Audiophile Quality Naim System Naim Nac 112 preamplifier NAP 150 power amplifier and CD 5 high end CD player

The Naim NAC 112 (preamplifier) and NAP 150 (stereo power amplifier) are separate components launched by Naim Audio in the early 2000s as part of their "Series 5" lineup. Delivering 50 watts per channel into 8 ohms, this combo provides a modular step up from Naim's integrated amplifiers, introducing listeners to the brand's signature pre/power split philosophy. [1]

Sound Characteristics & Performance

According to an in-depth review by 6moons audio reviews, the combo has a slightly warm, natural, and dark character that provides an immediate, engaging, and rhythmically cohesive presentation. [1]

Strengths: It is highly praised for its unmatched propulsive momentum ("Pace, Rhythm, and Timing"), lifelike imaging, and excellent micro-dynamics. It handles lower-quality recordings gracefully and effectively communicates the emotional intent of music. [1]

Weaknesses: It tends to lose a small amount of ultra-fine low-level detail and sparkle. It also favors soundstage depth over billowy, airy width. [1]

Bass & Treble: On the Naim Audio Community, users agree that the 112/150 combination brings tight, controlled bass and smooth, highly detailed treble without the aggressive, piercing edge found on older legacy components like the NAP 90. [1, 2]

System Connectivity & Power Scheme

Naim uses proprietary connectivity that requires careful attention during setup: [1]

Power Connection: The NAP 150 power amplifier actually feeds power back to the NAC 112 preamplifier via an umbilical cable, meaning you do not plug the preamp directly into the wall. [1]

Cables: The standard connection between the two units utilizes a 4-pin SNAIC cable. Input signals from external sources typically require DIN connectors or specialized 2-RCA-to-DIN interconnects. [1, 2]

Upgradability: One point of agreement among users on the Naim Audio Community is that the NAC 112 preamplifier is considered the weak link in this chain. Community members note that adding an external Flatcap 2 power supply (via a 5-pin SNAIC cable) significantly unlocks the preamplifier's performance. Alternatively, upgrading the preamp to later "x" iterations like the NAC 112x or NAC 122x yields notable benefits. [1, 2]






The Naim CD5 is a highly regarded, premium audiophile CD player originally introduced by British hi-fi specialist Naim Audio as an update to the popular Naim 3.5. Known for its minimalist aesthetics, robust build, and signature "musicality," it relies on Naim's distinct manual swing-out drawer and magnetic puck clamping mechanism. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]



Core Engineering & Design

The CD5 is characterized by a "sound-before-features" design philosophy, utilizing premium internal components coupled with a unique structural layout: [1, 2]

The Transport Mechanism: Features a hand-operated "oven-door" swing-out drive access rather than a traditional motorized tray. It uses a Philips VAM 1205 transport mechanism and requires a small, low-inertia magnetic disc "puck" to secure the CD onto the spindle. [1, 2]

Internal Audio Circuitry: Equipped with a Philips SAA7376 servo-controller and an 18-bit TDA 1305 filter/DAC combination. The analog output stage utilizes Burr-Brown op-amps alongside a proprietary Naim 7-pole output filtering layout. [1]

Chassis & Power: Built into a rigid, internally damped zinc/aluminum "black box" casing with an illuminated green Naim logo. It features isolated, independent power supply tracks for digital and analog circuits. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Sonic Profile & Performance

In terms of audio performance, the CD5 is celebrated for its transparent, rhythmic, and highly engaging presentation

. [1]
The "Naim Sound": It focuses heavily on timing, pace, and dynamic attack. While it doesn't try to compete with modern ultra-high-resolution DACs on soundstage width or top-end sparkle, users on the Naim Audio Community Forum frequently highlight its effortless musical flow, noting that it can sound more organic and pleasant than even some of Naim's flashier, more expensive vintage models.

Bass & Imaging: It delivers a tight, quick, and wiry bass signature combined with stellar micro-resolution and stable stereo imaging. [1, 2, 3]

Connectivity & Power Upgrades

Outputs: True to Naim tradition, the analog output is optimized via proprietary DIN jacks, though standard RCA outputs are available. The baseline CD5 does not feature a digital output—it was built to be run strictly as a standalone analog player. [1, 2, 3]

Power Supply Expansion: One of the key advantages of the original CD5 is its modular upgrade path. By removing a rear blanking plug, you can link the player to an external dedicated power supply, such as the Naim Flatcap 2. Adding a Flatcap significantly improves resolution, bass control, and overall instrument separation. [1, 2]

The CD5 Family Timeline

Over the years, the CD5 designation evolved through several iterations, each tailoring the player's cost and output layout: