I’m currently using a Nait 5si with ProAc Tablette 10, and I’ve been thinking about an upgrade.
Right now I’ve found an XS2 at a pretty decent price, so I’m wondering if anyone here has gone from 5si to XS2 and can share how big the improvement was. I’ve also seen an SN2 and an XS3, but both are noticeably more expensive, so I’m hesitating.
My listening is mostly nearfield in a small room. In this kind of setup, is the upgrade from 5si to XS2 quite obvious, or more subtle?
I often see people pairing XS2 with ProAc Tab 10 and saying it’s a great match, which is very tempting. The XS2 also has more upgrade options compared to the 5si (e.g. adding a power amp later), which is another reason I’m considering it. Would love to hear from anyone with experience with 5si/XS2/XS3/SN2, especially with ProAc.
I had an XS2 for many years and it is a lovely amp, I did then add a Hicap Dr to it and this brought some more refinement to it.
It took a SN3 to displace it, but the XS2 was always a cracking amp in its own right.
Haven’t ever owned the Tablettes (often got close) and only ProAcs I’ve ever owned were Studio 100’s but not with Naim, so can’t help there I’m afraid.
I would assume however that the Tabs would respond with greater authority and drive when on the end of the XS2 when compared to its little brother.
What source are you using with this amp and speakers? Upgrading the amp will likely get more out of your speakers, but upgrading the source so that it at least matches the quality of your amp will give you a better system overall.
Thanks for your suggestion! I’m using a Holo Audio Spring 3 L2 R2R DAC as my source. I really like its warm, natural presentation. I also use it for my headphone system, so I’m not planning to change it soon.