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Naim CD5i a decent upgrade?

Hello everyone,

My current system right now consists of the Portal Audio Panache integrated amplifier, Primare D20 cd player, and Vienna Acoustics Bach speakers.

The system sounds great... But I feel like this CD player is just missing something. I don't know what it is really. The music sounds detailed, with a great sound stage, and no digital harshness. The CD player was a definite upgrade from my old Arcam, but I feel like it is not very musical. How would I describe this?

Anyway, I am on a college budget and was looking at the Naim CD5i. Would this complement my system and give me some more musical characteristics?

Any help would be appreciated.
rtilbury
Ag insider logo xs@2x
knownothing
1,583 posts
 
The Naim would sound different - more drive and bounce, less polish and detail. Up to you whether that sounds better...

PS - your college budget is different than mine was :-)
mlauner
250 posts
 
Naim is highly musical and will be an upgrade
aball
2,016 posts
 
I had a Primare CD31 for a while and thought it was very good despite the bass being a bit sluggish. If changing brands is ok, I recommend an Audio Aero Prima mk2. There is a silver one for sale here now, just like mine, and I think it is the best CD player you can buy in this price range.

I've had 12 CD players so far and know the 5i well. The 5i compared to the Prima seems to lack liquidity and resolve, which translates into less musicality. The Prima is an incredible buy - vacuum tubes are where it's at if you want to hear real music from a CD player...IMHO.

See my system page for lots more info on these and many others.

Arthur
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
the primaire is the better player. i think you're fine.
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