Always worth checking the obvious.
The other thing to try is the 555 on the CDX2, if you still use it that is, though I’d go full Fraim first at least on the CDX2 if you haven’t already, it really appreciates it.
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One problem is the excessive use of superlatives by some people upgrading their systems - as has been noted, one person’s night and day difference is someone else’s minor change, also we all have different concepts of value for money when it comes to improvement in sound.
I hope the de-stressing etc suggested by others give dividends, otherwise if you bought from a dealer absolutely engage them. Failing that I’d be inclined to consider cutting my losses and returning or selling on the 555 and powerline and looking for an alternative approach to upgrade.
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Hi Yeti. Thanks for your reply, but I’m a bit confused as you can imagine. Several people have said combination 555/272 and now also you. What is the meaning of this? I bought the 555 to give the 272 a boost and thus the whole system a boost, not for my CDX2. My CDX2 is now connected to the XPS, which then goes back into the 272/555 and the sound source is finally the NAP250…Okay, do you understand?
Has the OP said what his rack/support is?
This is crucial.
A 555DR (or any major Naim component) will take weeks if not months to burn in/run in.
I would leave the system playing Radio 4 HD for 24 hours a day for a week or three on an appropriate volume - i.e. as high volume as possible without disturbing anyone (which could mean zero volume some of the time).
To misquote @whitedragem - get the electrons flowing through those electronics… 
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Maybe the 272 was close to maxed out already … NDS or ND555 using the 555PS, with a 282 or upwards would be my suggestion. Convert CDX2 to transport.
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I assume you mean Fraim rack? What would that give me? Besides, I don’t think I have room for it. Here is my setup
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Yikes - you need a better rack for the excellent system you have.
Get Naim Fraimlite or better Naim Fraim, or a Quadraspire Q4 or better - depending on what country you in live you can get best value often on locally made hifi support/rack brands.
And they are often available second hand in good condition.
It will reduce microphony (i.e. vibrations in the components) and give the hifi a stable platform to work on.
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Fraim is the icing on the cake, but as long as it’s all rigid, I’ve known great sounding systems sited on much worse…
One of the reasons for stating CDX2 / 555PS rather than NAC 272 / 555PS is based on the “Source First” principle, which is;
- Source
- Amplifier
- Loudspeakers
Ensuring that you have the best possible source into your system.
DG…
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Hi CrazyRiver
I have to say that the 272 sounds absolutely fantastic, it did with the XPS and I intend to achieve more with the 555. I think it’s also me as a listener who has become critical, I’m sure the 272 can keep up here. Many people also talk about a burn in on the 555, I have to be open to that.
Great - we don’t have a problem
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Okay JimDog. I will consider that
However, I don’t think it’s the decisive factor in this case with the sound. I think my devices are stable, everything is level. My cables are separated with signal paths and power at a suitable distance. When it comes to distance between devices, Fraim is no better
What Fraim will give you - or any suitable rack - is space for proper cable dressing. Looking at your photo, I suspect the cables will be pushed up against each other, the wall, and the back of the shelves. A Naim system will not perform as well as it should like that, especially when you have large power supplies and Burndies.
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Okay Chris, I listen…
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I’m looking in particular at the bundle of cables in the corner. Ideally you want enough space for cables not to touch each other, and especially the very sensitive line level cables should be clear of mains power cables. Also search the forum for an explanation of how to form and connect a Burndy cable correctly. It will all seem a bit weird when you read it, but it does help.
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Okay, Chris and Jim.
Regarding the downward order of my boxes. Do you agree that it’s best with Nac and cdx at the top, and xps, nap and 555 at the bottom?
I think the order of your boxes is good. Maybe try the power amp on the bottom shelf. That keeps speaker cables out of the way a little more, and helps to keep Burndies off the floor and hanging free.
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A couple of points. I think those who are telling you to put the 555PS on the CD player on the basis of ‘source first’ are ignoring the fact that the 272 is your primary source - for streaming. So I would just concentrate on the streaming system for the time being I.e. put the 555 on the 272 and keep playing it. I think it will probably need more to settle down.
You probably do need to improve your system support.
Psychology - if you are stressed it will sound worse. Your choices have been the right ones and it will all come together in the end. However, you are expecting a massive improvement - truth be told at the level you are already at what you will get are real but subtle improvements. And they are the changes that you probably won’t hear if you are worrying away at what is happening.
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The OP has mentioned that the system already sounds fantastic. The biggest gripe seems to be that it was already too fantastic before the latest investment. Some of us upgrade to a high level because 272 level just isn’t good enough … for us … maybe the OP has found his nirvana … or maybe he needs a big re-think and a big further investment in financing, planning, supporting and maximising the system.
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