Naim NSC 222 – High-Resolution Streaming Preamplifier

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Product Description

The Naim NSC 222 brings high-resolution music streaming, precision analog preamplification, vinyl playback and dedicated headphone amplification together in one component. As part of Naim's New Classic 200 Series, it provides a versatile foundation for a high-performance two-channel HiFi system, combining contemporary digital connectivity with the British manufacturer's established approach to analog audio engineering.

Designed to partner with the Naim NAP 250 power amplifier, the NSC 222 offers balanced XLR and RCA preamplifier outputs, a built-in moving magnet phono stage and headphone amplification derived from the Uniti Atom Headphone Edition. Add support for Qobuz, TIDAL, Spotify Connect, Roon and high-resolution local music libraries, and the NSC 222 becomes the central source and control component for an extensive music collection.

High-Resolution Music Streaming

The NSC 222 incorporates Naim's streaming platform, developed in Salisbury, England, to bring streaming services, internet radio and locally stored music into a unified listening experience.

Native access to Qobuz, TIDAL and Spotify Connect is complemented by Roon Ready certification, Apple AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in and UPnP support. Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity allow the NSC 222 to access compatible network music servers, while two USB-A ports accommodate supported external music storage.

High-resolution playback extends to WAV files at up to 32-bit/384kHz, FLAC and AIFF at up to 24-bit/384kHz, and DSD64 and DSD128. Gapless playback is supported across compatible audio formats, preserving uninterrupted transitions between tracks on live recordings and classical albums.

Precision Analog Preamplification

Beyond its streaming capabilities, the NSC 222 is a dedicated analog preamplifier designed to control a high-performance stereo system.

Its analog input selection includes a stereo RCA connection, an eight-pin DIN input compatible with five-pin DIN cables, and a dedicated moving magnet phono input. Balanced XLR and RCA preamplifier outputs allow the NSC 222 to connect to compatible power amplifiers.

Naim's circuit design and power-supply engineering are intended to preserve low-level musical information while providing stable operation across its digital and analog sections. The NSC 222 is particularly well suited to a New Classic system built around the NAP 250, although its output connections also support other compatible amplification.

Built-In Moving Magnet Phono Stage

Vinyl enthusiasts can connect a turntable fitted with a compatible moving magnet cartridge directly to the NSC 222 without requiring an additional phono preamplifier.

Its integrated MM phono stage provides 40dB of gain, with a specified 47kΩ input impedance and 470pF input capacitance. RIAA equalization is specified within ±0.1dB, supporting accurate playback of records through the same preamplifier used for streaming and other music sources.

For systems using a moving coil cartridge, an appropriate external phono stage can be connected through one of the NSC 222's line-level inputs.

Dedicated Headphone Amplification

The NSC 222 incorporates headphone amplifier technology derived from Naim's Uniti Atom Headphone Edition, extending its capabilities beyond loudspeaker listening.

A front-panel 6.35mm headphone output delivers 1.5 watts into 16 ohms, allowing listeners to enjoy their digital and analog music sources privately without adding a separate headphone amplifier.

This integrated approach is particularly useful in systems that serve both a dedicated stereo listening room and regular headphone listening.

Upgradeable with the Naim NPX 300 Power Supply

The NSC 222 is designed to support future system upgrades through compatibility with the Naim NPX 300 external power supply.

The NPX 300 provides a dedicated external power source engineered for compatible New Classic components. This gives owners an upgrade path without replacing the NSC 222 or changing their existing source connections.

For listeners assembling a complete Naim system, the NSC 222, NAP 250 and optional NPX 300 form a coordinated electronics platform that can be paired with a wide selection of premium loudspeakers.

Focal & Naim App and Multiroom Playback

The Focal & Naim app for iOS and Android provides access to music services, local libraries, radio stations, input selection and system settings.

Naim's Party Mode enables synchronized playback across up to six compatible Naim streamers, allowing the NSC 222 to participate in a multiroom audio system.

For everyday operation, the NSC 222 also includes a bidirectional Zigbee remote control, a backlit volume control and a 5.5-inch color display that presents album artwork and playback information. Four front-panel buttons provide convenient access to frequently used functions.

New Classic Design and Connectivity

The NSC 222 features the substantial aluminum construction and understated styling associated with Naim's New Classic Series. Its full-width chassis is designed to complement the NAP 250 and other components in the range.

In addition to its analog connections, the NSC 222 provides two optical inputs, RCA and BNC coaxial digital inputs, and front and rear USB-A ports. A dedicated optical control output enables synchronized operation with compatible Naim power amplifiers, including the NAP 250 and NAP 350.

This combination of streaming, analog and digital connectivity makes the NSC 222 suitable for systems incorporating a turntable, external digital sources and an extensive network music library.