Audio T Verdict
The Naim NSC 222 combines a network streamer, high-resolution DAC, analogue preamplifier, moving-magnet phono stage and headphone amplifier in one full-width New Classic component. It can sit at the centre of a system containing streamed music, local network files, USB storage, digital sources, line-level equipment, a moving-magnet turntable and headphones.
This is a streaming preamplifier rather than an all-in-one amplifier. Passive loudspeakers cannot be connected directly: the NSC 222 needs a separate power amplifier, with the matching NAP 250 providing the simplest New Classic pairing. Its built-in phono input is for moving-magnet cartridges only, while the powered 8-pin DIN input can support the separate NVC TT for moving-coil or configurable phono use.
An internal linear power supply makes the NSC 222 complete and usable as supplied. The NPX 300 is an optional two-cable power-supply upgrade, not a requirement. A Power-Line Lite, remote control, two link plugs and cleaning cloth are included, but power-amplifier interconnects and loudspeaker cables depend on the chosen system.
Naim NSC 222 Streaming Preamplifier
The NSC 222 is Naim's New Classic 200 Series streaming preamplifier. It brings the company's current streaming platform together with digital and analogue source switching, precision volume control, MM vinyl playback and a dedicated headphone amplifier.
Pair it with a suitable power amplifier and passive loudspeakers to create a complete system. The matching
Naim NAP 250
provides balanced audio connections and system automation, while the variable RCA output also accommodates other compatible power amplifiers, a second amplifier or an active subwoofer.
What It Includes
- Network streamer and high-resolution DAC
- Analogue preamplifier and volume control
- One moving-magnet phono input
- One RCA and one DIN line-level input
- Four S/PDIF digital inputs
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA pre-outs
- 6.35mm headphone output
- Focal and Naim App, front-panel and remote control
What It Does Not Include
- No loudspeaker power amplifier
- No loudspeaker terminals
- No moving-coil input in the built-in phono stage
- No HDMI ARC or eARC connection
- No USB computer-audio input
- No internal music storage or CD mechanism
- No user audio output from the service socket
- No NPX 300 in the standard package
Streamer, DAC and Preamplifier in One Component
The NSC 222 performs the source selection, digital conversion and volume-control duties that would otherwise require several separate components. Music can arrive through the network, a USB storage device, Bluetooth, one of four S/PDIF inputs or the analogue inputs.
Its output is a variable line-level signal for a power amplifier or active subwoofer. It does not contain the high-current output stage needed to drive passive speakers, so the phrase “just add speakers” applies only when the NSC 222 is partnered with a power amplifier such as the NAP 250.
Current Streaming Platform
Naim's NP800 streaming platform supports music services, internet radio, local network libraries and direct playback from compatible phones, tablets and computers. The Focal and Naim App provides browsing, input setup, playback control, presets, multiroom grouping and wireless product updates on iOS and Android.
Current platform support includes Spotify Connect, TIDAL, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz, Qobuz Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Bluetooth, internet radio, UPnP network playback, Roon Ready operation and USB storage playback. Accounts, subscriptions and compatible control devices may be required, and third-party service availability can change.
Apple Music and Other Phone-Based Services
AirPlay 2 allows compatible Apple devices to send system audio, including playback from Apple Music. This is different from a native Apple Music browser inside the Focal and Naim App. Google Cast and Bluetooth provide additional routes from compatible devices and applications.
Wired and Wireless Network Playback
A 10/100 Ethernet socket provides the preferred connection where a network cable is practical. Dual internal Wi-Fi antennas are integrated into the heatsink, supporting 802.11a/b/g/n/ac networking without external aerials.
UPnP playback allows the NSC 222 to access a compatible music server or NAS on the home network. Roon Ready certification allows it to operate as a network endpoint within a licensed Roon system.
USB Storage Playback
USB Type A sockets are fitted at the front and rear for music held on compatible USB storage devices. The ports can also provide up to 1.6A for charging, subject to the connected device and operating conditions.
