Naim Atom alternative?

I think so - my advice would be to buy something relatively new as DACs are evolving rapidly

you need to decide if you will need DSD and at what bit rates (tho there seems to be little SQ increment over Redbook, you are likely to get a high quality mastering)

USB seems to be fairly problematic as an interface

people on this forum might be able to help:
https://www.computeraudiophile.com 

We are a Naim dealer, so here is our perspective on the Atom.

The Atom is way better then the lower priced tier of equipment.

Even though the Atom is one of Naims lowest cost items it is using amplification technology and digital technology out of much more expensive products.

The new analog preamplfication stage is actually based on new curcuitry which was developed for the Nac 272 which is a $6,0000 Dac/preap and for example.

The Atom offers a high current 40 watt amp, a superb preamp and dac, a comprehensive streaming engine, and lastly a fantastic easy to use app

The Atom also allows for all methods of modern streaming, via blu tooth, Google cast, Airplay. 

So if you consdier the life expectancy of how long you would keep the uinit which would be 7-10 years I think the cost savings of moving down stream vs the  long term satisfaction that this piece would bring you would be money well spent.

The Naim products are a joy to use and to listen to.

Dave and Troy 
Audio Doctor NJ

Thanks for the feedback. The Atom is not out of the picture, as it has much to offer indeed. But recently I read about one of the bigger units (Nova?), that their internal database is limited to 20,000 titles (e.g. when a USB device is hooked up). Is this also the case for the Atom? That would be an unfortunate limitation, as my collection currently has a bit over 20k titles (it's not growing much anymore, but I'd like to have at least everything available).

I lived happily with a Naim Atom and Naim Core combo for many years. They’re both half width in size, so together they’re not very bulky.

The Core adds convenience (and sounds better than streaming over Ethernet) but yes is an added cost over a usb hard drive. If you wanted to cut costs, check out Hawthorne Stereo. They often have demo units for sale at 20% off for both atom and core. Other dealers do as well

in terms of lower cost afternatives, you may want to look into the Cambridge EVO products. I haven’t listened to them yet but worth investigating. Entry level Hegel as well.