I have now been listening for two weeks and can confirm that the N vi/300 has improved markedly over my previous Pioneer 757/AV2/250/175.
Picture and sound are much improved. Not saying it is better than the AV2, I would need to use a DVD 5 with the AV2 for a fairer comparison.
It certainly gives me what I need and enables the box count to be manageable.
My only disappointment is not being able to use the CD as a transport only into my 52 bypassing the N vi preamp.
Is there any mileage in using a separate DAC like the Benchmark to improve CD playback.
Thanks
Neil

Neil,

NVi/300?

Do you link the NVi to the NAP300s for Front L+R and for general stereo listening?

I didn't realise this was possible - is it a major improvement over standard L+R?

Yes, I do use the 300 for the Left and Right and the N vi for the centre and rears. Analogue audio out from the N vi to the tuner on my 52.

I have not compared the N vi front speaker outputs. The 300 made such a difference to my previous 250.2 for stereo playback via my LP12 that I have assumed it is far superior.

Neil

So does this require the 52 in between the nvi and the 300's. Reason I'm asking is I'm wondering whether a configuration of Nvi, NAP300, L+R speakers + surrounds is possible.

Obviously, I'd expect the keeping a NAC52 involved as pre-amp would be considerably better than the nvi's pre-amp abilities. But this could be viewed as an acceptable fewer box compromise whilst being able to drive speakers with more suitable amplification. Alternatively, it could also be viewed as the definitive Mullet system.

quote:

I'm wondering whether a configuration of Nvi, NAP300, L+R speakers + surrounds is possible.

With a special DIN-5 to 2 XLR-3 Y-cable, yes.

From what I gather a power amp can be connected direct to the n-Vi L+R pre-outs to increase power and music replay ability.

What is interesting is whether by further adding a Naim pre-amp does it benefit the n-Vi as a source?

If it's a current-model preamp, no, it shouldn't benefit or degrade the sound of the n-Vi–in fact, it should do absolutely nothing (if set to AV input with unity-gain bypass selected).

Would I be right that in suggested systems av1 the NAC 202 suggested upgrade would be an upgrade only because you can directly connect the dvd5 to it bypassing the av2.

I apologise if I have generated a full stop on this thread, we may have eventually asked the same question. Please carry on with your input regarding the extra performance gained by adding a power amp.

As you have a nac52 I was hoping you could answer whether there is any gain in using the n-Vi through th 52 more than just n-Vi + power amp.

If yes, then IF Naim make the superNait and IF it gets a DAC could it elevate the n-Vi as a source toward cd5x teritory aswell as giving huge stereo performance.

No–you still have the n-Vi preamp circuitry between the internal DAC and the output. Stick with a CD5x if you're after a proper dedicated CD player, with a proper two-channel preamp.

You will need to compare the n-Vi on its own with the n-Vi + SuperNAIT upon release.

A direct signal (unity-gain bypass AV input on NAC122x and above, or, direct connection to power amplifier) is preferable to another layer of circuitry (e.g., older Naim preamps, including NAC52) as fas as performance is concerned.

The n/vi is the best one box you can get, yes put a power amp with it if you must but its there to be what it is .All in one box no more no less.regards munch

A year ago it started with wanting to upgrade to a top home theatre system in order to improve music quality.

On my road to Damascus I discovered Naim and this was for me. The emphasis quickly shifted to music only and I made the decision for cd5x + nait 5i.

Since then I bought some live concert dvd's, I really like the live thing and find it real entertaining so I am buying more.

Why not get as much music from dvd as possible? I have heard the n-Vi and it truly is everything in a box and with the system I am comming from maybe years of enjoyment before the need for more, BUT I have never spent this money before on electronics and now have choices to make.

1. cd5x + nait5i and keep what I have for 5.1

2. n-vi

3. As I said I have never spent this money before which can also buy the dvd5 + nait5i and keep my amp for 5.1

You should visit your dealer–then much of this will make sense....

Hopefully I can get extended home demos.