These are host ports for storage and charging. They are not USB Type B inputs and do not make the NSC 222 a direct USB DAC for a computer.
High-Resolution Digital Architecture
Naim's NP800 streaming card uses low-voltage differential signalling to transfer digital data with reduced noise. Separate master clocks serve the 44.1kHz and 48kHz sample-rate families, while an internal DSP buffer and Naim's integer-oversampling filter process digital audio before conversion.
The conversion stage is based on a PCM1791A DAC followed by discrete filtering. Network and USB playback supports WAV files up to 32-bit/384kHz, FLAC, AIFF and ALAC up to 24-bit/384kHz, plus DSD64 and DSD128. The 384Hz figure seen in some published tables is a typographical error; the intended maximum for FLAC, AIFF and ALAC is 384kHz.
Four S/PDIF Digital Inputs
Two optical TOSLink inputs accept PCM audio up to 24-bit/96kHz. One coaxial RCA and one coaxial BNC input extend support to 24-bit/192kHz and DoP64.
The optical inputs are useful for televisions that can be configured to output two-channel PCM. The NSC 222 has no HDMI ARC connection and does not decode Dolby or DTS multichannel soundtracks, so a connected television must be set to a compatible stereo PCM format.
Analogue Line Inputs
The rear panel provides one stereo RCA line input and one 8-pin DIN input that is compatible with conventional 5-pin DIN source cables. Both line inputs have a published impedance of 47kO, with 2.2V described as a typical input level and 7.5Vrms as the maximum.
Inputs can be renamed, disabled when unused and assigned sensitivity presets through setup. This helps match the operating level and interface of sources such as CD players, tuners, external DACs and phono stages.
Built-In Moving-Magnet Phono Stage
A dedicated RCA phono input supports moving-magnet cartridges. Naim specifies a 47kO and 470pF input, 40dB gain, 5mV nominal sensitivity and RIAA accuracy of plus or minus 0.1dB.
It is not a moving-coil input and does not provide adjustable gain or cartridge loading. A low-output MC cartridge therefore needs a suitable step-up transformer or external phono stage.
Powered Connection for NVC TT
The 8-pin DIN input can supply positive and negative 18V to a compatible external phono stage. This allows the separate
Naim NVC TT
to receive power and return its audio signal through the correct Type 1 connection.
The compatible product is called NVC TT, not NVC 331. The NVC TT supports both moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges and offers wider gain and loading adjustment than the NSC 222's built-in MM input. The required Type 1 cable is supplied with the NVC TT rather than the NSC 222.
Statement-Derived Volume Control
The volume architecture is derived from Naim's Statement preamplifier. Reed relays select precision fixed resistors to provide accurate level steps and channel balance, while a fly-by-wire optical encoder gives the front-panel control its physical operating feel.
Reed-relay input switching and discrete Class A input buffers keep the analogue signal path separate from the control interface. Volume changes made on the unit, in the app or with the bidirectional Zigbee remote are reflected across the control system.
Balanced XLR and RCA Preamplifier Outputs
A balanced XLR pair provides the primary connection to a matching NAP 250 or NAP 350 power amplifier system. Naim specifies a balanced-impedance Class A output stage designed to maintain performance with both ordinary and longer compatible XLR cable runs.
A second variable output is provided on a stereo RCA pair. It can feed a compatible unbalanced power amplifier, a second amplifier for bi-amping or an active subwoofer. The RCA output is a full-range preamplifier signal, so a subwoofer must provide its own level and low-pass filtering controls.
Power-Amplifier Cables
The NSC 222 package does not list XLR interconnects or a system-automation cable. The matching NAP 250 package includes the balanced XLR interconnects and optical system-automation lead required for that pairing. Check cable provision when using another power amplifier.
