The Naim Supernait 3 Integrated Amplifier Review! I Did Not Expect THIS!

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  • Опубліковано 24 гру 2024

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  • @HiFiHuff
    @HiFiHuff  2 роки тому +15

    Thanks everyone! I hope you enjoy this one. You can see the full written review at the website: www.stevehuffphoto.com/2022/10/01/the-naim-supernait-3-it-has-a-soul/

    • @niklaswaller1917
      @niklaswaller1917 2 роки тому +1

      Have you ever tried Hegel H390?

    • @jonuiuc
      @jonuiuc 2 роки тому

      I'm not sure if you had commented on this combo, since you use the bigger Pass amps now. But would a Pass INT-25 do well enough to drive those Fleetwoods in a medium room to relatively loud levels?

    • @captainawasome8985
      @captainawasome8985 2 роки тому

      Ever tried Lejonklou or Linn? If you like Naim I'm sure you will like them.

    • @janulik9535
      @janulik9535 Рік тому

      Hello, I just purchased second hand xs2 and I love it. I thing for this obvious reason that it is not kind of amplifier that does some kind of show but it just wants to play the music right. This is how I see it. Actually I am challinging the bass because with my moderate speakers which I have at home some dificult orchestra passages with many chellos produces somwhat thick omph which is not nice so tommorow I am going to check for some speakers if they can play it nicely together with naim, lets see.

  • @MrBerry67
    @MrBerry67 2 роки тому +6

    Had my Naim SN3 for almost a year now - stunning - great sound and I love this amp

    • @cpg8000
      @cpg8000 2 роки тому

      What speakers are you pairing it with?

  • @alancrane4693
    @alancrane4693 2 роки тому +6

    Thanks for the Naim review 👍 Naim kit reviews are rare and a fantastic review highly enjoyed it. I to have a soft spot for Naim kit.

  • @OriginalgEd
    @OriginalgEd 2 роки тому +3

    Great decision (said another very happy SN3 owner!). Your comments on the sound very much match my own thoughts on the amp. I love it and don't expect to change it.

  • @AndreiKisel
    @AndreiKisel Рік тому +5

    Have my Supernait 2 for 7 years, never disappoints.

  • @Ricky-cl5bu
    @Ricky-cl5bu 2 роки тому +8

    I’ve naim Mac 202 , nap 200 , hicap power , ntsc power supply, and mm naim phono stage and dynaudio speakers and love it

  • @MrKimber58
    @MrKimber58 2 роки тому +4

    Tmr Audio is fantastic! Great people to do business with.

  • @martinsapsitis4292
    @martinsapsitis4292 2 роки тому +3

    Great informative review, with excellent crossreferencing of musical and amplification signatures.

  • @Sronsky
    @Sronsky 2 роки тому +1

    Very happy with your choice! Love the naim sound.

  • @MICHAELSMITH-fl7du
    @MICHAELSMITH-fl7du 2 роки тому +5

    The reason for the speaker connections odd placement is because Naim optimised the set-up and placement of the systems so that it was offset to the side in the listening room and not in what the Naim engineers found to be less optimal, the middle of the sound stage between the speakers.
    This was mostly back in the day when they omitted resistor networks in the output stages and instead used the speaker cable ( there own NAC-A4/NAC-A5 ) as stabialisation. They also had a minimum length of 3.5m with 5m consdered the sweet spot (11.5 to 16.4ish)ft.
    Having the system to the side also meant one had to loop-up the speaker cable in an S shape to take up the slack of the shorter cable run as they had to both be equal length.
    The modern Naim systems are more forgiving to set-up and cable choice.

  • @theheathster2
    @theheathster2 2 роки тому +25

    I go to hifi shows and hear things my Naim kit doesn’t do. But then I go home and hear the things that it does do, and I’m happy again!

  • @klaymoon1
    @klaymoon1 Рік тому +3

    Great review! I agree with you. I wish the next Superrnait will not have the balance dial. An input dial instead the balance dial will be awesome.

  • @stefanaliprantis5530
    @stefanaliprantis5530 2 роки тому +4

    For the most part I have always felt Naim communicates the emotional quality of music so beautifully, it really gets you involved in the recording. If you have not tried it I highly recommend augmenting the amp with the Hicap DR power supply. Nice review, I liked your points on the natural nature regarding imaging and soundstage as sometimes these amps are critiqued for this.

  • @13thnotehifireviews7
    @13thnotehifireviews7 2 роки тому +7

    I personally didn’t see issues with the crossed cables and balance knob as small design things, but more so in Europe, the leaving it on in an energy crisis with Russia etc. Also some people always worry about longevity in leaving things on which I think is a valid concern. I thought the Supernait 3 is equitable sound wise with the Hegel H390, the kinki studio ex-m1+ you reviewed too and nad m33. It does have lovely bass and insight and is a very resolving amp in easy to understand terms but it lacks the control, dynamics and scale of an amp like the Hegel

    • @letslearnenglish-xv1rk
      @letslearnenglish-xv1rk Рік тому +1

      You can reverse the interconnects going into the unit and then connect the speaker wires conventionally.

  • @chrishumphries7697
    @chrishumphries7697 2 роки тому +4

    Lovely to see this amp get a review as there is not a lot strangely. I have the SN2 which I find sounds the same as the SN3, but without the phono stage. There were some minor tweaks but the impact must be small. I am about to receive a pair of Zu Audio Dirty Weekend 6 speakers which I hope will just sing with the Supernait. Oh, and I think my only complaint with the the amp is the silly remote. I wish manufacturers would sell simple remotes with their simple amplifiers.

