Audio T Verdict
The Naim CI-Uniti 102 combines network streaming, television and external-source inputs, configurable DSP and powerful stereo amplification in a compact 1U custom-installation product. It can operate as a complete single-room system or form the source and control centre for a larger Naim CI installation.
Its two amplified channels deliver 150W per channel into 8 ohms or 260W per channel into 4 ohms. A main stereo RCA output and a separately configurable Sub or Aux stereo RCA output allow external power amplifiers, active subwoofers or additional zones to be incorporated.
Focal and Naim Manager provides installer-level DSP configuration, while the Focal and Naim app handles everyday playback and control. Correct speaker profile, output routing, crossover, limiter, room correction and level settings should be established when the system is commissioned.
Naim CI-Uniti 102 All-in-One Streaming Amplifier
The CI-Uniti 102 is the streaming and control hub of Naim's CI Series. It brings music services, local network playback, television sound, analogue and digital sources together with a two-channel power amplifier in a compact chassis designed for discreet installation.
It can power a compatible pair of passive loudspeakers directly, send processed analogue audio to external amplifiers, integrate an active subwoofer and control additional CI-NAP power amplifiers through wired triggers.
All-in-One for Custom Installation
The CI-Uniti 102 contains the streamer, digital-to-analogue conversion, DSP, system control and stereo power amplification required for a complete installed audio system.
It does not have the front display, conventional remote handset or extensive front-panel controls of a living-room Uniti player. Routine operation is through the Focal and Naim app or a compatible home-automation system.
System Applications
Single-Room Music System
- Two amplified loudspeaker channels
- Wired and wireless music streaming
- App-based playback and volume control
- Speaker profiles and room DSP
- Optional active subwoofer connection
Television Audio
- HDMI eARC input
- Stereo LPCM up to 192kHz and 24-bit
- Suitable for a two-channel television system
- TV must provide a compatible stereo PCM signal
- Not specified as a multichannel surround decoder
Expanded CI System
- Main and Sub or Aux stereo RCA outputs
- 12V trigger outputs for compatible power amplifiers
- CI-NAP 108 channel expansion
- Naim multiroom for up to 32 devices per session
- Home-automation driver support
Wired and Wireless Music Streaming
The CI-Uniti 102 supports TIDAL, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, UPnP playback with a play queue, internet radio and podcasts. Apple AirPlay 2 and Chromecast provide convenient casting from compatible mobile devices and applications.
Bluetooth Classic Audio reception supports SBC and AAC codecs for direct playback from a phone, tablet or computer. Bluetooth is useful for guests and occasional sources, while wired Ethernet or Wi-Fi normally provides the more fully integrated network experience.
Streaming-service availability, account requirements and features can change by territory. Paid subscriptions are not included with the product, and the relevant service must remain available on Naim's platform.
Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6 and Dante Reception
A Gigabit Ethernet connection supports 10, 100 and 1000 Mbps networks with IPv4 and IPv6 compatibility. Wi-Fi 6 uses a 2 by 2 MIMO connection and an external antenna, providing a wireless option where a cable cannot be installed.
For a fixed rack system, wired Ethernet is normally preferable because it provides predictable connectivity for control, streaming and software updates. Network design should also account for managed switches, VLANs, wireless coverage and internet access where required.
Dante receiver mode accepts a 48kHz network-audio feed and is configured through Focal and Naim Manager. The CI-Uniti 102 is described as a Dante receiver, so it should not be assumed to provide Dante transmission, matrix control or every feature of a dedicated Dante interface.
Roon Compatibility
Naim's published CI-Uniti 102 feature list does not identify the product as Roon Ready. Do not buy it on the assumption that it provides native Roon integration.
Playback from a Roon system may be possible through another supported route, but the exact function and limitations should be confirmed before the system is specified.
Powerful Stereo Amplification
The built-in amplifier provides two channels rated at 150W per channel into 8 ohms and 260W per channel into 4 ohms. Loudspeakers can be connected through the terminal block or Euroblock arrangement, with support for 4 mm banana connectors where applicable.
Speaker impedance, sensitivity, power handling, cable length and required sound level must all be considered. A high power figure does not by itself establish compatibility with every installed or conventional passive loudspeaker.
The published amplifier frequency response is 5Hz to 70kHz at minus 3dB, with 29dB gain, a 110dB A-weighted signal-to-noise ratio and total harmonic distortion plus noise below 0.006 percent at 1kHz.
Focal Speaker Profiles and DSP
Focal and Naim Manager provides access to Focal speaker profiles for compatible custom-installation loudspeakers. These profiles give the installer a defined starting point for configuring the electronics to suit the connected model.
The DSP supports equalisation, limiters, room correction, time alignment and active crossover functions. These tools can optimise an installed system, protect suitable loudspeakers and integrate subwoofers or externally amplified channels.
DSP configuration should be carried out by someone who understands the loudspeaker limits, room acoustics and intended output routing. Incorrect filter, limiter or crossover settings can reduce performance or place connected equipment at risk.
