Enough power?

[admin_exported]

Experts...will a Naim Nait XS have sufficient power to run a pair of B&W 805s’? I want to setup a demo but the dealer does not have one in stock so I'll have to hear them with a SuperNait until one becomes available.

Btw, I’ve heard about the Naim – Neat synergy but it’s unfortunately not available where I live..
Thanks in advance.

 

[Anonymous]

The figure you are interested in is the speaker sensitivity in dB/W at 1 metre.

Generally B&W speakers sound better with lots of power but I doubt this will be a problem with Naim unless you like Heavy Metal at concert volumes or have a lounge the size of a football pitch!

 

[pwiles1968]

805s from the B&W web site

Sensitivity 88dB spl (2.83V, 1m)

Nominal Impedance 8O (minimum 3.7O)

Recommended Amplifier Power 50W - 120W into 8O on unclipped programme

The Naim Quotes Uniti as 50W in to 8 Ohm and Supernait as 80W, I don't know if they are conservative with their figures, I have been told the 805's are easy to drive versus the other 800 series, and I do not have an issue with mine but I am Bi-Amping with around 125W available per driver so not a fair comparison.

If it is the same dealer you intend ordering the Uniti from i would get them to guarantee the demo unit is equivalent in performance if that is all they have, and I would listen to the Uniti before you take it away after they order one in.

 

[Frank Harvey]

It'll drive them to a point, just don't go having parties

They will benefit from more amplification at some point though.

 

[Anonymous]

I want to emphasise Naim Nait XS and not Naim Unity, I think you guys might have misread my initial posting, but thanks for your thoughts thus far.

If the Nait XS is indeed 'only' sufficient then will the addition of a FlatCap power supply be a good option? I'm looking for a long term solution so, again, just looking forward to your idea's on what to request in my upcoming demo.

 

[Anonymous]

Have you considered Roksan Caspian M-1 integrated? Probably worth a listen (85 wpc). I have not heard it but I have the K2 and like it a lot.