    • @ducmoto1975
      @ducmoto1975 2 роки тому +4

      the reason why there are not so many reviews about NAIM is simple. Naim doesn't push social medial influencers.

  • @CinemaDemocratica
    @CinemaDemocratica Рік тому +3

    If you flip the RCA interconnects (white for red) you can then connect the speaker cables conventionally and left will come out of left.

  • @marcgoldin8937
    @marcgoldin8937 2 роки тому +7

    Do you prefer the Naim over your Pass Labs mono blocks? Can you compare & contrast the sound signature of them? Thanks!

  • @audio_acoustic_engineering
    @audio_acoustic_engineering 2 роки тому +1

    I agree with what you said in my experience with the Naim Unity Atom + ELAC BS403. Agree agree agree.

  • @luckycharm4623
    @luckycharm4623 10 місяців тому +2

    The Supenait 3 is just an amazing integrated, so is the Supernait 2 ,if you see either one used at a a favorable price grab it!

  • @shkermanshahi
    @shkermanshahi 2 роки тому

    Thanks. Very nice review. Your show off of lifting the 31 lb was amazing as well😊

  • @shivmirchandani9723
    @shivmirchandani9723 2 роки тому +1

    Wonderful review !

  • @tonyhodgkinson4586
    @tonyhodgkinson4586 2 роки тому +3

    Density is the word I would use too, it what I heard when I first heard Naim.

  • @紅姬-k7n
    @紅姬-k7n 2 роки тому +3

    I have a lovely sound system with NAIMs set up and T+A speakers
    NDX2 + Supernait 3 + Criterion S 2000 CTL

  • @neilthompson7752
    @neilthompson7752 2 роки тому +5

    Just goes to show sometimes just keep it simple and not get drawn in by quirky looks....1 of the best Class AB amps for under 10k and that's before power supply's and power amp's, I got mine for a bargain before inflation went up right place right time..

  • @dougg1075
    @dougg1075 2 роки тому +3

    I love the look also. Kinda eighties

  • @henriksrensen3220
    @henriksrensen3220 2 роки тому +1

    I have always loved the Naim sound.
    Owned Naim classic series pre/power amplifiers for about 15 years before i upgraded to Gryphon amplification.

    • @Skyouu
      @Skyouu 2 роки тому

      Why did you leave Naim ?

    • @henriksrensen3220
      @henriksrensen3220 2 роки тому +1

      @@Skyouu i owned the nac 282/hicap, nap 200. Great sound.
      But I upgraded to the integrated amp Gryphon Diablo 120. The gryphon also plays with PRAT, but a little more like live sound, and also better finesse (subtlety)

    • @Skyouu
      @Skyouu 2 роки тому +1

      @@henriksrensen3220 currently, looking for a amplifier for my Triangle Comètes 40th anniversary edition. The 5si (or XS3) could be my future buy...
      Edit: I'm looking reviews on the Triangle/Naim matching

    • @henriksrensen3220
      @henriksrensen3220 2 роки тому +1

      @@Skyouu the xs is a great amp. And you can upgrade with flatcap power supply

    • @Skyouu
      @Skyouu 2 роки тому

      @Henrik Sørensen do you think the power supply is a nice benefit ? are they like some power conditioner or its a stock of energy with capacitors?

  • @georgedomse
    @georgedomse 2 роки тому +8

    How would the Supernait 3 compare to the Kinki EX-M1 you also reviewed?

    • @goahead3995
      @goahead3995 2 роки тому +2

      I also own the Kinki EX-M1+ because of Steve's review and I absolutely love it.

  • @bertramlefarge69
    @bertramlefarge69 7 місяців тому +3

    I'm 'slumming it' with a XS-2 but what a great amplifier. I moved up from Creek Evolution 50A, Nait 5i, Kandy 3 At £1.5k for an integrated, diminishing returns really start kicking in. Spend more on source and speakers imho.

    • @markallenster
      @markallenster 4 місяці тому

      XS-2 is a great amp!!! You are far from "slumming it".

    • @r423fplip
      @r423fplip 4 місяці тому

      Great ! It’s far from that.

  • @gasolin75
    @gasolin75 2 роки тому +5

    did you change your dynaudio heritage special ?

  • @pietervg5541
    @pietervg5541 2 роки тому +5

    Had the Naim Supernait 3. Changed it for Rega Aethos. Very very happy now 😊

    • @erics.4113
      @erics.4113 Рік тому +2

      I'm eyeing the Aethos. I like this sound signature: full prat type.. I absolutely adore the rega brio but haven't heard a thing above that. I'm looking supernait 3 or Aethos as my next move but can't hear both - any input is appreciated!

    • @bharatsodha3078
      @bharatsodha3078 11 місяців тому +1

      @@erics.4113 go for Rega it has lovely natural sound

    • @Chimpsfingers
      @Chimpsfingers 2 місяці тому

      @@erics.4113 what did you go for?

  • @Vinylbop
    @Vinylbop 2 роки тому +9

    Wait a minute! Did I see Spotify at 16/44.1 on the Dcs?

    • @Skyouu
      @Skyouu 2 роки тому

      Spotify hifi ? We are waiting for too long...

  • @blp9724
    @blp9724 2 роки тому +8

    How does it compare to Pass?

    • @HiFiHuff
      @HiFiHuff  Рік тому +2

      The lowest cost Pass integrated is the INT-25 and that is a Class A amp. The Naim is a class B amp. Completely different types of sound. The Pass pieces cost more and will have a much larger soundstage, be more holographic, more spatial, richer and with more depth. The SN3 will not be as refined but will have more punch and kick.