Dedicated Headphone Amplifier
The front-panel 6.35mm socket is driven by a discrete transistor headphone amplifier developed from the Uniti Atom Headphone Edition architecture. Naim rates it at 1.5W into 16O, operating in Class A and moving into Class AB when higher output is required.
Headphones with 3.5mm, 4.4mm Pentaconn or four-pin XLR plugs require an appropriate adaptor or a different cable. The NSC 222 provides one unbalanced 6.35mm headphone connection.
Display, Front Controls and Zigbee Remote
A 5.5-inch colour display shows album artwork and playback information. Front-panel buttons provide quick access to standby, play or pause, inputs and favourites, alongside the illuminated volume control and dimmable Naim logo.
The supplied bidirectional Zigbee RF remote does not require a direct line of sight. It can control playback, input selection and volume, with level changes reflected by its illuminated volume ring.
Multiroom and System Automation
Naim multiroom operation can group compatible Naim streaming products through the Focal and Naim App. Party Mode can synchronise up to six Naim streamers, subject to network conditions and product compatibility. AirPlay 2 and Google Cast can provide additional grouping options within their respective ecosystems.
A 3.5mm Remote Out connection carries optical system-automation commands to compatible products such as the NAP 250 and NAP 350. With the correct lead, standby and logo illumination can follow the NSC 222. The automation cable is supplied with a matching New Classic power amplifier, not with the NSC 222.
AV Bypass Requires Careful Setup
A line input can be configured for AV bypass so that a home-cinema processor controls the front left and right speaker level. This mode bypasses the NSC 222's normal volume control on the selected input and should only be used with a source that has its own controlled preamplifier output.
Do Not Use AV Bypass with a Fixed-Level Source
Connecting an ordinary fixed-output source to an AV-bypass input can produce an unexpectedly high volume. Confirm the full signal path, switch all equipment off before making connections and test the processor at a low level before normal use.
Internal Power Supply and NPX 300 Upgrade
The NSC 222 is complete with an internal linear power supply based on a large toroidal transformer. A separate low-consumption switch-mode supply manages standby operation, allowing quiescent consumption below 0.5W while keeping the audio supply architecture independent.
The optional
Naim NPX 300
supplies the analogue and digital sections through separate Type 3 and Type 4 Burndy connections. Both supplied link plugs must remain installed when the NSC 222 uses its internal supply. When fitting an NPX 300, the NSC 222 mains lead and both link plugs are removed and only the NPX 300 is connected to mains power.
Power-Supply Compatibility
The direct external power-supply option for the NSC 222 is the NPX 300. Do not substitute an NPX TT, XPS DR, 555 PS DR or an unidentified Burndy cable. The system must be fully switched off and disconnected from mains before link plugs or power-supply cables are changed.
Installation and System Matching
Support the 11kg chassis on a stable, level equipment rack with ventilation around the unit. Keep power supplies and large transformers away from low-level phono wiring, dress signal and mains cables separately where possible and avoid placing a turntable directly above a power amplifier or transformer.
Naim recommends a wired network connection where practical. If Wi-Fi is used, avoid enclosing the unit in metal furniture or placing it where the integrated heatsink antennas are screened from the router or access point.
The rear signal-ground switch should normally remain in its factory position unless system earthing and hum diagnosis indicate otherwise. Only one component in a complete audio system should provide the primary signal-earth connection, and changes should be made with the equipment switched off.
Key Features
- Network streamer, DAC, analogue preamplifier, MM phono stage and headphone amplifier
- Spotify Connect, TIDAL, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz and Qobuz Connect
- Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast and aptX Adaptive Bluetooth
- UPnP, internet radio, USB storage playback and Roon Ready operation
- WAV playback up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD128 support
- Two optical, one coaxial RCA and one coaxial BNC digital input
- Stereo RCA line input and powered 8-pin DIN input
- Dedicated moving-magnet phono input
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA variable outputs
- Discrete 1.5W headphone amplifier with 6.35mm socket
- Statement-derived reed-relay volume control
- 5.5-inch colour display and bidirectional Zigbee remote
- Ethernet, dual-antenna Wi-Fi and Naim multiroom support
- System automation for compatible Naim power amplifiers
- Internal linear power supply with optional NPX 300 upgrade
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the NSC 222 an integrated amplifier?
