Naim ND 555 Reference Network Player (open box)

The Naim ND 555 is the flagship network player from Naim's legendary 500 Series, created for listeners who want the highest level of digital playback the company offers in its classic reference range.

Built around Naim's most advanced streaming architecture, the ND 555 combines high-resolution network playback, sophisticated digital processing, extensive mechanical isolation, and a carefully engineered analog output stage in a reference-level source component designed to reveal everything contained in a recording.

The ND 555 does not include an internal power supply and requires a compatible Naim 555 PS DR for operation.

That external power-supply architecture is central to the design, allowing the sensitive digital and analog circuitry inside the player to remain physically separated from the large transformer and power-supply components.

A Reference Digital Source

The ND 555 was developed to do far more than simply stream music.

At its heart is a powerful 40-bit SHARC digital signal processor, working alongside Naim's carefully implemented digital-to-analog conversion architecture and streaming platform.

The player was engineered around the same priorities Naim applies throughout its reference electronics:

• Timing accuracy
• Extremely low noise
• Mechanical isolation
• Stable power delivery
• Signal integrity
• Musical engagement

The result is a digital source designed to preserve the dynamics, scale, detail, and timing of a recording before the signal ever reaches the preamplifier.

High-Resolution Streaming

The ND 555 supports a wide range of modern streaming technologies and network sources.

Compatible options include:

• TIDAL
• Spotify Connect
• Apple AirPlay
• Chromecast Built-In
• Bluetooth with aptX HD
• UPnP high-resolution streaming
• Roon Ready
• Internet radio

The player connects to your home network through Ethernet or Wi-Fi, making it easy to access streaming services as well as locally stored music from compatible NAS drives, computers, and network servers.

Up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD128

The ND 555 supports high-resolution playback across a broad range of file formats.

Supported formats include:

• WAV up to 32-bit/384kHz
• FLAC up to 24-bit/384kHz
• AIFF up to 24-bit/384kHz
• ALAC up to 24-bit/384kHz
• DSD64
• DSD128
• MP3
• AAC
• OGG
• WMA
• M4A

Gapless playback is supported across compatible formats.

For listeners with large high-resolution music libraries, the ND 555 can serve as the central digital source for the entire collection.

Low Voltage Differential Signalling

The ND 555 introduced Low Voltage Differential Signalling, or LVDS, into one of Naim's premium digital players.

LVDS allows high-speed digital communication while helping reduce electrical noise and timing errors.

At this level of digital playback, small improvements in signal transmission and timing can make a meaningful difference in the final analog output.

The ND 555 was engineered with that level of attention throughout.

Suspended Brass Sub-Chassis

Mechanical isolation is another major part of the ND 555 design.

Sensitive circuitry is mounted on a suspended brass sub-chassis, helping isolate critical components from vibration transmitted through the enclosure and equipment rack.

It may seem excessive for a digital source, but Naim approaches vibration control as seriously in its digital products as it does in its analog electronics.

The objective is simple:

Create the quietest possible environment for the circuits responsible for processing and converting the music signal.

Four Digital Inputs

The ND 555 can also serve as a high-end digital hub for external sources.

It provides four S/PDIF digital inputs:

• 2 x Optical TOSLink — up to 24-bit/96kHz
• 1 x Coaxial RCA — up to 24-bit/192kHz, DoP DSD64
• 1 x Coaxial BNC — up to 24-bit/192kHz, DoP DSD64

This allows compatible CD transports and other digital sources to take advantage of the ND 555's DAC and analog output stage.

Analog Outputs

The ND 555 includes both traditional Naim and conventional analog output options:

• 1 x Stereo RCA
• 1 x 5-pin DIN

That makes the player equally comfortable in a full Naim system or paired with high-end preamplifiers and integrated amplifiers from other manufacturers.

Control and Display

A large 5-inch color LCD display provides album artwork, track information, input selection, and system status.

Control options include:

• Front-panel controls
• Metal Zigbee RF remote
• Naim App for iOS and Android

The Naim App provides access to streaming services, internet radio, local music libraries, inputs, playlists, and compatible Naim multiroom products.

Naim Multiroom

The ND 555 can also integrate into a larger Naim multiroom system.

Using Party Mode, compatible Naim streaming products can be synchronized throughout the home and controlled from the Naim App.

This allows the ND 555 to remain the reference source in the main listening room while other Naim products extend music into additional spaces.

External Power Supply Required

The ND 555 does not contain a conventional internal mains power supply.

It requires a compatible Naim 555 PS DR for operation.

This is not simply an optional upgrade path. The external power supply is part of the player's fundamental architecture.

By moving the transformer and power regulation into a separate enclosure, Naim reduces electromagnetic interference and vibration around the ND 555's sensitive digital and analog circuitry.

For even more ambitious systems, the ND 555 can also be configured with two 555 PS DR power supplies.

Naim ND 555 Specifications

Type: Reference Network Music Player
Series: Naim 500 Series
Power Supply: External 555 PS DR required
Maximum PCM Resolution: Up to 32-bit/384kHz
DSD Support: DSD64 and DSD128
Display: 5" color LCD
Network: Ethernet 10/100Mbps and Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac
Bluetooth: aptX HD
Roon: Roon Ready
Multiroom: Naim Party Mode

Digital Inputs

2 x Optical TOSLink — up to 24-bit/96kHz
1 x Coaxial RCA — up to 24-bit/192kHz, DoP DSD64
1 x Coaxial BNC — up to 24-bit/192kHz, DoP DSD64

USB

2 x USB Type-A — front and rear

Analog Outputs

1 x Stereo RCA
1 x 5-pin DIN

Dimensions

17.01" W x 3.43" H x 12.36" D
(432 x 87 x 314 mm)

Weight

27.0 lbs.
(12.25 kg)

Finish

Brushed and anodized aluminum

What's Included

• Naim ND 555 Reference Network Player
• Analog Burndy interconnect
• Digital Burndy interconnect
• Hi-Line interconnect
• Metal Zigbee remote control
• BNC-to-RCA adapter
• Wi-Fi antennas
• Bluetooth antenna
• Cleaning cloth
• Quick Start Guide
• Factory documentation

Please Note: A Naim 555 PS DR power supply is required for operation and is sold separately.

The Grid's Take on the ND 555

The ND 555 is for the listener who treats the digital source with the same seriousness traditionally reserved for turntables, cartridges, phono stages, and reference analog electronics.

It isn't trying to win on the number of streaming services printed on the box.

Its real story is what Naim has done around the digital signal itself.

Isolation. Timing. Power. Regulation. Conversion. Analog output.

That's what separates the ND 555 from a conventional network streamer.

Paired with a 555 PS DR, it becomes a natural source for a reference Naim system built around components such as the NAC 552 and NAP 500, but it can just as easily serve as the digital front end of a world-class system built around other reference electronics.

At The Grid HiFi & Home Theater, we can help match the ND 555 with the appropriate 555 PS DR, amplification, cabling, equipment support, networking, and loudspeakers for a complete reference system.