  • @GentielioGaming
    @GentielioGaming 2 роки тому +4

    Would you recommend the supernait 3 with dynaudio heritage specials instead of the pass labs? Would the naim be plenty in watts for a middle sized room?

    • @DBravo29er
      @DBravo29er 2 роки тому +2

      Can't answer the first question. But the Naim will be plenty for medium sized rooms and speakers at least 87dB sensitivity. The original Supernait was tested by Stereophile to be 90wpc into 8 ohms and 140wpc into 4ohms. This won't be any weaker than that... likely a little stronger. Kinda like many tube amps, it sounds much more big and powerful than the wattage rating suggests.

    • @KarelKannel
      @KarelKannel 2 роки тому +2

      I am using SN3 with Dynaudio Focus 160, room size is 40 m2. SN3 can deliver current for Dynaudios. In Sweden there is a audio shop dedicatec to Naim + Dynaudio. For comparision Musical Fidelity M6 500i sounded thinner, though it has a lot of more power.

    • @stuartbridger5177
      @stuartbridger5177 2 роки тому +2

      I have the SN1 with 20 year old Dynaudio Audience 50's. A stunning combination, so I would expect the heritage to work with the heritage specials

    • @GentielioGaming
      @GentielioGaming 2 роки тому

      @@stuartbridger5177 Great! The Heritage Special is a more difficult load but if it has a lot of current i guess 80 watts will be enough. Strangely i don't like these speakers with powerful class d amps. It seems they like class a or a/b with ab torodial transformers. Does anyone know what the VA rating is of these transformers is in naim gear? They usually don't mention this in tech specs.

    • @MrShaggy789
      @MrShaggy789 Рік тому

      ​@@GentielioGamingSupernait 3 is 400va

  • @Gez492
    @Gez492 2 роки тому +4

    The super Nait is a very special integrated, I'm glad you get it. Add the HiCap DR power supply and it elevates the performance to another level.

    • @ericthemauve
      @ericthemauve 2 роки тому +1

      No, it really doesn't.

    • @alancrane4693
      @alancrane4693 2 роки тому

      Hicap or supercap?

    • @stuartbridger5177
      @stuartbridger5177 2 роки тому +1

      It does for the earlier generation of Supernait. The SN3 already has DR technology in its internal PSU, so I believe the addition of a HiCap DR is not so significant. I have the HiCap DR on my SN1 and the upgrade was a big step up.

    • @DBravo29er
      @DBravo29er 2 роки тому +2

      HiCap DR on my SN3 was an obvious uplift. So worth it!

    • @Gez492
      @Gez492 2 роки тому +2

      @@DBravo29er same here, SuperCap DR is over kill though

  • @scslite5206
    @scslite5206 2 роки тому +3

    Great review! I have the SN3 and you're spot on with everything you said. I'm a tube guy and swore I would never have an SS amp until I heard the SN3. Naim is also known to be finicky with cables and such. I noticed you did not use any DIN inputs which does have an audible difference from RCA. Also all the cons are just the Naim way of things which is always going against the grain and can be a bit off putting for others but the final results speak for themselves. Also, I would encourage, if you get the chance, to plug in a HiCap DR and it's a night and day difference. The soundstage that is somewhat not expansive without it suddenly just opens up even more and all the other goodness that you've experienced gets even more bumped up quite a few notches across the board.

    • @DBravo29er
      @DBravo29er 2 роки тому +4

      I love my SN3 + HiCap DR with full WitchHat Morgana loom (Phantom speaker Cables and Spectre preordered 😉)!

    • @scslite5206
      @scslite5206 2 роки тому +1

      @@DBravo29er I hear ya! I also have the Phantoms and love them. Couldn’t quite commit to the Spectre just yet. Congrats!

    • @DBravo29er
      @DBravo29er 2 роки тому +1

      @@scslite5206 The Spectres are definitely more $$$ than I expected. I've been super happy with the Phantoms, and can return the Spectres if I don't find them worth it,

  • @klaymoon1
    @klaymoon1 2 роки тому +1

    Great review. A side question, how did you connect dCS Lina to Naim? I thought it's a headphone only system. But, I suppose it can be used as a DAC without a volume control?

  • @jamessnuggs
    @jamessnuggs 2 роки тому +2

    Been looking at this one for a while as well as the Luxman 509X. Which one would you give the edge to?

    • @connorduke4619
      @connorduke4619 2 роки тому

      Luxman - sweeter top end.

    • @DemsAreScum
      @DemsAreScum 2 роки тому

      @@connorduke4619 What do you mean by sweeter top end? Less aggressive ?

  • @MODAC
    @MODAC 2 роки тому +4

    I own the Nait 5si. They are less than half the price of the Supernait 3, but I am very impressed with how it performs. Very similar qualities to what you describe. Does the torrordial transformer in yours hum at all? It’s a known issue in some Naim gear. I found a simple solution however.

    • @freakin13guy
      @freakin13guy 2 роки тому +2

      Could you please share the solution you came up with for the Hum? My Nait amp exhibits the same issue. 🙏🏼

    • @anjovandijk9797
      @anjovandijk9797 2 роки тому

      However?

    • @DBravo29er
      @DBravo29er 2 роки тому +2

      DC blocker fixed the hum. It's from DC on the AC line.

