There is a great value visiting audio stores because it is one of the best ways to uncover new gear and get recommendations.
So recently I visited one of the stores and exited with an unexpected companion.
I was shocked that such a small box provided such a refined level of sonics. And especially when I asked for the price, I was even more shocked.
This affordable network player from Primare is truly a diamond in the rough.
Build Quality and Companion Application
It is a small, portable, sturdy player that will bring you the joys of streaming for a modest price, but it will deliver far above its pay grade. It is a small box that is built with quality and sturdiness.
The application that goes with it is very minimal, a basic application that is nothing special interface-wise, but functionally it does all the jobs well.
As this being a network player, you will mostly spend time in the streaming application of your choice unless you play most of your music via USB or some music server.
Sound Quality
It's incredible; when I first heard it, I thought that I was listening to music from something far more expensive like Cambridge Audio CXN2 or Neo Stream, Fiio R7, or even Eversolo DMPA6. All of these devices are 1000 plus euros. But no, it is this small, tiny box full of wonders that can go toe to toe with them, if not even better.
The sound had clarity and articulation as well. What I found most interesting was how well instruments feel and sound on the soundstage. There is separation and three-dimensionality to them, which brings many instruments but also vocals to the center of my attention.
It is not something I expected from this device; how mature and refined it can sound. There is a lot of joy in my heart when vocals do sing to me, or at least that I feel that the singer is specifically singing to me.
The way that this presentation works is very neutral and clear.
Listening to David Sylvian, I relished in how much I enjoyed myself, especially his newer stuff, where he sings like a distinguished English gentleman. His singing has weight and presence, similar to how singers like David Bowie, Leonard Cohen, and Bob Dylan have embraced this more refined, mature, deep singing to melodic one in their late career. It is there that everything good about this streamer works, as David's vocals have presence, shape, lane, and weight to it with reach and transparency. And yet, it all feels so natural and very balanced.
Some problems, and what I would improve for MK III
One problem I can think of is the physical nature. Many people choose a music streamer for their convenience. Devices like Naim Uniti Atom or NAD's Master series are so popular as they are all-in-one devices. Just plug and play with awesome sound, features, and comfort. And it takes less space in your listening room.
Here is the case of a network player that requires a separate DAC. It needs a separate DAC or an integrated amp with a DAC. They have poured all the effort into creating the best-sounding player possible for the money. And that meant removing the DAC. So, it will require additional investments to fully work and it will take more space in your room to connect, power up, and use this device.
But on that note, with an additional separate DAC, this device can easily pair with 1000+ music streamers. And this device will grow as the quality of your gear grows and becomes better with time. So it has a big upper ceiling to what this player can achieve.
Cambridge Audio MXN10
The main competition is Cambridge Audio MXN10. I extensively auditioned for both until I made my decision. MXN10's big plus comes as it is equipped already with a DAC. But to me, Primare was just a better choice. The sound was more mature, defined, transparent, and natural. MXN10 had a bit more musicality and rhythm to it, as it delivered a bit more punch. It felt a tad bit more alive than Primare. But my attention went more towards NP5 as my enjoyment of listening to music extended far more than appreciating the good rhythm and drive that MXN10 provided. I appreciated the amount of openness and presentation and refinement that NP5 provided. But it is that MXN10 is a cheaper and more convenient device. If you are on a budget, this device is a must. But it will eventually get capped by the lacking of the ability to expand its sound with an external DAC, while Primare will grow with it.
Bluesound Node
I would also like to add a very popular Bluesound Node to this comparison. The main strength of Bluesound Node compared to Primare NP5 is that it comes equipped with a DAC. And it is a more feature-rich device as it brings MQA unfolding into the mix. Both devices are ROON-ready. So, it is a more versatile and easier choice to use. But levels of clarity, soundstage, and definition go for Primare. BlueSound Node was a tad punchier and a bit dynamically open, but the sound quality of Primare is much more bang for the buck. When paired with a good DAC, they come where about the same price.
Conclusion
In the end, as we live in an age of convenience, and Music Streamers bring those, it is always a question of are you ready to break your comfort with the addition of more separates. As I have a lot of separate gear, adding this network player was a no-brainer. I Love it, and I strongly believe it will grow with me as my gear becomes more mature. If you want a talented player that brings nuance, maturity, and transparency from well-produced music, then NP5 is your next network streamer.
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