. If it doesn’t work, you can sell it off later.
Thing is, you buy this stuff with your head and your heart.
Charity shops are tricky with electronics, some do - some don’t. If you haven’t a family member to donate it to then make it the basis of a second a second system.
I am in the process of shipping off my SN3 and I feel a bit sad . But not sad enough to keep it . I am thinking about having a vinyl only second system but everything’s a bit up in the air at the mo’…
Thanks for that. The wrap is the same sort of stuff they wrap cars in and is designed to be removed without any residue or damage so I’m optimistic it would be fine. If I end up passing it on then it probably won’t matter.
Do have a decent sized kitchen ? The speakers might be a bit big (my solution was to swap in a pair of Dali Zensors) but the NAIM stuff would be a significant upgrade on your current solution. Add an old iPad for Spotify/streamed radio and you’re sorted.
What do you really want to do? Asking for advice on the internet generally doesn’t work out when you give two options. Replies are generally 50/50 so you end up back to square one. Flip a coin and stick with it.
1400 or 1500 ish pounds to a charity shop that won’t know what its worth. If you have a wish to donate, sell it in the usual places, donate to your charity of choice. If you have another use, even one for the future, store it in a warm dry room. Alternatively sell and put the funds to the inevitable upgrade. Of course you could just ignore me and the rest of the forum and do what you want to do.
I use an Atom linked to the TV for a big uplift in sound quality. With the right speakers that might be a solution that would work for you. A small single box, so easy to blend in with a room and for me at least, plenty good enough as a second system.
I’ve seen them go for under £1k on ebay. Not sure how well matched they would be with your current speakers, you would need to check that out.
. But not sad enough to keep it 
. I am thinking about having a vinyl only second system but everything’s a bit up in the air at the mo’…