    • @anjovandijk9797
      @anjovandijk9797 2 роки тому +1

      @@DBravo29er is it possible that a teddy pardo power supply can fix this issue as well

    • @DBravo29er
      @DBravo29er 2 роки тому +2

      @@anjovandijk9797 Not this issue. Teddy Pardo's are usually there to create DC power from AC. I actually use a VERY large Topaz Ultra isolation transformer (5.2kVa), which blocks DC by default. The bigger iso doesn't hinder dynamics. But it's 111lbs.

  • @ianjones487
    @ianjones487 2 роки тому +2

    How does the Naim compare to the Rogue Audio Pharaoh 2?

  • @goahead3995
    @goahead3995 2 роки тому +4

    "It has balls. It sounds huge".🤣

  • @Schleich-l7x
    @Schleich-l7x 18 днів тому

    Can you connect cable lugs to the amplifier? It only seems to accept banana plugs for the speakers.

  • @gregstevenson7401
    @gregstevenson7401 2 роки тому +6

    There really is something about NAIM that's hard to dislike. I would use the word "LUSH". That said, I sold my Atom and Star because of room correction software. Naim are old school and in mho refuse to follow the curve. My new Lyngdorf sounds amazing but I would swap back to Naim in a heartbeat if they just got their heads out of their asses. Naim would be the best sounding bar none (for my slightly warm taste) if I could integrate my sub and correct for my f*cked up room. Love NAIM and that gorgeous midrange but they need to click heels to the 21st century

    • @juicy_clams
      @juicy_clams 2 роки тому

      Lyngdorf are top dogs right now for sure.

    • @amitpatel-gy3tu
      @amitpatel-gy3tu 2 роки тому +5

      I respect Naim for their point of view that there’s 2 solutions to the problem: room correction software, or just correcting your room 😅 . If you like the sound of your hifi that’s the main thing. 👍🏽

  • @rickg8015
    @rickg8015 2 роки тому +6

    There’s a reason the late Charlie Haden (renowned jazz bassist) owned Naim..

    • @ianmcsherry5254
      @ianmcsherry5254 2 роки тому +1

      One of the best Jazz nights I ever experienced, when he brought his Liberation Music Orchestra here to Edinburgh.

  • @johnsimmons5056
    @johnsimmons5056 2 роки тому +1

    What are those weird speaker terminals ? Besides them being crossed it does not appear the speaker terminals will work with cables that have spades ? Is this correct ?

    • @DBravo29er
      @DBravo29er 2 роки тому +1

      They are actually silver banana receptacles. You are correct, spades will not work.

    • @MODAC
      @MODAC 2 роки тому +1

      Not a new thing. Naim has made amps like this for years.

  • @craigosterberg5045
    @craigosterberg5045 2 роки тому +1

    Thanks

  • @bencausey
    @bencausey 2 роки тому +1

    Excellent

  • @martinmbokazi8372
    @martinmbokazi8372 2 роки тому +3

    Which amplifier is better Naim Supernait 3 vs Kinki Studio Ex - M1 or M1 plus ?

    • @erics.4113
      @erics.4113 Рік тому +1

      The one you like the sound of better 😜

    • @erics.4113
      @erics.4113 Рік тому

      I think these two would be a strange cross-shop unless you were considering quite different presentations

    • @Stephenwongdirectimaging
      @Stephenwongdirectimaging Рік тому

      Naim is way way better. I bring my s400 mark ii to local shop test out m1+ and naim vocal , bass more inpact even just 80w just better

    • @frontarts
      @frontarts Рік тому +1

      ​@@Stephenwongdirectimaging ever tried hegel?I lean to hegel a little bit between these two amps. But I haven't heard naim supernait3(no local dealer provide that service).Thanks.

  • @Michael-xz1nk
    @Michael-xz1nk Рік тому +2

    Any issues with transformer hum as some Naim owners report?

    • @DH-og5yr
      @DH-og5yr 6 місяців тому +1

      Naim fans are like Apple fans. It’s a feature not a flaw.

    • @Michael-xz1nk
      @Michael-xz1nk 6 місяців тому

      👍

  • @villageroma
    @villageroma 2 роки тому +9

    British audio gear is on another level really.. pair that amp with Harbeth speakes and you are in heaven

    • @neilthompson7752
      @neilthompson7752 2 роки тому +2

      Or Dynaudio even though it's Danish dynamics in buckets...

    • @DBravo29er
      @DBravo29er 2 роки тому +5

      Harbeth, Graham, Dynaudio, KEF, DeVore, AudioNote, even KLH V or Wharfedale Linton. All sound superb with the SN3.

    • @thebestoffools
      @thebestoffools 2 роки тому +5

      @@DBravo29er I auditioned the SN3 at a local store with a pair of ATC speakers. It was a great match. I bought the speakers. Now I want the Naim. :)

    • @DBravo29er
      @DBravo29er 2 роки тому +2

      @@thebestoffools ATC makes some absolutely killer speakers, as well. 👍🔥

    • @ducmoto1975
      @ducmoto1975 2 роки тому +4

      I bought ne naim to drive my klipsch cornwall iv
      but this amp works so much better with my vintage spendor bc1

  • @GentielioGaming
    @GentielioGaming 2 роки тому +2

    What would be a next step up in naim after a supernait 3?? Or maybe not a next step up but more power without downgrading from a supernait 3??

    • @Michael-xz1nk
      @Michael-xz1nk 2 роки тому +1

      HiCap DR pow

    • @Michael-xz1nk
      @Michael-xz1nk 2 роки тому +1

      power supply

    • @GentielioGaming
      @GentielioGaming 2 роки тому

      @@Michael-xz1nk cost of this seperately?

    • @Michael-xz1nk
      @Michael-xz1nk 2 роки тому +1

      I believe its $2,859 in the US. I do not own one but a friend does and raves about it.

