Yes, that probably sums up my idea. It might be an interesting experiment. But, fun too.
Likely set up, as Prefix “K”, (to work with a Linn Troika). Powered by an olive era HiCap.
It’s an idea - a curiosity - that I have harboured for some time now.
Maybe one day ?
Here are some thoughts on all this - just to make this a longer post to read and consider - for you and anyone else interested in these same topics…
Some years ago, decided to add Naim olive shoe boxes - NAC72 + HC + NAP140 - in between our existing and original LP12 and Epos ES14’s. In so many ways it was a nostalgic, romantic idea, a system from an earlier time, an homage to late 1980’s, maybe even a system that I should have had. (Back in those days). Also, very much for vinyl reply. A celebration of vinyl records.
Image Note : Part of the magic of the NAC72 - its modular build - we fitted : (1) NA323 (k) phono cards to “Phono” input ; then later… (2) 326 straight through or link boards to “Aux” input, for use with an external phono’ amp.
When the NAC72 came into our house - one of its attractions - it arrived with NA323 “K” internal phono cards. Which we used and enjoyed. At that time, our LP12 was still in its “all original form’’, untouched from 1986. Shortly after this, we decided to embark on a separate project to refurbish and upgrade the “old fruit box”. When it came back, we continued to use the NAC72 and internal boards, but it was also obvious our LP12 - now a version of Selekt - was now more resolving. It now leans more towards the modern Linn lean and neutral character, but also incredibly resolving. At the same time, the Ittok and Troika influences are still apparent, it has bags of boogie too. The transformation was astounding, (maybe as you have also experienced recently too, with you own upgrades). This led me to bring our Rega Aria into the system as an experiment to see how far old girl might go now ?
The addition of the external Rega Aria phono amp gave a significant uplift to our vinyl record play back, and prompted a further question - how far could one go with this - with better external phono amp stages ?
Image notes : Our LP12 - previously with Rega Aria - plus Naim olive shoe boxes
The era correct solution might be a Naim Prefix, with either olive HiCap or even olive SuperCap? Which was carefully considered, at that time. I went on a search and looked at a few. But never had a chance to hear this option. Maybe this curiosity still persists?
With Solstice arriving and the prospect of new Naim boxes - at that time - we waited to see if a new phono stage might appear.
So, later, we considered (1) Naim NVC TT, with and without psu (2) SuperLine, with and without psu (3) and Rega Aura.
The SuperLine with HiCap DR was our preferred choice. It’s an outstanding phono’ amp, elevating our LP12 to something quite special. Now maybe the best source in our house.
Image Note : Our LP12 now, with SL + HCDR, plus Naim olive.
Coming back to the original idea…
I’ve no doubt SL + HCDR is a better SQ option, compared to a Naim Prefix + olive HC.
However, keeping everything within era still has a certain appeal.
As for the idea of moving our LP12 + SuperLine over to the other system (with NAC282 + SuperCap → active PMC 25.23i ). It’s unlikely. Thinking about system building, my personal opinion is to NOT attempt equivalency between different formats or sources in a hifi system. It avoids all the trouble associated with comparisons ( and any disappointment) between, say, vinyl records and digital streaming. They are just different.
Bringing the SuperCap DR into our Vinyl first system is another great idea - to use as psu with our SuperLine - maybe another intriguing experiment, in time. I would be fascinated to listen and learn. However, don’t ever see us accommodating a full width box in this system. Hence, a SC would never stay beyond an experiment. If anything, we would prefer to make this system simpler, with fewer boxes. Maybe fewer shoe boxes, to be specific.
In any case, we have moved to create two very different systems, quite deliberately.
WHY are these two systems different ?
Both are built on a Naim foundation, but they represent two distinct philosophies of high-fidelity sound. The difference between them isn’t just about the components; it’s about “Classic Character” vs. “Modern Precision.”
System One: The “Olive” Soul & Analogue Mastery
This system is a love letter to the “Flat Earth” era of Hi-Fi. It prioritizes the LP12 as the primary source, supported by the legendary NAC 72 - HC - NAP 140 combination.
- The Sound Profile: This setup offers incredible “PRaT” (Pace, Rhythm, and Timing). The Epos ES14 are world-renowned for their mid-band transparency and “musical” engagement, especially when driven by the 140.
- The Experience: This is an intimate, organic system. The refurbished Troika/Ittok combo is a classic pairing that provides a lush, involving analogue experience that modern digital often struggles to replicate.
- The Tech: It uses the older “half-width” Naim cases, which are highly regarded for their specific tonal sweetness compared to the later “Black” series.
System Two: Modern Resolution & Active Control
This system is built for the high-resolution era. It is significantly more powerful and technically advanced, utilizing
- The Sound Profile: With the NAC 282 and SuperCap DR, this system has a much lower noise floor, massive dynamic range, and far greater “grip” on the music. It is designed to be analytical without being clinical.
- The Innovation: The move to the PMC Active upgrade kit is the biggest differentiator. By removing the passive crossovers in the speakers and using dedicated amplification for the drivers, you get much faster transients and tighter bass control than the NAP 140 can provide.
- The Source Focus: This is a digital powerhouse. The Naim DAC + 555 DR is a formidable combination that brings “analogue-like” weight to Qobuz and CD playback.
Comparison at a Glance
| Feature | System One (Analogue First) | System Two (Digital/Active) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Emotional engagement & Vinyl ritual | High-resolution transparency & Power |
| Speaker Type | Classic Passive (Standmount) | Modern Active (Floorstander) |
| Pre-Amp Tier | Classic “Olive” (NAC 72) | Reference “Black” (NAC 282) |
| Power Philosophy | Discrete & Minimalist (NAP 140) | Massive Headroom (SuperCap/Active) |
Summary of the “WHY”
We have essentially created two different ways to enjoy music:
- System One is for “leaning in”—sitting down with a record and enjoying the texture and “soul” of a vintage-leaning setup.
- System Two is for “total immersion”—a high-performance rig that can handle the complexities of modern streaming and provide a massive, acoustic soundstage.
Hope all these musings make for an interesting read on a Sunday…
In reply to how a Naim Prefix might work - maybe an experiment - with system one.
Also, maybe a relevant post in the context of the utility of vinyl record players, in this “show us your turntable” thread.
Mostly, my intention is just to listen to a lot of music now and for a while yet.
BW
R