Naim CD5x versus CDX2

Look here:

http://forums.naim-audio.com/eve/forums?a=search&reqWords=CD5X+vs+CDX2

They are both fine machines. CD5x/Hicap comes close to a CDX2, but not quite. The same money can get a CDX2, around $3000 used. You can ad an XPS2 later to go to another level.

I went from a (new) CD5X to a (used) CDX2. Muzikat has pretty much nailed it. They are both fine machines. Unfortunately I did not get to do an a/b comparison between the two. A used CDX2 is absolutely worth the upgrade over the CD5X. I never did get to hear a 5x with flatcap, but once again, the common consensus on the Naim forum seems to be that a solo x2 beats a 5x/flatcap combo. Personally, I'm in the market for a used xps2 if I can buy one right. And do check out the Naim forum. You'll find answers to all your questions over there. Naim cdp's don't seem to be all that big here on Agon for some reason.

You guys have any problems with isolating these players. Some folks suggest the Naim units are more prone to vibration than other players and must be used in conjunction with some form of isolation platform, feet ETC.

You would have a hard time making them sound bad.
Good solid shelf, any quality audio rack, is all that's required.
If you want better:
Naim Fraim....pricey
Quadraspire...nice looking reasonably priced. I use that rack with a Nuence platform under my CDX2, seems to help.
I would not recommend Points or anything that elevates the original feet off the surface. Naim designed these feet to be optimum. The CDX2 feet are hard, CD5X are softer.

I agree with musicat and perfectionist cd5x very good but cdx2 noticeably better. XPS takes it to new level, more open and detailed. CDX and xps can be found used.