    • @Michael-xz1nk
      @Michael-xz1nk 2 роки тому +1

      As always, try at home to be sure its for you.

  • @chasehatton3691
    @chasehatton3691 Рік тому +1

    Naim has it's American hifi sound equivalent in Boulder. Really quite similar in fact.

  • @samgates2059
    @samgates2059 2 роки тому +3

    I guess Naim still puts the speaker connections backwards. I have a Nait from 1985 that is the same way.

    • @alancrane4693
      @alancrane4693 2 роки тому +1

      Same here on NAP 300 DR. If you stand behind the amplifier the channels are in correct order.

  • @cardinalfang7725
    @cardinalfang7725 2 роки тому +1

    Like you I've seen the brand and read countless positive reviews of their components, but never heard them. Always liked the look. Supernait 3 and the Cary Audio SLP-05 preamp, neither had center detent positions for the balance. You reviewed the Cary Audio SLI-100 integrated, did that have a center detent for the balance? I can't understand why manufacturers would go away from that.

  • @thomasvalentine6588
    @thomasvalentine6588 2 роки тому +6

    Is the Naim going to replace your Enleum amp?

  • @steveee2511
    @steveee2511 2 роки тому +4

    i have the naim nait 5si for the price it beats amps in the 3 or even 4 k price range a cool feature is that with remote control the volume whell moves from alone by presing volume up or down .

    • @alancrane4693
      @alancrane4693 2 роки тому +1

      Nice one 👍 I'm fortunate to live in the UK so Naim kit is cheaper over here.

    • @r423fplip
      @r423fplip 2 роки тому

      I have a topping LA90, hard to beat at any price.

    • @Skyouu
      @Skyouu 2 роки тому

      Which speakers do you use with the 5si ?

    • @Skyouu
      @Skyouu 2 роки тому

      I ask you that, because I'm looking on the 5si and the XS3 for my Triangle comète 40 th anniversary edition. I don't really know if the 5si could be efficient on them, those speakers need current.. I think the XS3 is more capable...but I don't know for the 5si with his 2x60w/300VA...

    • @steveee2511
      @steveee2511 2 роки тому

      @@Skyouu not sure are they stands 6 oms for 6 ohms like the evoke 20 im not sure on watts i know only for 8 ohms its 60W for 4 ohms like the sonus fabers 90 or 95 W

  • @milesdufourny4813
    @milesdufourny4813 Рік тому +1

    Unfortunately, during my audio equipment buying days I've never heard any NAIM amplifiers as there aren't any dealers here in Connecticut.

  • @watchnut
    @watchnut 2 роки тому +6

    Review the Accuphase E280 if you want integrated amp bliss.

  • @johnshore3095
    @johnshore3095 Рік тому

    How does this Supernaitbcompare to the Rotel Michi X3 ?

  • @georgeho8997
    @georgeho8997 2 роки тому +2

    The balance dial is for room tuning. You should do it by listening instead of being "tricked by the click".

    • @HiFiHuff
      @HiFiHuff  2 роки тому +6

      Kind of hard when the listening position is 8 feet away :) I would still prefer a click, personally.

  • @richardsaila8073
    @richardsaila8073 2 місяці тому +1

    SN3 for rock and roll, Hegel for bass music, Accuphase for the rest.

  • @nealandkriz
    @nealandkriz 2 роки тому +1

    I had an exhibition model Supernait 2 for about 2 weeks and compared it to other amps such as Bryston B135/2 or more affordable ones like Atoll IN 200. It definitely has better transient response/speed which I think is the reason for the PRAT impression it leaves on people. Kickdrums and Snares especially sounded fast and palpable. It has a bit of a noise floor though, which could be noticeable with more efficient speakers.
    It’s built like a tank. Knocking on the enclosure sounds like a very thick dampened cast-iron pan. I really warmed up to the aesthetics, too. Wish I could have kept it.

    • @sarahX..
      @sarahX.. 2 роки тому

      Apparently Naim amps are fine on high efficiency speakers but one needs the appropriately matched Naim speaker cables.

    • @xstensl8823
      @xstensl8823 Рік тому

      what did you get?

    • @nealandkriz
      @nealandkriz Рік тому +1

      @@sarahX.. I had those Naim cables, I guess they want you to use them because of capacitance.

  • @sweemechai
    @sweemechai 2 роки тому +1

    Hope you will review the Swiss Stenheim Alumine 3 speaker.

    • @DBravo29er
      @DBravo29er 2 роки тому

      Those sound INCREDIBLE

  • @piker3000
    @piker3000 2 роки тому +1

    I have to check out the Supernait 3 to see if it tops my hegel h390.

    • @alphaniner3770
      @alphaniner3770 2 роки тому +2

      Jay's iyagi did some comparisons between these two brands a few years ago iirc - you can check that one (if you didn't do that already).
      - my bet is that both are perfectly fine amps - the sound signature is just different - and it will be a matter of personal taste - and of course possible pairing synergy (or not) with the rest of the system. Your Hegel has a lot more power - with harder to drive loudspeakers extra power can never hurt.

    • @C_J__
      @C_J__ 2 роки тому +3

      I had both at home on trial. Both fantastic amps but I love the Naim sound more.

    • @cooker4000
      @cooker4000 2 роки тому

      It won't. Hegel is better

    • @gaborkovacs9824
      @gaborkovacs9824 2 роки тому +1

      Its subjective. And the h390 costs 25% more.

