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

Sdílet
Vložit
  • čas přidán 30. 09. 2022
  • Join this channel to get access to perks:
    / @hifihuff
    #hifi #audiophile #audio
    My 7000 Word Written Review: www.stevehuffphoto.com/2022/1...
    See this amp at The Music Room: tmraudio.com/
    This is my review of the Naim Supernait 3 Integrated Amplifier. This is a small un-assuming amp made in the UK by Naim. Naim has been around since 1973 and has always been unique. Naim amps have a signature sound that you either love or do not love.
    For me, this amp has an impactful big sound where drums and piano are done just right. It's super powerful sounding even though the power is 80 WPC in to 8ohms and 130 WPC into 4 ohms.
    The treble is extended yet not in your face and the bass fills in through the mids to the bottom to create a full and solid, dense presentation.
    It has the Naim boogie and PRAT (pace, rythym and. timing).
    There are also some quirks and I point them out here.
    Enjoy!
    The Fluance RT85: amzn.to/3CpOjMu
    The best $29 Speaker Cables you will ever Find: amzn.to/3RsIh1O
    Media Contact/Review Contact: stevehuff1@icloud.com
  • Jak na to + styl

Komentáře • 253

  • @HiFiHuff
    @HiFiHuff  Před rokem +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 Před rokem +1

      Have you ever tried Hegel H390?

    • @jonuiuc
      @jonuiuc Před rokem

      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 Před rokem

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

    • @janulik9535
      @janulik9535 Před 9 měsíci

      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 Před rokem +5

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

    • @cpg8000
      @cpg8000 Před rokem

      What speakers are you pairing it with?

  • @alancrane4693
    @alancrane4693 Před rokem +5

    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.

  • @ptfap
    @ptfap Před rokem +2

    Really great and open review, many thanks indeed!

  • @AndreiKisel
    @AndreiKisel Před rokem +3

    Have my Supernait 2 for 7 years, never disappoints.

  • @shkermanshahi
    @shkermanshahi Před rokem

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

  • @martinsapsitis4292
    @martinsapsitis4292 Před rokem +3

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

  • @Sronsky
    @Sronsky Před rokem +1

    Very happy with your choice! Love the naim sound.

  • @OriginalgEd
    @OriginalgEd Před rokem +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.

  • @shivmirchandani9723
    @shivmirchandani9723 Před rokem +1

    Wonderful review !

  • @MrKimber58
    @MrKimber58 Před rokem +4

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

  • @stimpy1226
    @stimpy1226 Před rokem +1

    I am happy that the audio quality of the music that you’re playing on these videos has substantially gotten better.

  • @theheathster2
    @theheathster2 Před rokem +19

    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!

  • @MICHAELSMITH-fl7du
    @MICHAELSMITH-fl7du Před rokem +2

    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.

  • @klaymoon1
    @klaymoon1 Před rokem +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.

  • @Ricky-cl5bu
    @Ricky-cl5bu Před rokem +7

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

  • @audio_acoustic_engineering

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

  • @tonyhodgkinson4586
    @tonyhodgkinson4586 Před rokem +3

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

  • @luckycharm4623
    @luckycharm4623 Před 5 měsíci +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!

  • @dougg1075
    @dougg1075 Před rokem +3

    I love the look also. Kinda eighties

  • @chrishumphries7697
    @chrishumphries7697 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +4

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

  • @13thnotehifireviews7
    @13thnotehifireviews7 Před rokem +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

    • @davidirvine4294
      @davidirvine4294 Před rokem

      Leaving it on actually INCREASES an amps longevity as most wear / damage is caused by the shock of switch-on.

    • @letslearnenglish-xv1rk
      @letslearnenglish-xv1rk Před rokem

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

  • @user-cy8ei1ze6n
    @user-cy8ei1ze6n Před rokem +2

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

  • @marcgoldin8937
    @marcgoldin8937 Před rokem +7

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

  • @stefanaliprantis5530
    @stefanaliprantis5530 Před rokem +3

    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.

