Naim UnitiQute - who's heard one?

I agree with what's been said. I've heard it a few times using analog inputs, digital inputs, and as a DAC and tuner. Performed admirably every way and every time.

Some people have had issues getting the streaming right. They've mainly been iTunes users. It won't stream Apple codec files, so be careful if that's what you plan on using. I suspect the ones who've had issues didn't consult with their dealer to get things right, and just posted questions on a few forums.

Make sure you pair it up with the right speakers. Naim's 30 watts are conservatively rated, but it's not going to drive Maggies in a large room to loud levels.

I haven't heard Harbeths connected to one, but that combo should be fantastic. A lot of Naim guys like the combo. I just wish my Naim dealer would demo it with more than the Naim N-Sat. They're s fun and engaging speaker, but they're too wall of sound and 2 dimentional for me. I've tried to warm up to them, but I lose interest after about an hour or so every time.

Just to add -

Had I not had my Bryston B60 integrated and Apple TV as music server, I'd definitely buy one.

Scott,

I don't have a Uniti or UnitiQute. I guess the answer to if it's a primary system or secondary system piece would best be answered by saying it depends on the person's budget. The Uniti is a Nait 5i, CD5i, and the other stuff in one box. My dealer and I couldn't tell the difference between the Nait 5i/CD5i combo and Uniti playing the same CD in the same room with the same speakers. There's a difference with the UnitiQute, as the power section is scaled back a bit, but it's not a huge difference. Tone Audio actually liked the UnitiQute better, not accounting for the price difference. I don't agree, but I guess it's possible.

The Nait XS and DAC should definitely sound better, as I like both pieces better individually. Haven't heard that combo directly against the Uniti though.

What's used as a primary system comes down to budget IMO. If you can afford the XS/DAC and don't need the extras and one box solution, that may very well be the better fit. They're different components, so it's not like comparing the 5i stuff with the Uniti.

The Uniti and UnitiQute could be the best thought out audio products in a very, very long time. And they sound exceptional.

Samac,

If you're moving up from the NAD 320BEE you mentioned in the other thread, you'll definitely hear a difference. The 320BEE is a great integrated for the money. I owned one for 2-3 years and had no complaints. But it ain't no Naim!

Again, Uniti vs XS/DAC will depend on budget and functional needs. Another plus for the DAC is that it'll take an iPod digital signal. They Uniti won't. The UnitiQute does. I've heard Naim will update the Uniti's oops input, but that was a while ago and still no word on it.

You can't go wrong either way IMO. But if you're undecided, I'd say go XS and DAC, as you'll probably get the upgrade itch sooner. Getting the better one will cost more up front, but it'll usually save even more down the road. Just the way it's been for me and countless others.