Originally posted by lordsummit
The Naim pre/powers are a better choice than the 5i. I have a 62/140 combo and my friend has a 5i. I know which I prefer, the pre power has more guts, more detail and ultimately makes a better noise. It has more bass, instuments sound more natural, and voices sound more natural. It should be cheaper too. My mint serviced combo cost £425. They mostly come with a phono stage, with a 5i you would need a separate one.
I bought Naim because i wanted something my system wasn't, and I knew I would be able to get my money back if I didn't like it. It has been the single biggest upgrade to my system ever, and has made all the other components sound much more their money.