  • @bencausey
    @bencausey Před rokem +1

    Excellent

  • @bertramlefarge69
    @bertramlefarge69 Před 3 měsíci +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 Před 3 dny

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

    • @r423sdex
      @r423sdex Před dnem

      Great ! It’s far from that.

  • @klaymoon1
    @klaymoon1 Před rokem +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?

  • @neilthompson7752
    @neilthompson7752 Před rokem +4

    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..

  • @rickg8015
    @rickg8015 Před rokem +6

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

    • @ianmcsherry5254
      @ianmcsherry5254 Před rokem +1

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

  • @craigosterberg5045
    @craigosterberg5045 Před rokem +1

    Thanks

  • @henriksrensen3220
    @henriksrensen3220 Před rokem +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 Před rokem

      Why did you leave Naim ?

    • @henriksrensen3220
      @henriksrensen3220 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +1

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

    • @Skyouu
      @Skyouu Před rokem

      @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?

  • @CinemaDemocratica
    @CinemaDemocratica Před 8 měsíci

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

  • @villageroma
    @villageroma Před rokem +9

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

    • @neilthompson7752
      @neilthompson7752 Před rokem +2

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

    • @DBravo29er
      @DBravo29er Před rokem +5

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

    • @thebestoffools
      @thebestoffools Před rokem +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 Před rokem +2

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

    • @ducmoto1975
      @ducmoto1975 Před rokem +4

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

  • @chasehatton3691
    @chasehatton3691 Před rokem +1

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

  • @gasolin75
    @gasolin75 Před rokem +5

    did you change your dynaudio heritage special ?

  • @goahead3995
    @goahead3995 Před rokem +4

    "It has balls. It sounds huge".🤣

  • @pietervg5541
    @pietervg5541 Před rokem +3

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

    • @erics.4113
      @erics.4113 Před rokem +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 Před 6 měsíci +1

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

  • @nealandkriz5078
    @nealandkriz5078 Před rokem +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.. Před rokem

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

    • @xstensl8823
      @xstensl8823 Před rokem

      what did you get?

    • @nealandkriz5078
      @nealandkriz5078 Před rokem +1

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

  • @ianjones487
    @ianjones487 Před rokem +2

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

  • @cardinalfang7725
    @cardinalfang7725 Před rokem +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.

  • @peterbruinsma8982
    @peterbruinsma8982 Před rokem

    Please make a test for the Hegel H390. Thanks

  • @watchnut
    @watchnut Před rokem +6

    Review the Accuphase E280 if you want integrated amp bliss.

  • @sweemechai
    @sweemechai Před rokem +1

    Hope you will review the Swiss Stenheim Alumine 3 speaker.

  • @stratenboek
    @stratenboek Před rokem +14

    What a sad story about the shop owner : (

    • @stephencosta6814
      @stephencosta6814 Před rokem +2

      Falling off a cliff what a nightmare

    • @connorduke4619
      @connorduke4619 Před rokem +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 Před rokem

      @@connorduke4619 mediums! Seriously?

    • @connorduke4619
      @connorduke4619 Před rokem

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

  • @Gez492
    @Gez492 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +1

      No, it really doesn't.

    • @alancrane4693
      @alancrane4693 Před rokem

      Hicap or supercap?

    • @stuartbridger5177
      @stuartbridger5177 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +2

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

    • @Gez492
      @Gez492 Před rokem +2

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

  • @Vinylbop
    @Vinylbop Před rokem +9

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

    • @Skyouu
      @Skyouu Před rokem

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

  • @georgedomse
    @georgedomse Před rokem +7

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

    • @goahead3995
      @goahead3995 Před rokem +2

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

  • @jamessnuggs
    @jamessnuggs Před rokem +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 Před rokem

      Luxman - sweeter top end.

    • @FJBx100
      @FJBx100 Před rokem

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

  • @scslite5206
    @scslite5206 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +4

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

    • @scslite5206
      @scslite5206 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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,

  • @georgeho8997
    @georgeho8997 Před rokem +2

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

    • @HiFiHuff
      @HiFiHuff  Před rokem +6

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

  • @johnshore3095
    @johnshore3095 Před rokem

    How does this Supernaitbcompare to the Rotel Michi X3 ?

