The NAIT XS represents a return to the upgradable philosophy beloved of Naim buyers. Whereas the baby brother NAIT 5i will have to be traded-in should you wish to upgrade, the XS allows for power supplies to be added and / or the addition of a power amplifier.

It features a massive 380VA mains transformer (only 20 VA below the Supernait) with five secondary windings and it's reassuringly heavy for such a compact device. Separate power supplies for pre and power amplifier sections, and the highest quality best-sounding components in every critical location.

Built in a version of Naim's innovative low resonance, non-magnetic slimline case, the NAIT XS exemplifies the Naim approach to audio: focused, technologically innovative, aesthetically elegant and musically satisfying. Jeepers, I want one already.

Hands-on over the past few weeks has reinforced our initial enthusiasm. Where the Supernait represents a bit of a diversion from the Naim sound (let's be controversial and call it a Naim for the folk who don't really like Naim!), the XS is far more of a team player. It is a proper step forwards from the 5i-2, offering greater resolution, scale, headroom etc, etc. Judging it against the slightly more expensive 122X/150X pre/power combo is more complicated. Outcomes will depend on speaker matching and personal taste, but the preference really could go either way.

Let's have a real-world comparison with a CD 5x source and Kudos C1 loudspeakers:

The pre-power scores with a more solid, locked-down and commanding presentation. It grabs your attention and keeps you involved. The Nait XS is more subtle. It is less instantly dramatic yet has an openness and lightness of touch through the midband, particularly evident with voices, that may well be more important to some listeners. It still gets under your skin, resolution is higher, sense of drama and overt commitment a little lower.

The resolution and neutrality could win some non-Naim converts, yet hard-core Naimies will be happy with the speed and rhythmic grasp. I cannot help thinking that we are witnessing a new Naim sonic style emerging. There is a little of this new DNA in the HDX too. Oh, and the new Powerline über mains lead is A Very Good Thing with all of them.

By comparison to the XS, the softer-focus, bigger, fuller sound of the Supernait seems warm and veiled. At least that's what we think! Your own opinions are most welcome - and every bit as valid.

THE NAIT XS PROPOSITION

Slim line

The XS’s construction and aesthetic borrow directly from the very successful and highly acclaimed 5 Series. It features zinc die-casting, combined with aluminium extrusions and covers which result in a rigid case offering great immunity to the effects of external vibration.

Value packed

Tremendous value for money, the NAIT XS is packed with the latest in Naim’s integrated amplifier engineering expertise; refined to deliver optimum performance within the 5 series chassis. No stone has been left unturned in terms of utilising the space available to optimise the NAIT XS’s signal path, while ensuring that components that like space are given it. This approach ensures the maximum performance possible is delivered.

The price is £1350 inc VAT at 15% (now with dapper brushed alloy front panel)

Arcam, Audio Technica, Creek, Chord Company, Eichmann, Dynavector, Epos, Focal / JM Labs, Grado headphones, Harbeth, Hutter

Isoblue (and special branch), Kudos Audio, Lyngdorf, Lyra, Michell Engineering, Naim Audio, Neat Acoustics, Nordost, Origin Live, Ortofon, Nottingham Analogue, Partington, Primare, Rega, Roksan, Rountree Acoustics, Sim2, Graham Slee, Shahinian, Something Solid,

Stands Unique, Stax Earspeakers, Sumiko, Trichord, Wireworld, Wyrewizard

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