No. It is a streaming preamplifier. It controls sources and volume but needs a separate power amplifier to drive passive loudspeakers.
Can I connect speakers directly?
Not passive speakers. Connect the NSC 222 to a compatible power amplifier such as the NAP 250, then connect the speakers to that amplifier. Active speakers may be possible if their input sensitivity and connection type suit the NSC 222's variable line output.
Does it have a phono stage?
Yes. It has a built-in moving-magnet phono input with fixed 47kO and 470pF loading. It does not provide a direct moving-coil input.
Can it power the NVC TT?
Yes. The 8-pin DIN can power a compatible NVC TT and receive its audio through the correct Type 1 cable supplied with that phono stage. The product is NVC TT, not NVC 331.
Can I use a moving-coil cartridge?
Not directly with the built-in MM input. Use a suitable step-up transformer or an external moving-coil phono stage such as a correctly configured NVC TT.
Does it have balanced outputs?
Yes. It has a stereo pair of balanced XLR preamplifier outputs, plus a stereo RCA pre-output pair. Both are variable line-level connections, not speaker outputs.
Can I connect a subwoofer?
Yes, if the active subwoofer accepts a compatible line-level signal. The RCA output is full range, so the subwoofer must provide its own level and crossover controls.
Are the NAP 250 connection cables included?
They are not listed in the NSC 222 package. The New Classic NAP 250 is supplied with its balanced XLR interconnects and optical system-automation cable.
Does it have HDMI ARC?
No. A television can instead use an optical input if it can output two-channel PCM. The NSC 222 does not decode Dolby or DTS multichannel audio.
Can I connect a computer by USB?
Not as a direct USB DAC. The two USB Type A ports are for compatible storage devices and charging. A computer can reach the NSC 222 through the network, Roon, AirPlay 2, Google Cast or a suitable S/PDIF interface.
Does it store music internally?
No. It plays from services, a UPnP server or NAS, a Roon system, compatible wireless sources and attached USB storage. It does not contain a hard drive, music-ripping mechanism or CD player.
Is the NSC 222 Roon Ready?
Yes. It can operate as a Roon Ready endpoint when used with a separate licensed Roon server and a suitable home network.
Is the NPX 300 required?
No. The NSC 222 has its own internal power supply and works as supplied. The NPX 300 is an optional upgrade that replaces the internal audio supply during use.
Can I use a 555 PS DR or XPS DR?
No. Naim specifies the NPX 300 as the direct power-supply upgrade for the NSC 222. Its Type 3 and Type 4 connections must be used exactly as described in the product manuals.
What are the supplied link plugs for?
They complete the internal power-supply connections when no NPX 300 is attached. Both must be fitted for normal standalone operation and removed only as part of the correct NPX 300 installation process.
What is AV bypass?
It lets a home-cinema processor control the volume of the front channels through a selected NSC 222 input. It must never be used casually with a fixed-output source because the NSC 222's normal volume control is bypassed on that input.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- NSC 222 and NAP 250 demonstrations by arrangement
- Power-amplifier and loudspeaker matching advice
- Balanced XLR and RCA connection checks
- Network, app and streaming-service setup support
- Turntable, MM cartridge and NVC TT matching
- Headphone suitability and connection advice
- NPX 300 demonstrations and installation guidance
- Equipment-rack, cable-dressing and system-earthing advice
- Part-exchange options on suitable equipment
- Ongoing Naim system and servicing support
Contact your local Audio T store
to arrange a demonstration and confirm the complete power-amplifier, loudspeaker, cable, network and phono requirements for your system.
More Details - Register your Naim Product Today