  • @gregstevenson7401
    @gregstevenson7401 Před rokem +5

    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 Před rokem

      Lyngdorf are top dogs right now for sure.

    • @amitpatel-gy3tu
      @amitpatel-gy3tu Před rokem +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. 👍🏽

  • @GentielioGaming
    @GentielioGaming Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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 Před rokem

      @@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 Před 11 měsíci

      ​@@GentielioGamingSupernait 3 is 400va

  • @samgates2059
    @samgates2059 Před rokem +3

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

    • @alancrane4693
      @alancrane4693 Před rokem +1

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

  • @milesdufourny4813
    @milesdufourny4813 Před rokem

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

  • @sapkan7879
    @sapkan7879 Před rokem +2

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

  • @johnsimmons5056
    @johnsimmons5056 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +1

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

    • @MODAC
      @MODAC Před rokem +1

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

  • @MODAC
    @MODAC Před rokem +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 Před rokem +2

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

    • @anjovandijk9797
      @anjovandijk9797 Před rokem

      However?

    • @DBravo29er
      @DBravo29er Před rokem +2

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

    • @anjovandijk9797
      @anjovandijk9797 Před rokem +1

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

    • @DBravo29er
      @DBravo29er Před rokem +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.

  • @martinmbokazi8372
    @martinmbokazi8372 Před rokem +3

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

    • @erics.4113
      @erics.4113 Před rokem +1

      The one you like the sound of better 😜

    • @erics.4113
      @erics.4113 Před rokem

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

    • @Stephenwongdirectimaging
      @Stephenwongdirectimaging Před rokem

      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 Před rokem +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.

  • @1vlb
    @1vlb Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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 Před rokem

      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.

  • @piker3000
    @piker3000 Před rokem +1

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

    • @alphaniner3770
      @alphaniner3770 Před rokem +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__ Před rokem +3

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

    • @cooker4000
      @cooker4000 Před rokem

      It won't. Hegel is better

    • @gaborkovacs9824
      @gaborkovacs9824 Před rokem +1

      Its subjective. And the h390 costs 25% more.

  • @Michael-xz1nk
    @Michael-xz1nk Před rokem +3

    Any issues with transformer hum as some Naim owners report?

    • @DH-og5yr
      @DH-og5yr Před měsícem +1

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

    • @Michael-xz1nk
      @Michael-xz1nk Před měsícem

      👍

  • @faludabutt8253
    @faludabutt8253 Před rokem

    Every month or so, a newer amp sounds amazing. I could live with that if I got the bucks. You are on an amazing journey, experiences different sounds. I wish I could do that

    • @faludabutt8253
      @faludabutt8253 Před rokem +1

      Plus per my minute experience Pass Labs class A sound is too relaxed. Perhaps after another 10 years, I would accept it. Time being, I stick with class A/B & D with a value pre-amp

  • @GentielioGaming
    @GentielioGaming Před rokem +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??

  • @blp9724
    @blp9724 Před rokem +8

    How does it compare to Pass?

    • @HiFiHuff
      @HiFiHuff  Před rokem +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.

  • @kevinchew2594
    @kevinchew2594 Před rokem

    What speakers and cable you use ? Tq

    • @r423sdex
      @r423sdex Před rokem +1

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

  • @2011RAIMONDS
    @2011RAIMONDS Před rokem +2

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

    • @yantrussart6584
      @yantrussart6584 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +1

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

    • @yantrussart6584
      @yantrussart6584 Před rokem +1

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

    • @3582jj
      @3582jj Před rokem

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

    • @dt9019
      @dt9019 Před rokem

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

  • @ceejaydeesoozaa
    @ceejaydeesoozaa Před 9 měsíci

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

    • @melesmeles1953
      @melesmeles1953 Před 8 měsíci +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.

  • @steveee2511
    @steveee2511 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +1

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

    • @r423sdex
      @r423sdex Před rokem

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

    • @Skyouu
      @Skyouu Před rokem

      Which speakers do you use with the 5si ?

    • @Skyouu
      @Skyouu Před rokem

      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 Před rokem

      @@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

  • @leonsam12
    @leonsam12 Před 9 měsíci

    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 Před 9 měsíci +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.