  • @stratenboek
    @stratenboek 2 роки тому +14

    What a sad story about the shop owner : (

    • @stephencosta6814
      @stephencosta6814 2 роки тому +2

      Falling off a cliff what a nightmare

    • @connorduke4619
      @connorduke4619 2 роки тому +7

      He's now on the 4th dimension astral plane in perfect health, going to class and preparing for his next life. Life is not a tragedy but a never ending story. Mediums have even interviewed Beethoven and Mozart about their creative process.

    • @pandora8478
      @pandora8478 Рік тому

      @@connorduke4619 mediums! Seriously?

    • @connorduke4619
      @connorduke4619 Рік тому

      @@pandora8478 You still think humans are mortal and soulless. Seriously?

  • @kevinchew2594
    @kevinchew2594 2 роки тому

    What speakers and cable you use ? Tq

    • @r423fplip
      @r423fplip Рік тому +1

      Probably made from copper. With connections on both ends. Just a guess of course.

  • @peterbruinsma8982
    @peterbruinsma8982 2 роки тому

    Please make a test for the Hegel H390. Thanks

  • @leonsam12
    @leonsam12 Рік тому

    My Focal Aria 936s at times seem lifeless, would the Naim bring them them to life with more clarity and presence in the higher end frequencies??🤔🤔

    • @Zach_Routhier
      @Zach_Routhier Рік тому +4

      Yes. Focals and Naim are an amazing synergy. I've heard that Focal tailor there sound with Naim in mind and that they are related companies.

  • @sapkan7879
    @sapkan7879 Рік тому +2

    Has anyone here moved from a XS3 to a SN3? Is the jump in sq substantial? Any comments would be much appreciated..

    • @maxvdl1262
      @maxvdl1262 3 місяці тому

      @@sapkan7879 Oh yes, very substantial. I went from 5si, to xs3, to xs3 with Teddycap (big jump in sound quality and depth of stage, and then remplaced xs3 with sn3. You won’t regret it.

  • @2011RAIMONDS
    @2011RAIMONDS 2 роки тому +2

    Great review. Thanks. But doesn’t Luxman 590 prevail over Naim in terms of sound?

    • @yantrussart6584
      @yantrussart6584 2 роки тому +2

      I heard them both side by side a couple of times and prefered the Luxman everytime... So much so that I actually bought it.

    • @2011RAIMONDS
      @2011RAIMONDS 2 роки тому +1

      @@yantrussart6584 Thanks for sharing. And Luxman is more detailed I think.

    • @yantrussart6584
      @yantrussart6584 2 роки тому +1

      @@susokraut3169 you know there are better ways to seek attention, right?

    • @3582jj
      @3582jj 2 роки тому

      @@yantrussart6584 yet the 590 is over 2k more in stores

    • @dt9019
      @dt9019 2 роки тому

      Yo. Luxman is arright. Naim sn3 is way cool though.

  • @ronbickle4903
    @ronbickle4903 2 роки тому +5

    I thought you said the Enleum AMP-23R was the best integrated you heard in your system

    • @Tim216-m5l
      @Tim216-m5l Рік тому

      And before that Line Magnetic 219, Vinnie Rossi, Pass, etc. it’s hard to believe a reviewer who keeps saying the latest gear he reviews is the best

  • @xstensl8823
    @xstensl8823 2 роки тому +6

    almost bought a 5si but than heard a Rega Brio.

    • @rog86
      @rog86 2 роки тому

      Which was better?

    • @germanmenendez1401
      @germanmenendez1401 2 роки тому +1

      @@rog86 I think he is trying to say "then" for "than"...I made a direct comparsion with the Brio R to Naim XS. Naim was better in some areas but no every and was 3x times the price. I replaced my Brio R for the Naim but always missed the Brio an never was totally happy with Naim...The Naim was replaced for a Reisong A10 that have been replaced for a Synthesis Roma 96. Never looked back to Naim...that said if i coud have 4 diferents amps to change probably one could be a Naim but never would be my first option or my favorite.

    • @sbwlearning1372
      @sbwlearning1372 2 роки тому +1

      @@germanmenendez1401 Naim is very over priced

    • @dmgmail7021
      @dmgmail7021 Рік тому +2

      I familiar with those two. They are not comparable models. Naim is better in many ways. Brio is a fun lil amp that packs a nice punch but it really is not in the same class, you'd have to higher up the Rega chain to compare similar model amps.

  • @ceejaydeesoozaa
    @ceejaydeesoozaa Рік тому

    IS naim leaps and bounds better than a cambridge audio 350a amp?

    • @melesmeles1953
      @melesmeles1953 Рік тому +2

      Very different, I’d say. The Cambridge is a very called able amp… but the Naim’s are SO musical. Give one a try if you can.

  • @vangstr
    @vangstr Рік тому

    what happened to your end all be all set up ---> nagra????

  • @1vlb
    @1vlb 2 роки тому +4

    The reason the speaker terminals are backwards is because Naim recommends putting your gear on the side wall not between the speakers.

    • @gregstevenson7401
      @gregstevenson7401 2 роки тому +3

      The same guys that give you cheap interconnect flanges? YMVM but I think (As a long time Naim user) they cheap out on a lot of things. Cables matter but not as much as your amp does.

    • @MrKevinRance
      @MrKevinRance 2 роки тому +4

      That is not true at all, the reason why they are the other way around is that Naim used to make studio gear where the back is facing you, then the terminals are the correct way around. They just stuck with it.

    • @Baerchenization
      @Baerchenization 2 роки тому

      Can you not visualise how this does not change anything, or reenact it with some cables on your desk? Also, it is a terrible idea because it adds a mile to your speaker cable lengths, which you want to keep as short as possible.

