UnitiQute 2 as a preamp for NAIT XS 2

[tiredandemotional]

About six years ago, I got a good deal on an ND5 XS and a NAIT XS 2. Later, I added a WiiM Pro to bypass the ND5 XS’s 44 kHz/16-bit limitation and limited native streaming options. Recently, I had to send the NAIT back for a free service, and now the ND5 XS has begun showing Fault 35 (DSP) errors, despite being reset.

I’d appreciate any thoughts on:

1. Whether it’s worth sending the ND5 XS in for servicing given its age and limitations. While I’m not in a position to upgrade my system right now, I can manage the cost of a service if it’s worthwhile.
2. Using an unused UnitiQute 2 as a temporary DAC and preamp.

If using the UnitiQute 2 as a DAC and preamp would be a sensible stopgap, what specific cables would I need to connect it to the NAIT XS 2? I believe I’ll need at least a 4-pin DIN to 2 x RCA cable, but I’m not sure about the exact specifications. I assume the 4-pin DIN connects to the power amp input on the NAIT XS 2. Could you recommend cost-effective cable options?

Thank you in advance for any of your replies.

[Mike_S]

You could try the UQ2 again on its own, it’s a very nice little player. Do you have the manual? It’s the same connection to the XS2 that you would use for the NAP100, and there’s a setting you have to change on the UQ2, as well as putting the XS2 into power amp mode. The cable might be the one you use on the ND5?

[robert_h]

@tiredandemotional

power amp input

The simplest connection is 2rca → 2rca. Use the av input on the xs2, flip the av bypass switch to “on”. Select av on the front panel input. On the uq2, set speakers to none. Use the uq2 volume control.

[HungryHalibut]

Have you seen this old thread?

Fault 35 on an ND5 XS?

I was gone from home for 4 days. When I got back, it was written “Fault 35” on the screen of my ND5 XS. I rebooted it and it is now working fine. Has anybody seen this fault before? Is it just a temporary glitch, or could it be a sign of some bigger problem? It has been working fine since the reboot, so I am hoping it was just a temporary glitch.

I note you saying you’ve reset the ND5XS, but it may be worth leaving it off for say an hour, then turning it on and seeing what happens. The advice from Naim on the linked thread suggested it’s nothing to worry about.

[tiredandemotional]

robert_h

Thank you for your prompt and detailed reply.

I’ve attached an RCA to RCA from the UQ2’s Preamp Output to the AV In, bypassed the AV and set UQ2’s Speakers to none.

I’ve left the Preamp Out and Power Amp In link
plug fitted.

I’m pleased say it’s working!

I do have a Naim 5-pin DIN to RCA cable (NA-9110). Can I use it in place of the RCA to RCA cable connecting it to the AV In/Out DIN instead?

Thank you again, t&e

.

[robert_h]

@tiredandemotional

NA-9110

FYI this is the user ID of who made the cable at the factory.
Yes you should be able to use this instead, assuming it’s a din input cable ie wired for a source with rca output (as the 5 pin din has both input and output and both at the same time configurations). It’s most likely to be din input.

[tiredandemotional]

Mike_S and HungryHalibut

Thank you both for your suggestions.

I have reset my NAIT twice now but within an hour the error returns.

I have to decide if it’s worth paying for a repair or make do with my UQ2/NAIT XS2 setup.

robert_h, the cable works, thank you, though only one channel sounds due to a loose wire!

Kind regards, t&e

[HungryHalibut]

I’d have a word with Naim support. It’s odd that resetting clears the error and then it returns. It would be good if you could avoid spending the £500 or so on a repair.