I've just acquired a CB NAC62/NAP90 and a pair of EPOS ES 11s. Small system I know, but I'm thrilled to bits as I've been hankering after a CB naim set up for ages. The kit is all 'as new' - amazing how 1980s naim stands the test of time. A quick peak under the hood reveals boards exactly as they should be, with no mods etc. I know the 11s could probably do with a bit more shunt, but I'm starting with the 90 and we'll see how things progress along the upgrade trail.

So as a naim novice, I need some advice and apologies in advance if some of these questions can be filed under 'you really should know that already, sonny'.

Speaker cables - does it have to be NAC A5? are there any common alternatives? Do the square naim speaker plugs offer better sound that regular 4mm plugs?

CD connection - what's the best way to connect CD player (RCA) to the NAC 62? Do I need straight-through boards and phono adapters? can I run through the aux / tuner inputs?

again, sorry for the v basic nature of my questions - but I want to get started! Didn't by the CBs just to look at them (although they look very nice indeed!)

cheers,
Philip

The kit is all 'as new' - amazing how 1980s naim stands the test of time.

...something which contributors to 'The Rant' thread would do well to note.

For any connections questions, try the manuals: http://www.naim-audio.com/products/intro_manuals.html

You don't need to use NACA5.
Get a phono to DIN connector from the Chord Company and use the tape/aux input on the 62.

Just connect your CD through the Aux or Tuner inputs. Good cables can be bought for sensible money from Flashback or Nene Valley Audio (NVA).

http://www.flashbacksales.co.uk/acatalog/index.html

http://stores.ebay.co.uk/nene-valley-audio

thanks for the advice on the CD - any thoughts on speaker cable selection?
cheers
Philip

Lots of things work OK

Nac A4 is cheaper than A5 and only marginally less good

It also happens to be the same stuff as Linn k20 and exposure cable under different branding.

QED 79 strand works OK but isn't quite as good as NAC A4 or A5

Any pretty solid dumbell shaped cable would probably also be OK like the original monster cable or quite a lot of the unbranded stuff available from maplins and RS.

A bit of 4mm2 mains lead does quite a good job too.

The expensive naim 4mm plugs are no better than the cheapest Deltron ones you can buy. Use that alloy finish rather than anything gold or silver plated.

thanks to all for your help! The ES 11s turned up today and they are great - very heavy and solid. The speakers have bi-wire inputs but no binding posts. so what's the best way of linking it all up? again, I know this is rudamentry stuff...

And would I benefit from a SNAPS / Hi Cap for the NAC 62?
ta
P