Naim Nait 2 vs. Rega Mira 3

Not surprising. The Nait has a fantastically musical, addictive character, even if it is not especially linear or accurate. The Planet is also really good at the basics, though not that refined. I can't speak for the Mira 3 directly, but I bet that it is both more hi-fi (revealing, transparent, wider bandwidth, better imaging) and not as good at making the tune and the timing of the music go right to your head.

You may be finding that the greater refinement and transparency of both the new amo and cdp distract you from hearing what you really liked from the Nait/Planet combo.

My guess is that with your Apollo-Mira combination, you're having a hard time adjusting to a new level of detail. Your new equipment is not as forgiving as the old Nait and Planet.

I've owned both the Apollo and the Planet -- both are great, but the Planet is more rolled-off. It's not as accurate but with some (many?) CDs, it's easier on the ears.

I've also owned a Rega Mira 3 amp. I never really learned to love it. However, I replaced it with the lesser model in Rega's line, the Brio (the 2000 model, not the current Brio 3) -- and now I'm a lot happier with the sound. The Brio is not as convenient -- no remote control -- but it sounds (to my ears) more musical, less "electronic" than the Mira 3.

The Planet and Brio are in my current office system, driving a pair of Spendor S3/5s, usually at low levels -- very pleasing and musical, often so much so that I get distracted from my work.

So, I'd suggest you look for a used Brio -- if you can live without remote control, it might suit your taste more than the Mira. I'd keep the Apollo -- it partners nicely with the Brio. I'd also suggest you mate Rega with Rega rather than be tempted to mix-and-match Rega and Naim -- some have mixed the brands to their liking, but my experience suggests otherwise. My main system uses Naim (Nait 5i and CD5i) -- I hear audible brand synergy when you keep Naim with Naim and Rega with Rega.

If you do get a Brio but find you don't like it, you can re-sell it -- they rarely last too long on Audiogon.

I think it simply isn't what you're used to. Give yourself and your stereo some time to get to know each other before making snap judgements. The Naim and the Rega are very different amplifiers so you need to reacquainte yourself with your new sound. If in a month you don't like it, sell the Rega and get a 5i.

Arthur

I've heard the 5i and don't really like it. To me the Nait 2 sounds more natural and not as hi-fi. I do not want to admit that the Rega sounds more hi-fi because I like the company (I have a cdp and truntable/arm/cart from them) and their philosophy. The Nait 2 phono stage is just awesome for the money. I thought the same of the Rega when demoing it, but don't find it so great now. Crap.