  • @ducmoto1975
    @ducmoto1975 2 роки тому +3

    from my experience you need low sensitive speakers - maybe max 92db or sth.
    if you drive high sensitive speakers like klipsch there will be too much energy in the sound.

    • @Skyouu
      @Skyouu 2 роки тому +1

      92 dB is not "low"....I mean 85db and less is low... 85 -->92 medium , and upper than 92 high ... No ?

    • @ducmoto1975
      @ducmoto1975 2 роки тому +1

      @@Skyouu something like this I think

    • @Skyouu
      @Skyouu 2 роки тому

      @@ducmoto1975 ok, do you know the matching with triangle and Naim?

    • @ducmoto1975
      @ducmoto1975 2 роки тому +2

      @@Skyouu long time ago I my naim nail 2 drove triangle comets. I liked it a lot.
      later I bought Harbeth M30 speakers und upgraded with NAC72 and NAP140 because I couldn't use the potential of the Harbeth with the NAIT2.
      anyway two years later I bought the NAP250 olive and the Harbeth starts to shine.
      10 Years later I bought the Cornwall 4 and replaced the vintage NAP250 with a Supernait 3. Great improvement but in my opinion too much current for the Cornwall 4.
      Today I drive my BC1 with the Supernait 3
      and my klipsch with my NAIT 2
      both sounds great.
      all I wanna say - it`s a journey. NAIM was never disappointing.

    • @Skyouu
      @Skyouu 2 роки тому

      @@ducmoto1975 do you think the 5si could drive the comete 40th anniversary speakers ? Or it's better to go on the XS3 ?
      About the preamplifier of the SN3,it's the same about the 500 series.. do you think the XS3 have the preamplifier of 200series ?
      Thanks to your feedback on the Triangle/Naim association, I were sure it was a nice match.

  • @redstarwraith
    @redstarwraith 2 роки тому +3

    People have said that the Kinki Studios integrated has a lot of that Naim sound. One reviewer said it was, "like Naim and Hegel had a baby." I wonder if the Supernait 3 reminded you of the Kinki integrated you reviewed some time ago?

    • @redstarwraith
      @redstarwraith 2 роки тому +2

      @@toucheslapper well yeah. I mean Naim is quite an established player.. Kinki Studios has been on the scene all of..........15 minutes?

    • @aleksandertrap-jensen8486
      @aleksandertrap-jensen8486 2 роки тому +2

      Kinki Studio amps, are leaning more towards the so called "swiss sound, more transparent, more analytical, more clean and lean. Naim (in general terms) is more musical, organic, dynamic and less analytical.

  • @martindevon3204
    @martindevon3204 2 роки тому +6

    In the UK the Naim sound is called a "wall of sound"

    • @dmgmail7021
      @dmgmail7021 Рік тому +1

      I get the feeling you paired it something it didn't match with then had a bad experience trying to return it. One thing that may help you to know is every component must have the right synergy with the other components in your system. This will make or break any system. And buy from a reputable dealer for a happy experience 😁

    • @degou3438
      @degou3438 Рік тому +1

      @@ReferenceFidelityComponents bro, stop, just stop

  • @JingoLoBa57
    @JingoLoBa57 2 роки тому +3

    Better control than the PassLabs at bass percussion mmmm.

  • @michaelcorlet2998
    @michaelcorlet2998 11 місяців тому

    Which amps did not sound up to the niam.

  • @82ivaylo
    @82ivaylo 4 місяці тому +1

    NAIM sound signature vs neutrality? I will choose neutrality.

    • @userzeldalink
      @userzeldalink Місяць тому

      Neutrality is a sound signature pretends to be neutral, it’s a kind of signature as well.

  • @joaquinrubio3230
    @joaquinrubio3230 Рік тому +1

    Parasound Halo HINT 6
    Parasound Halo HINT 6 can this amp match or beat the amp you are listening too?

  • @crushingbelial
    @crushingbelial 2 роки тому +1

    Having had a 272/250dr, the Naim game ladder became brutally expensive to step things up, even w their power supplies (or so-called knockoffs) it was a wallet pain to try and extract more.
    That being said, lovely kit that works w specific ranges of speakers.

    • @Skyouu
      @Skyouu 2 роки тому +2

      +1, Naim is a bit pricy...

    • @dt9019
      @dt9019 2 роки тому +2

      Yes. Im running some tunetots with this- Its remarkable.

  • @donde2k
    @donde2k 2 роки тому +2

    The speaker terminal positions are like old-school McIntosh. Not a deal breaker, but annoying.

  • @danandersen8221
    @danandersen8221 2 роки тому +5

    Ad a naim hi-cap dr and you Will be amaised

    • @trowdwp
      @trowdwp 2 роки тому

      What difference?

    • @danandersen8221
      @danandersen8221 2 роки тому +2

      @@trowdwp it sounds a lot better, the pre sektion get it’s ovn psu.

  • @hamidrezahabibi8111
    @hamidrezahabibi8111 2 роки тому +3

    Personally I do prefer EXPOSURE. It’s a well established British company. To my ears NAIM is on the metallic tonality side of music reproduction.

    • @xstensl8823
      @xstensl8823 Рік тому

      how would Rega compare to the Exposure?

  • @Eleysia1981
    @Eleysia1981 2 роки тому +6

    Wasnt impressed at all by the SN3. Quickly sold on.

