do NAIM cdp sound good only with Naim components?

Naim claims that the best performance is obtained by run DIN to DIN in an all-Naim system. That may be true, but it also happens to be a good marketing ploy. However, Naim players are very good in non-Naim systems as well. I use a CDS3/555PS combination into all-tube system. This player sounds great to me.

My CDSii sounds great in a tube system. I have heard the 5 series sounds best with Naim gear but the reference series like CDX, CDS, etc, is more flexible. I have no experience with the 5 series.

what musizikat said. Synergy together but still musical with other systems.

I believe the Naim CDP's are the sweet-spot in the Naim product line. I have a CD5X with HICAP2 and it usually outperforms other CDP's at audio meets. It has bested the Talk Thunder 3.1b, Cary 306, and the Opera Droplet 5.0. It lost to Meitner, dcs stack and Dodson (with transport).

Jim

Thanks for your feeback guys. I've heard many times that Naim cdps work at their best with special naim interconnect,otherwise they loose something of their true potential.