Naim Nait 5i - Headphone amp in tape loop

[admin_exported]

Hi, I'm looking at upgrading my NAD C350 at some point and one amp on the audition list is going to be the Nait 5i. I listen with headphones a reasonable amount and obviously the Nait 5i doesnt have a headphone output, so a headphone amp is required (which is a good thing really!). I've seen that the most common way to connect one is through the tape loop out, but this is where I get a wee bit confused. So the Nait 5i has 4 inputs, with one of those being the tape loop. Now, on my NAD, which has two tape loops, when loop 2 is selected its just like selecting another input except that obviously a signal is sent out as well. If loop 1 is selected though, it has the monitor function so that although the CD may be sent through the output, you are actually listening to the playback from the tape. Right, so my question is, on the Nait 5i. If I had a headphone amp connected to tape loop output and a source connected to the tape loop input, when I press the tape button, how does the monitoring work? The manual is a bit hazy but I think there is a monitor button on the remote? Are any of the inputs (inlcuding the tape input) monitorable through the tape out? Hope that makes at least some sense!! Cheers!

 

[Andrew Everard]

I assume you're asking whether, with a headphone amp connected to the output section of the tape loop, you could listen to a source connected to the input leg of the same loop. I should think so, but your best bet would be to contact Naim's customer support people on + 44 (0) 1722 426600 - they're usually very helpful indeed.

 

[Anonymous]

if you are interested in getting the best sound quality from this setup, i would recommend connect the source directly into headphone amp. obviously this isnt as convenient but if quality is something you prefer above convenience...
also, this means you can use your best interconnects to connect your source and the headphone amp as well.