Main and Sub or Aux RCA Outputs
The CI-Uniti 102 provides four line-output channels arranged as two stereo RCA pairs. One pair is identified as the main output and the second as the Sub or Aux output.
The outputs can be configured through the DSP for external power amplifiers, active subwoofers, active crossover systems or an auxiliary zone. Their exact signal, level and filter behaviour depends on the commissioned configuration.
These four line channels are not four additional built-in power-amplifier channels. Passive loudspeakers require the amplified outputs or a suitable external amplifier such as the CI-NAP 108 or CI-NAP 101.
Analogue and S/PDIF Inputs
A stereo RCA analogue input accepts compatible line-level sources. Naim specifies a 47-kilohm input impedance and a 2.5V RMS input reference.
A turntable cannot normally be connected directly unless it has a suitable built-in phono stage. A conventional turntable requires an external phono pre-amplifier between the cartridge and the CI-Uniti 102.
The S/PDIF digital input accepts audio up to 96kHz and 24-bit. Check the source's digital-output format and physical connector before ordering any interconnect.
HDMI eARC for Television Sound
HDMI eARC allows a compatible television to send stereo audio to the CI-Uniti 102. The published input specification supports stereo LPCM up to 192kHz and 24-bit.
No Dolby or DTS multichannel decoder is listed. The television or connected source should therefore be configured to output compatible two-channel PCM rather than a multichannel bitstream.
HDMI control behaviour and volume synchronisation depend on the television, cable and system configuration. These functions should be tested during installation rather than assumed from connector compatibility alone.
Naim Multiroom
Naim Multiroom supports up to 32 compatible devices in a single session and is designed to work across generations of Naim streaming products. This allows synchronised playback to be shared around a suitably configured property.
The 32-device figure does not mean one CI-Uniti 102 contains 32 separately amplified rooms. Additional rooms require their own compatible players, amplifiers and loudspeakers, together with sufficient network capacity.
App, Manager and Automation Control
The Focal and Naim app for iOS and Android provides everyday source selection, browsing, playback, volume control and access to relevant product settings. Wireless software updates are also initiated through the app.
Focal and Naim Manager runs on Windows and macOS and is intended for configuration rather than routine listening. It provides the installer with DSP, speaker-profile and Dante setup functions.
Home-automation drivers are available for Control4, Crestron, Elan, RTI and Savant. The chosen driver, network design and control interface should be confirmed with the installer because available commands can differ between platforms and software versions.
Trigger Outputs and CI Power-Amplifier Expansion
Two 3.5mm mono-jack 12V trigger outputs can control standby on compatible external amplifiers. This supports coordinated power operation when a CI-NAP 108 or other suitable CI amplifier expands the number of loudspeaker channels.
Trigger polarity, current capability, cable wiring and the connected product's accepted voltage must be checked before connection. A trigger carries control voltage only and must not be connected to an audio input.
Compact 1U Rack Installation
The CI-Uniti 102 chassis measures 44.5mm high, 300mm wide and 300mm deep, with a weight of 4.5kg. Supplied rack brackets allow the narrower chassis to fit a standard 19-inch rack while occupying 1U.
Rear connections, external wireless antennas, cable bend radius and access for servicing must be included in the rack plan. The quick-start guidance specifies at least 5cm around the product for ventilation.
Naim states that the CI-Uniti 102 can power outdoor loudspeakers, but the electronics are designed for indoor installation. The amplifier must not be mounted outdoors or exposed to water, condensation or excessive heat.
Mains and Thermal Planning
The power supply accepts 100V to 240V AC at 50Hz or 60Hz. Nominal consumption is 70W, maximum consumption is 1000W and standby consumption is 0.5W.
Naim publishes heat output figures of 120 BTU per hour in operation, 70 BTU per hour at idle and 1.7 BTU per hour in standby. Operating temperature is specified from 5°C to 35°C.
The mains connection must remain correctly earthed and accessible for disconnection. Rack ventilation and circuit capacity should be planned alongside every additional CI power amplifier in the installation.
