I’m sans Naim gear currently after moving along a 5i & a Muso. A first-gen Unitiqute has come up locally & I’m considering using it in my office system.
Display is predictably dead, not a concern if I can use it for some basic functions. I don’t need wireless capability, it will be fed optical from an iMac primarily ( the Mac streams both Tidal & internet radio plus ripped CDs).
It appeals as it is now as a mini-Supernait… integrated amp plus DAC.
Q… will the Naim app be adequate to control it ?
And will it pair well with Castle Compact Column speakers?
You only need the screen for initial setup. Connecting to the network for example. After that the app does everything.
I am told you can sometimes see information on a screen that sppears to be dead by using a mobile phone camera to view it.
Can’t help with those speakers I am afraid. I had an original Qute for a while. It is a decent device but an Atom is better in every way if you can stretch to one.
On my Qute rev1, I did my set up about 12 years ago with the screen on, now the screen is dead since I can’t even remember.
I assume if you are using network cable without wifi configuration you should be ok, but my memory might be wrong.
I’m still using the Qute weekly with the Naim app.
Some new app functionalities won’t show up like the direct Play/Pause and volume at device selection screen, but it’s working well.
Replacing the screen yourself is not impossibly hard if you are decently handy. Screens available on a popular online auction site. I did it for my UQ2. Do read the instructions carefully several times before diving in.
Can confirm that it was a simple matter to get this working as I intend to use it even without the application. Just connected the Toslink cable from the iMac & used the remote to select the source.
Further update… the digital FM is impressive for both clarity & soundstage.
Speakers trialled so far are venerable Mission 70-II bookshelfs ( great sensitivity, have worked for several decades together with the Cyrus 2 ) & now Castle Chesters, 12GA 4m cables & 12GA jumpers)…
Also the USB connection is impressing with either an iPod Classic or an iPhone 4S.
Glad to hear!
To me if someone can live (or bypass with work around) with the first generation streamer, the UnityQute is by far one of the best deal you can get on the second hand market.
Amazing sound for the price (easily 1/3 of the original price).
Enjoy!!
