Naim Hi-Line Analogue Interconnect

Hi-Line was developed alongside Naim's reference CD555 project as a complete signal-connection system rather than a simple change of conductor material. Its cable geometry, screening, dielectric materials, connector metal content and mechanical decoupling were considered together.

The result is a directional stereo analogue interconnect with DIN, RCA or mixed terminations. Selecting the correct version is essential because a connector that physically fits may still have the wrong pin configuration or signal direction for the intended components.

Five Current Connector Versions

Audio T currently lists the following selectable Hi-Line versions:

• Two RCA to two RCA, 1.5m
• Two RCA to 5-pin DIN, 1.5m
• 4-pin DIN to two RCA, 1.5m
• 4-pin DIN to 5-pin DIN, 1.2m
• 5-pin DIN to 5-pin DIN, 1.5m

The connector order describes the required signal path. Check the output of the source component and the input of the receiving component rather than choosing only by the sockets visible on each product.

Confirm Both Socket Type and Signal Direction

RCA connections use separate left and right plugs. Naim DIN sockets can combine the two channels and signal ground within one connector, but 4-pin and 5-pin versions serve different connection arrangements and cannot be substituted simply because both are DIN.

Before ordering, identify the exact model and socket used at each end. Some components provide both DIN and RCA sockets, while others have dedicated input or output arrangements. Follow the equipment manuals and ask Audio T to verify any uncertain combination.

Patented Air-PLUG Decoupling

Naim designed the Air-PLUG as a mechanical decoupling device. Multiple rear sections clip together to form a flexible, lossy structure between the connector and the cable, helping to reduce vibration travelling from one component to another through the interconnect.

The same structure is intended to reduce the transfer of airborne vibration collected by the cable into the connected equipment. A compliant clamp holds the cable without crushing it and unnecessarily changing its electrical behaviour.

Reduced Metal Connector Design

The Air-PLUG design uses substantially less metal than a conventional heavy connector. Naim states that this helps reduce electromagnetic and eddy-current effects around the termination.

This low-mass approach means the connector should not be treated like a rigid, heavily clamped plug. Hold the connector body during installation or removal and avoid pulling on the cable or flexible rear sections.

Litz Conductors and Twisted-Pair Geometry

The cable uses a Naim-specific twisted-pair construction made from 80 Litz conductors. Litz construction separates the fine conductor strands with insulation, while the paired geometry keeps the relevant signal paths in a controlled relationship.

Two cable assemblies are placed side by side to carry the left and right analogue channels. Naim describes the design as holding signal and radio-frequency grounds in a stable position relative to one another.

Layered Insulation and Screening

The conductor pairs are surrounded by PTFE, Kapton and further PTFE tape, followed by a semi-conductive shield intended to reduce static charge. Two spiral-wound copper shields and lapped PTFE tape provide additional screening.

The two channel assemblies are wrapped together in further PTFE layers and protected by a black rubber outer covering. Audio T publishes a cable cross-section of approximately 9.25 x 5.30mm.

Directional Installation

Naim analogue interconnects are directional. The marked or banded end connects to the signal source, with the opposite end connected to the receiving input. The connector types may make the direction obvious on some mixed-termination versions, but the markings should still be checked before installation.

Switch off the connected equipment before changing cables. Insert each connector squarely without forcing it, and confirm that the left and right RCA channels are correctly matched where separate plugs are used.

Cable Routing and Air-PLUG Care

Route Hi-Line in a relaxed curve with enough length for the connectors to sit naturally. Avoid tight coils, sharp bends, twisting, stretched runs and pressure from the rear wall or adjacent plugs. The flexible Air-PLUG section should not be used to support the weight of a hanging cable.

Keep the signal cable away from mains leads and power-supply transformers where practical. If cables must cross, a loose right-angle crossing is generally preferable to running analogue signal and mains cables closely together for a long distance.

DIN or RCA?

Naim recommends DIN connections where compatible DIN and RCA alternatives are both available on its equipment. Compatibility remains more important than connector preference, and only one parallel input connection should be used where a product provides both socket types for the same input.

RCA versions allow Hi-Line to connect suitable equipment that does not provide the required Naim DIN socket. Mixed variants must be chosen in the correct direction: RCA output to DIN input is not the same product as DIN output to RCA input.

System Matching

Hi-Line is most straightforward between components whose manuals specify the relevant socket types and signal direction. Model generations can differ, so a cable suitable for one Naim source and amplifier combination may not be correct for another.

For non-Naim equipment, verify that the electrical connection, channel assignment, grounding and direction are compatible as well as the physical connector. Audio T can check both products before the cable is ordered.

Cleaning and Handling

Disconnect the equipment from the mains before handling rear-panel connections. Keep plug contacts clean and dry, and do not use contact enhancers or treatments that leave a film. Hold the plug rather than the cable when disconnecting it.

Store the cable in a broad, relaxed coil when it is not installed. Do not fold it tightly, place heavy objects on it or attempt to dismantle the Air-PLUG assemblies.

Key Features

• Two-channel line-level analogue interconnect
• Patented Naim Air-PLUG mechanical decoupling system
• Twisted-pair construction using 80 Litz conductors
• PTFE and Kapton dielectric layers
• Semi-conductive layer for static-charge reduction
• Two spiral-wound copper shields
• Five current connector versions
• 1.5m length for four selectable variants
• 1.2m length for the 4-pin DIN to 5-pin DIN variant
• Direction marker identifies the source end
• Black rubber outer covering

Frequently Asked Questions

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