Key Features
- All-in-one custom-installation streaming amplifier
- 150W per channel into 8 ohms
- 260W per channel into 4 ohms
- TIDAL, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz and Spotify Connect
- UPnP, internet radio and podcasts
- Apple AirPlay 2 and Chromecast
- Bluetooth with SBC and AAC reception
- Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6
- 48kHz Dante receiver mode
- HDMI eARC stereo television input
- S/PDIF and stereo RCA inputs
- Main and Sub or Aux stereo RCA outputs
- Focal and Naim speaker profiles
- Equalisation, limiter, room correction, time alignment and active crossover DSP
- Focal and Naim app control
- Focal and Naim Manager configuration
- Control4, Crestron, Elan, RTI and Savant integration
- Two 12V trigger outputs
- 1U 19-inch rack installation
Technical Specifications
- Product type: All-in-one streaming amplifier
- Amplified channels: Two
- Line-output channels: Four
- Power output per channel into 8 ohms: 150W
- Power output per channel into 4 ohms: 260W
- Maximum supported sampling rate: 32-bit and 384kHz
- Analogue input: Stereo RCA
- Analogue input impedance: 47 kilohms
- Analogue input reference: 2.5V RMS
- S/PDIF input: Up to 96kHz and 24-bit
- HDMI input: eARC, stereo LPCM up to 192kHz and 24-bit
- Main line output: One stereo RCA pair
- Sub or Aux line output: One stereo RCA pair
- Amplified outputs: Terminal block or Euroblock with 4 mm banana compatibility where applicable
- Streaming services: TIDAL, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz and Spotify Connect
- Additional streaming: UPnP, internet radio, podcasts, Apple AirPlay 2 and Chromecast
- Bluetooth audio: Classic Audio receiver with SBC and AAC
- Dante: Receiver mode at 48kHz
- Multiroom: Naim Multiroom with up to 32 compatible devices in one session
- Ethernet: RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet, IPv4 and IPv6
- Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6, 2 by 2 MIMO, external antenna
- Bluetooth control radio: Bluetooth LE 5.1 with shared external antenna
- App: Focal and Naim app for iOS and Android
- Configuration software: Focal and Naim Manager for Windows and macOS
- Automation: Control4, Crestron, Elan, RTI and Savant drivers
- Wired control: Two 3.5mm mono-jack 12V trigger outputs
- Analogue gain: 29dB
- Total harmonic distortion and noise: Less than 0.006 percent at 1kHz
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 110dB, A-weighted
- Frequency response: 5Hz to 70kHz at minus 3dB
- Mains supply: 100V to 240V AC, plus or minus 10 percent, 50Hz or 60Hz
- Nominal power consumption: 70W
- Maximum power consumption: 1000W
- Standby consumption: 0.5W
- Operating heat output: 120 BTU per hour
- Idle heat output: 70 BTU per hour
- Standby heat output: 1.7 BTU per hour
- Rack format: 1U with 19-inch rack brackets
- Dimensions: 44.5mm high by 300mm wide by 300mm deep
- Weight: 4.5kg
- Operating temperature: 5°C to 35°C
- Storage temperature: Minus 20°C to 60°C
- Installation environment: Indoor use only
Streaming services, integration drivers and network features can change through software or third-party service updates. Confirm any feature essential to the installation before ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the correct product name Nait CI-Uniti 102?
No. The official manufacturer name is Naim CI-Uniti 102. NAIT identifies a different Naim integrated-amplifier range.
Is it an all-in-one music system?
Yes. It combines streaming, source inputs, DSP, control and stereo power amplification. It is designed primarily for discreet custom installation rather than conventional front-panel operation.
Can it power passive loudspeakers directly?
Yes. Its two built-in amplifier channels provide 150W into 8 ohms or 260W into 4 ohms per channel for compatible passive loudspeakers.
Can it connect to a television?
Yes, through HDMI eARC. The published specification supports stereo LPCM, so the television should be configured for two-channel PCM rather than an unsupported multichannel bitstream.
Does it decode Dolby or DTS surround sound?
No Dolby or DTS decoder is listed. The HDMI input is specified for stereo LPCM and the CI-Uniti 102 should be treated as a two-channel product.
Can I connect a turntable?
The RCA input is line-level. A conventional turntable requires a suitable external phono stage unless the turntable already has one built in.
Is it Roon Ready?
Naim does not list the CI-Uniti 102 as Roon Ready in its published specifications. Confirm any alternative Roon playback route before purchase.
What does Dante support provide?
The unit can receive a 48kHz Dante audio feed configured through Focal and Naim Manager. It should not be assumed to transmit Dante audio or replace a complete Dante matrix.
What are the two stereo RCA outputs for?
They provide main and Sub or Aux line-level outputs for compatible external amplifiers, active subwoofers, active crossovers or auxiliary zones, depending on the DSP configuration.
Does it provide 32 powered rooms?
No. Naim Multiroom can synchronise up to 32 compatible devices in one session. Each additional room still requires suitable playback, amplification and loudspeakers.
Can it be installed outdoors?
No. It can power suitable outdoor loudspeakers, but the CI-Uniti 102 itself is designed for indoor installation only.
Can it be used without a rack?
The product is designed for discreet rack installation, but any alternative placement must provide stable support, ventilation, antenna clearance, cable access and protection from moisture.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Correction and confirmation of the exact Naim CI model
- Installed-loudspeaker and amplifier matching
- Focal speaker-profile and DSP configuration
- Subwoofer, active-crossover and auxiliary-zone planning
- Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Dante and multiroom guidance
- HDMI eARC and television setup checks
- CI-NAP 108 and CI-NAP 101 expansion advice
- Rack, antenna, ventilation and mains planning
Contact your local Audio T store
with the room plan, loudspeaker models, source requirements, network details and rack location so the CI-Uniti 102 system can be configured correctly.
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