  • @vangstr
    @vangstr Před 7 měsíci

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

  • @xstensl8823
    @xstensl8823 Před rokem +6

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

    • @rog86
      @rog86 Před rokem

      Which was better?

    • @germanmenendez1401
      @germanmenendez1401 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +1

      @@germanmenendez1401 Naim is very over priced

    • @dmgmail7021
      @dmgmail7021 Před rokem +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.

  • @JingoLoBa57
    @JingoLoBa57 Před rokem +2

    Better control than the PassLabs at bass percussion mmmm.

  • @donde2k
    @donde2k Před rokem +2

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

  • @thomasvalentine6588
    @thomasvalentine6588 Před rokem +6

    Is the Naim going to replace your Enleum amp?

  • @ronbickle4903
    @ronbickle4903 Před rokem +5

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

    • @user-wu4de6ke3v
      @user-wu4de6ke3v Před rokem

      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

  • @crushingbelial
    @crushingbelial Před rokem +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 Před rokem +2

      +1, Naim is a bit pricy...

    • @dt9019
      @dt9019 Před rokem +2

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

  • @redstarwraith
    @redstarwraith Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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.

  • @michaelcorlet2998
    @michaelcorlet2998 Před 6 měsíci

    Which amps did not sound up to the niam.

  • @martindevon3204
    @martindevon3204 Před rokem +5

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

    • @dmgmail7021
      @dmgmail7021 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +1

      @@ReferenceFidelityComponents bro, stop, just stop

  • @joaquinrubio3230
    @joaquinrubio3230 Před rokem +1

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

  • @FJBx100
    @FJBx100 Před rokem +2

    Did you have their legendary balance and volume potentiometer IMBALANCE ? Naim is sending these out, along with their preamplifiers, with systematically faulty ALPS blue velvet pots that are systematically skewed left or right. TOTAL NIGHTMARE.

  • @ducmoto1975
    @ducmoto1975 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +1

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

    • @ducmoto1975
      @ducmoto1975 Před rokem +1

      @@Skyouu something like this I think

    • @Skyouu
      @Skyouu Před rokem

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

    • @ducmoto1975
      @ducmoto1975 Před rokem +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 Před rokem

      @@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.

  • @danandersen8221
    @danandersen8221 Před rokem +5

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

    • @trowdwp
      @trowdwp Před rokem

      What difference?

    • @danandersen8221
      @danandersen8221 Před rokem +2

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

  • @r423sdex
    @r423sdex Před rokem +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 Před rokem +1

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

    • @maxine2798
      @maxine2798 Před rokem +7

      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 Před měsícem

      @@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.

  • @hamidrezahabibi8111
    @hamidrezahabibi8111 Před rokem +7

    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.

  • @MrPINKFL0YD
    @MrPINKFL0YD Před 6 měsíci +2

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

    • @GarryMiller-vc7my
      @GarryMiller-vc7my Před 6 měsíci

      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 Před rokem

    Musical, you say?

  • @Eleysia1981
    @Eleysia1981 Před rokem +6

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

    • @sbwlearning1372
      @sbwlearning1372 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +1

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

    • @itswhiskeytime8538
      @itswhiskeytime8538 Před rokem +1

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

  • @greenbow7888
    @greenbow7888 Před rokem

    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 Před rokem +1

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

    • @joseestrella334
      @joseestrella334 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +1

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

    • @joseestrella334
      @joseestrella334 Před rokem +2

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

    • @fredemny3304
      @fredemny3304 Před rokem +4

      Absolute nonsense Jose. 😂

    • @alancrane4693
      @alancrane4693 Před rokem +1

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

  • @jimomertz
    @jimomertz Před rokem +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 Před rokem +23

      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 Před rokem +16

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

    • @nwr99nwr99
      @nwr99nwr99 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +10

      Frankly that's nonsense

    • @dt9019
      @dt9019 Před rokem +10

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

  • @hamidrezahabibi8111
    @hamidrezahabibi8111 Před rokem +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 Před rokem

      how would Rega compare to the Exposure?