Naim CDS3 CD Player - Black (NO XPS CABLE)

Naim CDS3 CD Player — VAM 1202 / Clamp 5 — Naim Classic Series

The Naim CDS3 occupies a special place in Naim’s history. Introduced in 2002 as the successor to the highly regarded CDS2, the CDS3 was Naim’s reference two-box CD player and remained in production until 2012.

Designed from the ground up around Naim’s philosophy of extracting the maximum musical performance from the CD format, the CDS3 combines a carefully isolated top-loading transport with sophisticated digital and analogue circuitry. Its two-box architecture separates the player from its external power supply, reflecting Naim’s long-standing approach of keeping sensitive audio circuitry isolated from power-supply noise and interference.

This particular CDS3 is especially interesting for the Naim collector or enthusiast because it has been fitted with the later Philips VAM 1202 transport mechanism and Naim Clamp 5 magnetic puck. Naim confirms that the VAM 1202 installation uses the Clamp 5, distinguishing it from the original CDS3's VAM 1250 mechanism and Clamp 4.

The CDS3's digital section employs Pacific Microsonics HDCD filtering and Burr-Brown PCM1704-K 24-bit DACs, while the player retains the distinctive Naim presentation for which the CDS series became so highly regarded: exceptionally precise timing, rhythmic drive, dynamics and an engaging sense of musical flow.

A particularly desirable classic Naim CD player

For those who appreciate the classic Naim approach to digital playback, the CDS3 remains a fascinating piece of the company's history. It represents the mature development of Naim's original CDS philosophy while retaining the physical, mechanical and electrical engineering that made the company's flagship CD players so distinctive.

The later VAM 1202 / Clamp 5 configuration is an important detail for collectors and experienced Naim owners, and should be clearly distinguished from an untouched early CDS3 fitted with the original VAM 1250 mechanism. Naim has confirmed that early CDS3 units could be updated to the VAM 1202 mechanism, which required the new Clamp 5.

Transport: Philips VAM 1202
CD clamp: Naim Clamp 5 magnetic puck
DAC: Burr-Brown PCM1704-K 24-bit
Digital filtering: Pacific Microsonics HDCD
Outputs: Naim DIN and RCA analogue outputs
Format: Audio CD / CD-R / CD-RW
External power supply: Naim XPS or CD555PS

This listing is for the Naim CDS3 CD player only. NO XPS or CD555PS power supply is included.

IMPORTANT — NO XPS / POWER SUPPLY INCLUDED!

The CDS3 requires a compatible external Naim power supply to operate. A Naim XPS or CD555PS is required, making this an ideal opportunity for an existing Naim owner who already has the appropriate power supply, or for a collector assembling a classic Naim system.

The unit is in excellent used condition unless otherwise noted. Please see photos carefully for the cosmetic condition and included accessories.

A wonderful opportunity to acquire one of Naim's most significant and sought-after classic CD players, particularly in this later VAM 1202 / Clamp 5 configuration.

For additional information, please message Dan for details.

Terms:
• Canadian purchases: EMT/payments accepted
• PayPal fees not included
• Shipping not included
• No trades
• Duties, brokerage, and customs fees not included