Naim UnitiQute - who's heard one?

I actually have the PS Audio Perfect Wave DAC with bridge in my main system, so I'm pretty familiar with the technology. The n-stream controller looks nice and seems to solve that problem nicely. I have an older pair of Paradigm mini monitors I can use if needed, but primarily would be using my AKG headphones if I got one. I could probably find a cheaper alternative, but the versatility and Naim brand are very attractive. Too bad I don't have a dealer within 400 miles.

Scott,

I don't have a Uniti or UnitiQute. I guess the answer to if it's a primary system or secondary system piece would best be answered by saying it depends on the person's budget. The Uniti is a Nait 5i, CD5i, and the other stuff in one box. My dealer and I couldn't tell the difference between the Nait 5i/CD5i combo and Uniti playing the same CD in the same room with the same speakers. There's a difference with the UnitiQute, as the power section is scaled back a bit, but it's not a huge difference. Tone Audio actually liked the UnitiQute better, not accounting for the price difference. I don't agree, but I guess it's possible.

The Nait XS and DAC should definitely sound better, as I like both pieces better individually. Haven't heard that combo directly against the Uniti though.

What's used as a primary system comes down to budget IMO. If you can afford the XS/DAC and don't need the extras and one box solution, that may very well be the better fit. They're different components, so it's not like comparing the 5i stuff with the Uniti.

Kbarkamian, thanks for the reply. Great info, especially the fact that the Uniti seemed as good as the 5 series combo.

I need to confirm it but I believe the Uniti also has an active pre which would distinguish it a bit from the Nait 5i which has a passive pre. I've always preferred active over passive with pres, at least within my budget.

I will be moving up from low end NAD gear so I'm hoping the Uniti will be enough of an upgrade but I have a feeling if I try the Nait XS/DAC combo I'll be in trouble.

It is my main system in a decent sized room. I had the Uniti and traded it in when the Qute was released. Same speakers used on both. There may be a little difference in presentation due to reduced wpc 50 vs 30 but the Harbeth's are 6ohm so I get about 45wpc from the Qute. If I ever did anything, I would get a more powerful amp as an upgrade as it's possible to switch off the amp section of the Qute. I don't really need the power as I don't listen at high levels. I'm pretty sure you won't be disappointed. If your in the USA, email me as I know of a dealer that has a MINT Qute second hand for a good price.

I am using the UnitiQute with Harbeth P3's in an office set up and the match is great.

For Christmas I moved the system into the family room so my wife could stream xmas music. The room is fairly big (22x26) and the combo had no problem filling the space with sound.

My only problem now is getting the damn thing back in my office - my wife has fallen in love with it