Naim Nait 5i vs 5i italic

Dwhitt,
As you might know, I am also a happy Totem Arro owner. Unfortunately, my local Naim dealer does not have the 5i in stock so I cannot demo on my own speakers. He is only willing to order the amp if I purchase first. I know this is a sign of our current economy, but this really caused me to hit "pause"...

Muzikat,
Thanks very much for the link.

Dwhitt,
Good guess.. while I love all kinds of music, when it is time to settle in listen I gravitate towards classical, jazz, and vocal.

I do try and support my local dealer, but probably like most of us, can't justify paying MSRP all the time. My dealer has given me great advice over the years and I have spent many hours listening in his shop. There is only one mid level audiophile store left in my area, and I hope he can stay alive in this economy.

I am certainly not against buying used and saving considerable money- especially if a piece of equipment will hold it's value.

Can anyone who has heard these two amps comment on their sonic differences?

Thanks.

Superhonestben,
Thanks for the reply. I have not yet visited the dealer's shop. My only interactions have been by phone. Obviously, this is not the dealer I usually work with (and have known for many years).