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NAIM Alternatives-from people who have switched.

I would really like to hear from some people that have swithced from NAIM (you poor sod you!) to something else and are happy with the switch and what worked.
I am currently using a Naim 52/250 combo and while I am happy with the sound overall, for reasons I won't go into other than to say I need a better shielded combo so I can enjoy my analog gear more than I do now.
Dealers near me have Ayre, CJ, Sim Audio, and Plinius. I have not heard any of these so I cannot say if I like them or they will work for me.
Thanks
Any good alternatives?
gerardff
lvw
4 posts
 
I had (still have, for that matter, gathering dust...) a NAIM NAP250, Hi-Cap, 72 Preamp and CDI player. I went to tube amps about 6 years ago, *huge* improvement in detail and realism, plus at least as good "pace" as the NAIM gear. (Electra-print single-ended amps, 28 watt monoblocks). I use a stepped attenuator for volume control. Since then, I've achieved further improvements with a Vecteur transport and Audio Aero Prima DAC, but the tube amps were the main gain.
seandtaylor99
1,262 posts
 
Only briefly heard an old nait, but I own a Densen b-100. Many in the UK have replaced Naim pre-power with Densen 200/300 and prefer the result. The only US dealer is in NY state, unfortunately. The densen has naim timing but better imaging and transparency in my limited experience.
Ag insider logo xs@2x
superhonestben
194 posts
 
I have owned a fair amount of Naim. I think it is good gear and has a sound. It gets more intense as you go up the line...could be good or bad depending on you tastes. I prefer Mcintosh tube gear..also has a sound,which I prefer overall.
I find it more musical...meaning it makes me want to listen to music more. Anyway it is all personal taste, as always trust your ears.
nickway
168 posts
 
I have never heard Naim amps.

But I can say that I love my Blue Circle. It beats my old Bryston 3B and Linn preamp.

Much more musical. Go for it.
Talk to Kevin at harmonia-audio.com he is really a great guy.

Happy Listening,
Nick
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