    • @sbwlearning1372
      @sbwlearning1372 2 роки тому +1

      Yep I found it a little harsh and underpowered. It was 4 year old when I bought it. Sold it on within 6 months

    • @itswhiskeytime8538
      @itswhiskeytime8538 2 роки тому +1

      @@sbwlearning1372 Then it wasn't a SN3. They came out in 2019

    • @itswhiskeytime8538
      @itswhiskeytime8538 2 роки тому +1

      @@sbwlearning1372 Just curious, what speaker did you have at the time?

  • @r423fplip
    @r423fplip 2 роки тому +1

    Why would anyone want a amp that puts a character on all the music you listen too. Surely it has a flat frequency response !

    • @CaptainCrunch823
      @CaptainCrunch823 2 роки тому +1

      “Flat” = lifeless to many of us. Some prefer warm and rich, while others like bright and airy.

    • @maxine2798
      @maxine2798 2 роки тому +8

      It lets the character through. Most other amps don’t, that’s why they sound dull in comparison. I am a Naim owner. Same kit for decades. I’ve not felt the need to change it. That’s value and reliability

    • @garyb2507
      @garyb2507 6 місяців тому

      @@maxine2798 Naim equipment seems to appeal to the same people who like Rolex watches, Porsche cars, Chris Reeve knives, Leica cameras, etc. Its of a similar aesthetic.

  • @PINKFL0YD-s2h
    @PINKFL0YD-s2h 10 місяців тому +2

    Too much audiophile equipment strips the soul out of the music.

    • @GarryMiller-vc7my
      @GarryMiller-vc7my 10 місяців тому

      Thats why i use Lowther speakers with a computer sound card.. no DAC. With the cheapest leads I can find with a FM radio

  • @Ferbeldeyberb
    @Ferbeldeyberb Рік тому

    Musical, you say?

  • @greenbow7888
    @greenbow7888 2 роки тому

    Am surprised you're saying the Supernait 2 was weighty. It's said that Naims over the last couple of generations were a bit bright.
    As I'm sure you know, you now want to be looking at outboard Naim power supplies. They apparently make the amps even more Naim like and better.
    Would have been nice to hear your impressions with Heritage Special.

  • @joseestrella334
    @joseestrella334 2 роки тому +1

    You need to break that puppy in for 100 hours at the very least.. Maybe a followup?

    • @joseestrella334
      @joseestrella334 2 роки тому +6

      Maybe try the naim streamers as well to compare to lina, and you get to use the din cables, also try speaker cables, din cables, power cables made for naim. Try the power supplies like hicapDR, the whole SN3 upgrade path..etc etc.. It gets way better. Go down the naim rabbit hole.. Lol. Enjoy!

    • @shivmirchandani9723
      @shivmirchandani9723 2 роки тому +1

      @@joseestrella334 true but it can get terribly expensive too.

    • @joseestrella334
      @joseestrella334 2 роки тому +2

      @@shivmirchandani9723 very much so yes! And terribly rewarding as well. Cheers!

    • @fredemny3304
      @fredemny3304 2 роки тому +4

      Absolute nonsense Jose. 😂

    • @alancrane4693
      @alancrane4693 2 роки тому +1

      @@joseestrella334 that's the fun of it 🤣 love Naim even their circuits are very very geeky 😃

  • @jimomertz
    @jimomertz 2 роки тому +6

    I would never own a Naim amp. They have serious design flaws. They are thermally compromised with no external heat sink. They rely on the case to radiate the heat. If you drive them hard, they will shut down. Second is they have no output protection. If the transistors fail, they will damage your speakers. Add to that its other quirks, and you just choose something else.

    • @DBravo29er
      @DBravo29er 2 роки тому +24

      Many high-end amplifiers omit the added complication (and additional devices in the signal path) line Naim. And, with the amount of current being pushed through modern output devices, tiny fuses can still have their spark gap jumped even after blown. I've seen it personally in a new Parasound A21+. Speakers still toast. It happens, unfortunately. Having "protection" circuits or features are no guarantee.
      The entire shell of the Naim is a single 7lb piece of billet-machined aluminum. This entire case is directly coupled to the output devices and is elegantly used as the heat sink. Not many amps, especially INTEGRATED amps, have 7lbs worth of heat sink/thermal mass. I've hammered on my Supernait 3 even with 83dB sens speakers and have yet to have it get more than slightly warm. The only shut-downs I've seen are when using high-capacitance speaker cables like Kimber 12TC. But those same cables also cause high frequency oscillation and instability in Pass Amps, Parasound, Krell, Mola Mola, NAD, Rotel, Adcom, etc. Aside from clipping the amp on a test bench for hours at a time, the thermal management is fully adequate for the real world.
      So, we've established that you've never owned a Naim amp and you just used two make-believe examples as "flaws". Have you ever even used a Naim product?

    • @spotshooter1
      @spotshooter1 2 роки тому +16

      20+ year Naim owner. Never had a problem with any Naim amp I've owned. The amps are very reliable.

    • @nwr99nwr99
      @nwr99nwr99 2 роки тому +12

      I take it that you've never actually owned a Naim then? I've owned Naim gear over the last 40yrs. Never had one shut down. Never had one fail. My brother still uses my 30yr old Nait2 everyday and it still sounds wonderful.

    • @MrBerry67
      @MrBerry67 2 роки тому +10

      Frankly that's nonsense

    • @dt9019
      @dt9019 2 роки тому +10

      That idiotic. My naims have been dependable and sound fantastic.

  • @hamidrezahabibi8111
    @hamidrezahabibi8111 2 роки тому +8

    Personally I do prefer EXPOSURE. It’s a well established British company. To my ears NAIM is on the metallic tonality side of music reproduction.