Hi,
I have been running a NAC152XS, NAP180, a Wiim Ultra for streaming and a separate Audiolab 8000DAC and CDX for a while now. This is connected to a pair of B&W 707S2s and QED cabling. Im considering upgrading but not sure whats best to target first… Im thinking about a Flatcap XS or maybe just replacing other components depending on what`s advised.
Any ideas would be wonderful 
Hi, some questions, there seems to be no vinyl replay involved, and has the NAP180 (also the preamp) been serviced already? Do you just want to take one step, or will you be building a new system, and at what budget? This will help to give you better recommendations.
It always helps to know your budget, and if you are looking secondhand or only for new items plus any other restrictions like space etc. Do you stream or play CDs the most? Are there any components that you don’t want to change?
Bruce
You probably know that when the NAC152XS was launched in 2009, power amp wise, Naim suggested it was partnered with a NAP155XS or a NAP200.
With your NAP180 you are very close to the NAP200.
Your thought of a Flatcap XS makes sense to me with its outputs on upgrade 1 and upgrade 2 of the NAC152XS. I suspect you would be delighted with this amp upgrade.
Chris
Probably around £3k at present, maybe a little more if the right solution comes up… I listen to CD`s mostly with a little streaming when I wish to listen to some FLAC files. Not sure on components, id change it all if its worth while
Sure, i had the NAP180 before the 152XS so figured i`d partner that as i do like the sound of the olive. But then again I have not listened to a more modern setup so i`m not entirely sure what i would like 
I’d be inclined to look for a used Atom HE, and the cable to your NAP180. When the latter has been serviced that is, otherwise send it out or look for a 200-DR.
IMO you can’t beat that in VFM right now and it’s just two boxes, one can he hidden away even. I would also recommend using Naim’s own NACA5 speaker cable in a 4m plus length, many available second hand, otherwise new Linn K20 can be a decent starting solution.
Some value also in selling off the other components or using them for a second system.
I was pretty much going to suggest the same as @daddycool. You get very decent one-box replacing the WiiM the pre and the DAC. The 180 should be fine but an Atom HE plus 250 is the basis for a very good and simple system. NACA5 definitely worthwhile; you can often find lengths secondhand.
The other way to go might be 82/180, or plus a HiCap.
Finally I have actually heard those speakers in S2 or S3 versions, not sure which. My brother has them in an office second systrm with a bit of a mixed bunch of new and old components, mostly Arcam. Have to say it all sounded rather grim. Muddy and a bit ‘clumpy’ with dull thuddy bass and not much sparkle. Lots of caveats including the speakers being on improvised stands but just maybe try some alternatives at a dealer?
Sure, Darren at Class A did the service on the NAP180 last year so that`s all good for now. Ideally not having to build a full system, just upgrading it and making the next leap… Budget probably around £3k for now.
Id prefer to stick to separates, i’m not really an ‘all in one’ person
Speakers i may change but i have had them connected to my ‘other’ system and they sounded supurb, they don’t sound too bad on this one…
Then maybe look at an 82 or 282?
Bruce
It`s an option for sure… Tempted on a Flatcap XS… Would pre-stage be the first thing to look into?
For that money, you could get 82/HC/250
Probably, but the CDX benefits from an external PS too. Depends how much of your listening is CD perhaps, and easy to try one in a different places if you buy one.
Bruce
How about a lovely pre-owned NAC72.
Nah, it’s not where i’m wanting to go to… But thanks.
As others are saying - better pre then, pick up a used 282 and Hicap DR?
Longer term could sell 180 for a 250DR (which are very cheap nowadays) for a great upgrade. Or you could get a 200DR which would power a 282 as well, save need for a HiCap.
282/200 should be doable for £3k.
Or go old school with an 82, even cheaper.
As some others are saying ;-))
It’s all just opinion isn’t it.
On our upgrade journey, looking back we could have saved some cash by jumping in bigger steps.
With olive and OC kit at low used prices there is just so much choice of how to move forward.
Ran this for a while - great combo