I wrote “Irrelevant, however, if you don’t like the direction in which their ears take them” which is pretty clear. It depends on what the “you” (as in “one”) likes.
So: relevant for you you, not relevant for me you.
I’ve never liked Linn electronics (despite owning some) for example, or been that impressed by DCS or Vitus etc. Others may be. That’s entirely their prerogative, but doesn’t mean Naim have to time their product releases to coincide with the frequency or timing of others.
Just looking back at the original announcement, it mentions ‘two new audio solutions’. The grey Star and Arias is one, but what’s the other? Or do the Star and Aria count as two? Maybe the other is Focal rather than Naim.
Anyway, I shall ask Richard to close this thread later today as what’s come has come, and I don’t want this to become a let’s moan at Naim thread. There have been too many of those and there is enough negativity in the world without more on here. If anyone wishes to make any earth shattering and ideally positive contributions, get them in quickly!
From a marketing perspective making a significant announcement at one of the most important industry related events seems as good a time as any. The ones they’ve made we’re all aware of don’t leave anyone (on here at least) jumping out their seats to drive down to their local dealer.
I’m also thinking in the 3rd person here, I’m adequately happy with existing investments in both Naim and Focal products, but someone hitting the brands with a fresh set of eyes and ears and looking at the other options coming in from equivalent brands, may take their interest elsewhere.
I certainly hope for their collective ongoing success and future growth, hopefully one that appeals to new customers and addresses customer needs with forward thinking products.
Meaning those attending the event as a vendor will be making announcements around new products, that’s what the industry news suggests at least, significance will be defined by your own interest and expectations to an extent.
Strikes me that Naim had no new product ready to launch but marketing said “we HAVE to put something in to Munich….ideas anyone?” Hence the (albeit low level) hype from marketing about a repainted box. Frankly if you have no product just shut up….
Expected sales of a grey star?.
Well anything can happen but if I was a Naim dealer I’d want them on a sale or return basis……
If they would have something around the corner, even if 3-4 months away it would make much sense to publish this around this event or at least around it if they want to avoid the crowded release period. It’s tough competition out there… To make a statement on ash grey Star just makes it look silly in comparison to the market and competition.
Not really sure what you are saying here but, since I own both I am certainly not saying they are not quality. Just making a joke about the whole grey thing.