traded the sn3 for the nait50
We all know the downgrade for less boxes, but the downgrade for only the look and still the same number of boxes, it’s a first for me.
But if it makes someone happy….
It’s going from 1 box to 0.5 of a box sweetie.
Good one
I’d like to know what people thought of the difference between the SN3 and the Nait 50?
There is much discussion about the Nait50 in an other thread with very much posts but with few direct comparisons to other Naim products. The only direct comparison to the SN3 is Click here. With the search function in this theard you can find other opinions to Nait 50 and Supernait 3.
I can understand why some may prefer the Nait 50 over the SN2/3, at least from a quick listen. I’ve compared the SN3 with the Nait2 quite a lot in my smaller setup/room. Especially in a smaller space the SN3 can be a bit woolly and soft round the edges, particularly compared to the Nait2, which sounds very agile, tight and more direct in comparison. The SN3, however, is bigger, richer and in a larger space and especially with an added PSU (I added the SCDR), it can be wonderfully engaging. I imagine though, that if one introduces the Nait 50 next to it (if it’s anything like the Nait 2), the immediate reaction can be just freaking positive! So I would give it a bit of time before making conclusions and depending on room.
@garcon Good to read about your SN3 v N2 comparison. I am a long time N2 fan and user. With all the SN2/3 on the used market I have been tempted to try one. Reading comments like yours are helpful, thanks.
I feel the same way Bob. I have an SN2, fronted by an NDS (the other amazing Naim bargain), and the improved SQ would have to be pretty darn good for me to upgrade. I really can’t believe how good this simple system sounds.
Or … maybe I’m just too content …
I’m using a Raspberry Pi into a Chord 2qute Dac for streaming but will definitely pick up a used NDX some time I’ve seen them for £8 - 900 recently a bargain.
SN2 - yes.
Other amazing second-hand sound per £ bargains include, in descending order…
Olive 250
272 (unless you want built-in Qobuz).
SBLs
Apart from not being particularly muscular, it is one of the best sounding integrated amps I have ever heard. At the end of a pair of Dynaudio Heritage Specials, it’s absolutely magical!
I agree - the SN3 can be fantastic with right speakers.
to me the best experience was with the Harbeth M30 - incredible open and powerfull
Its simply that the attraction of the amazing light show of the Nait 50 is causing the flood of SN3 for sale. I cannot understand why nobody has commented on that. If you read the Nait 50 thread its clear its lighting up the lives of so many of the faithful.
I will get my coat…
the nait50 is an extreme luxury invest.
Super puristic and industrial art vor naim fan boys like me.
I would never switch back to an SN3 even if this one is more versatile and powerfull.
If other Music lovers would invest in an Integrated Amp like the NAit 50 is not easy to answer.
Business wise it`s by far not as attractive than offering upgradable high end equipment like SN3 222 etc…
With other words - I don`t believe Naim likes the idea of reducing boxes
I think they like the idea of reducing sales less. Thus the Uniti, Muso and streaming preamps that almost completely fill their lower range of products now.
Which, let’s be honest, is all the hifi 90% of people ever need available in that section of the range. Once you get to 200 Series it’s in to the high ticket bracket quickly.
I’d love to fund a 300 Series system and would happily live with it but one would imagine for many it’s beyond reach.
The current affordability opportunities for previous generation products is probably better than ever including a number of light use demo or sealed box units in dealer stock now available well below what they would have cost only a matter of months ago.
It is not simply a case of the separates being “beyond reach.” Very few people want them any more. A couple of anecdotes:
First. While I was at my dealer picking up my NAIT 50, we got to discussing products in general. He said that he sell lots of the Muso items and the Uniti line, active speakers by KEF etc., but the Naim separates are all special order (by way of comparison, he did have on display lots of turntables, lots of B&W, Totem, KEF etc. I got the impression that all separates are a difficult sell, and Naim in particular (added to the fact that I am in Canada, where Naim is not at all price competitive).
Second. I was at a friends new place the other day, where the general decor was definitely ‘cost no object’ and high end. It was a very attractive interior design, but what struck me, was that there was no hi-fi, stereo system, speakers, CDs, to be seen anywhere in the whole house. All his and wife’s music is by streaming only via one of the TVs (with its speakers of course) or one of the computers or iPads. Not what those here would choose, but the way of the future?
It is maybe a different topic.
I just believe the NAIT50 is not for everyone because it is super puristic. If you do not know NAIM, you would not buy - right?
no upgrade option
no streamer
no remote
no display
no modern features
no SUB
but pretty sound and great aesthetics…
All in one systems like atom etc. will find his place much easier into living rooms because invest is acceptable and features are great. If the Sound is that relevant I would question for at least 70% buyers.
The SN3 is entry level for separates - he builds the bridge to more expensive seperates and this is good for bounding with new clients.
Of course there are much more Clients for cheaper gear.
inho for NAIM this doesn`t matter so much as long they sell 10% high margin separates and the production line is able to manage all categories.
and yes - the SN3 is great but has a lot of competition out there.
the NAIT50 Competition is maybe more in the singel-ended category and niche?
just my opinion
Well, I just wonder what exactly is so super purist about the Nait 50?:))
It’s not separates (as in a purist SQ approach) but an integrated and even has a phono? It’s looks, cuteness, design&nostalgia in spades, and convenience - ok, as for the lack of remote (if that counts as purist?) I think it‘s an actual pain and not giving you anything in sound, it’s only a nostalgia penalty!
And the N50 competition (in performance level not cuteness and nostalgia) costs 2-3 times less. Does it make you want it less? Well, not me at least.
The SN3 can be an entry level for some but an arrival happy place after separates for many. Not saying the N50 couldn’t be the same … but not sure it’s what drives the hype at this stage at least?