Audio T Verdict
The Naim Fraim Standard-Height Level is the most compact expansion module for a full Fraim equipment rack. It adds one decoupled 10mm toughened-glass support surface while its standard uprights provide 105mm of nominal equipment space beneath the new platform.
This listing supplies one level only, not the multi-level rack shown in some photographs. A Fraim Base or correctly assembled existing Fraim stack is required. The level includes its veneered platform, three standard uprights, glass sub-shelf and the relevant isolation and assembly hardware.
The compact spacing keeps overall rack height under control, but 105mm must accommodate the component below as well as its ventilation needs and connectors. Audio T currently offers eight platform and upright finish combinations.
Naim Fraim Standard-Height Level
Fraim is Naim's reference modular equipment-support system. Each added level connects to the structure beneath through three cup-and-cone interfaces, while a separate glass sub-shelf rests on three hardened-steel balls for a further minimal-contact support stage.
The standard version provides 105mm of available vertical space and increases the assembled rack height by 175mm including its glass shelf. It is suited to components whose chassis, ventilation allowance and rear connections all fit safely within that space.
Designed For
- Extending an existing full Naim Fraim rack
- Providing 105mm of nominal equipment clearance
- Lower-profile components with suitable ventilation needs
- Keeping a multi-level rack relatively compact
- Naim and compatible third-party hi-fi components
- Matching four platform and two upright finishes
Important Limitations
- It cannot stand independently on the floor
- A Fraim Base or compatible existing stack is required
- Only one standard-height level is supplied
- The 105mm figure is nominal available height
- Maximum shelf load is 50kg, evenly distributed
- Maximum load for one complete rack assembly is 90kg
- Assembly and correct alignment are required
One Standard Level, Not a Complete Rack
Product photography often shows several levels assembled above a base to demonstrate the finished system. This product supplies one standard-height Fraim level. It does not include the Fraim Base, further levels, floor spikes, floor protectors, hi-fi equipment or the optional glass safety kit.
Each independent rack stack starts with one double-layer Fraim Base. Standard, medium and tall levels can then be selected according to the components, ventilation requirements and cable layout.
The Uprights Set the Space Below
The three standard uprights connect the new platform to the support structure beneath. They therefore create 105mm of nominal space for the component immediately below the new platform. The new glass surface supports the next component above.
If another level is later installed above the new glass, that next level's upright height determines the overhead clearance for the component on this shelf.
105mm Available Height
Naim publishes 105mm as the available height for a standard Fraim level. The overall level height is 175mm including glass. These are different measurements: the available height describes usable equipment space, while the overall figure describes how much the level adds to the rack.
Measure the component at its highest point and retain enough free space for cooling. Rear sockets, plug bodies, aerials, top-mounted controls and cable bends may require more room than the front-panel dimensions indicate. The equipment manufacturer's instructions determine the required ventilation clearance.
If 105mm is insufficient, the medium level provides 180mm of nominal clearance and the tall level provides 254mm. Choosing a taller level increases the total rack height, so the whole stack should be planned rather than treating each shelf in isolation.
Decoupled Toughened-Glass Support
The component rests on a 452 x 340mm toughened-glass sub-shelf rather than directly on the veneered platform. Three chrome-plated hardened-steel balls support the glass at minimal contact points, with sockets and a locating pin keeping it correctly positioned.
The supplied glass is 10mm thick and complies with BS6206 Class A. It must be handled carefully and used only for its intended purpose. A chipped, cracked or broken glass component must be replaced with the correct Naim-specified part.
Cup-and-Cone Inter-Level Interface
Three extruded anodised aluminium uprights connect the level to the structure below. Purpose-made cups, cones, clamping rings, studs and nuts create rigid three-point interfaces between successive Fraim modules.
The system is intended to limit the paths through which mechanical energy reaches the equipment while maintaining a stable reference plane. The shaped 19mm double-veneered composite platform and asymmetrical three-point arrangement form an engineered support rather than a conventional furniture shelf.
