Naim SuperNait 3 vs Simaudio Ace (Hegel?)


Hi.  Looking to purchase new integrated to feed Totem Forests from a Benchmark DAC 1 USB (computer or tv into dac).  Mainly rock, trance, edm on the music side.  Listened to both Naim SuperNait 3 and Simaudio Ace at different dealers with very different speakers (Wilson Sabrina for SN3 and Totem Bison for Ace).

Overall, preferred the Naim sound.  Also, understand it runs fairly cool which is a definite plus in my configuration.  No digital inputs/dac but not essential given existing though quite aged dac.  

The Simaudio Ace has many digital inputs and current dac technology.  We were streaming Tidal and would probably subscribe at some point.

Have not heard Hegel H190 but they seem well regarded and hope to demo next week or so.

Would appreciate members guidance on:

1) Matching these amps with Totem Forest (recommended 50-100 watts, 8 ohms, min 6.2 ohms per website).

2) Does the Ace (or Hegel) run pretty hot.  (It will be in large but cabinet - I know not the best).

3) Plan on keeping for many years (probably 10+).  Naim, Simaudio seem very solid on this front.  Any views on Hegel longevity/build quality - designed in Olso, manufactured in China.

Thanks,

Dokosan

 

dokosan

I have been a Naim fan/user for many year, so I am biased. Matter of fact I had a Supernait 3. It does not run hot, or even very warm. All Naim gear runs cool 

You cannot go wrong  with Naim. Great sound, great service, great resale. Always available upgrades with power supplies.

I had a Hegel 160? I believe. Was ok, but not the rhythm of Naim

Thanks for the responses.  Leaning toward Naim.  A little concerned about the speaker cabling.  Using Transparent.