120 vs Supernait/HDX

[PhilP]

The neutrality is growing on me. When I can listen at higher volumes I'll have a better feel for this but at present it all feels a bit bass/mid light. All thoughts welcome but in light of GuillaimeBs post above I'm wondering if he true nature of my CDP has just been exposed, or could it be something else?

Mike,

I owned a CDX2/XPS2 for several years before moving to NDX/XPS2. IMO the NDX has greater bass extension than the CDX2 so perhaps the latter is a little bass light.

Another factor may be that Naim amps generally have quite full bass (often referred to as a mid-upper bass 'hump' which is appealing) but the bass doesn't go as deep as the Devialet - from what I've experienced not until you get to 552 level. Bass extension and control improved considerably when I moved from 282/HC/200 to Devialet 200.

I am very pleased with the results I get playing my LP12 through the Devialet which seems to very accurately convey the colourful character of the Linn. So I can only conclude that the analogue inputs are excellent. So perhaps what you're hearing is a true representation of the CdX2? It is one of Naim's most characterful products and was 'voiced' to match their classic range so maybe it's not a good match for Devialet.

FWIW, I recently compared my NDX via digital and analogue outputs into my Devialet 200 and there was a considerable difference. The analogue connection was pleasant to listen to with a warm, rounded sound. The digital connection (I.e. By-passing the NDX's DAC) gave a much more open, detailed sound and was significantly better.

Philip