Eight Current Finish Combinations
Audio T currently lists four platform finishes, each available with natural aluminium or black anodised uprights:
- Black platform with natural aluminium uprights
- Black platform with black anodised uprights
- Cherry platform with natural aluminium uprights
- Cherry platform with black anodised uprights
- Cherry Tint platform with natural aluminium uprights
- Cherry Tint platform with black anodised uprights
- Natural Ash platform with natural aluminium uprights
- Natural Ash platform with black anodised uprights
Cherry Tint has a darker treatment than the untinted Cherry option. The platforms use real wood veneer, so natural differences in grain and tone should be expected, particularly when adding a new level to an older rack.
Match the Platform and Uprights
Select both parts of the finish. For example, a Black platform with natural aluminium uprights is a different version from a Black platform with black uprights. If the existing specification is uncertain, provide Audio T with clear photographs before ordering.
Load Limits and Maximum Rack Size
Naim states a maximum safe load of 50kg on each Fraim shelf, evenly distributed, and a maximum load of 90kg for one complete Fraim or FraimLite assembly. Both limits apply. Adding another level does not increase the permitted total load of the rack.
The standard level itself weighs 7kg. Include the base, every added level and all equipment when checking that the floor and its underlying structure can safely support the completed installation.
Naim permits up to six levels above one base when standard or medium uprights are used. Configurations using tall uprights are limited to two levels above the base. Mixed-height layouts should be confirmed with Audio T, especially where a large number of heavy products is involved.
Component Choice and Ventilation
Standard spacing works best for lower-profile electronics that remain within the available height after a safe ventilation allowance has been retained. Never assume that a component is suitable simply because its case measures less than 105mm.
Products with top ventilation, valves, disc lids, large aerials or vertically connected cables may need a medium or tall level. Place heavy components lower in the stack where practical and follow the installation instructions supplied with every item of electronics.
Cable Clearance and System Layout
Check cable lengths and plug dimensions before fixing the order of components. DIN plugs, Burndy collars, mains connectors and network leads require room behind the chassis, and none should be stretched or sharply bent to fit the rack.
The standard level keeps the tower compact but can make rear access tighter than a medium level. Leave safe access to mains switches and ensure that signal and power cables can hang naturally without pressing against the structure or glass.
Assembly and Installation
Remove the equipment before adding, removing or rearranging a level. Follow Naim's assembly sequence so that every cup, cone, ball, socket, stud and clamping component is installed in the correct orientation. Protect the veneer and glass throughout the work.
Confirm that the completed rack is level and stable before reloading it. Do not drag a loaded rack, stand or sit on any part of it, or exceed the stated limits. Audio T can arrange specification and assembly support for more complex installations.
Fraim and FraimLite Compatibility
This is a full Fraim level with a ball-supported glass sub-shelf. FraimLite uses a simpler support structure and normally carries equipment directly on its veneered shelf. The two product types share a modular footprint but are not identical.
Naim describes a level-by-level upgrade path and allows Fraim and FraimLite levels to be combined. Ask Audio T to check the required parts, finished appearance and correct assembly before adding this standard Fraim level to a FraimLite-based rack.
Care and Maintenance
Dust the platform and anodised uprights with a clean, soft cloth. Clean the glass with a damp cloth or chamois and a little washing-up liquid or soft soap where necessary. Do not use abrasive powders or cleaners.
Do not strike the glass with hard or pointed objects or expose it directly to very hot or cold items. Recheck rack level and stability after relocation or significant equipment changes.
Key Features
- One standard-height expansion level for full Naim Fraim
- Provides 105mm of nominal equipment clearance beneath the new platform
- Adds 175mm to the rack height including glass
- 10mm toughened-glass equipment support
- Glass supported on three hardened-steel ball decouplers
- Inter-level cup-and-cone isolation interface
- Four platform finishes and two upright colours
- 452 x 340mm glass support surface
- 50kg maximum evenly distributed shelf load
- Requires a Fraim Base or compatible existing stack
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this level be used without a Fraim Base?
No. It is an expansion module and does not include a floor interface. Install it above a Fraim Base or a compatible existing Fraim level.
Does the listing include the full rack shown in photographs?
No. It includes one standard-height level only. The Fraim Base and every additional level are separate products.
What does 105mm available height mean?
It is the nominal vertical space created beneath the new standard platform. The component in that position must fit while retaining adequate ventilation and connector clearance.
Does the standard level include its glass shelf?
Yes. A full Fraim level includes its 10mm toughened-glass sub-shelf and ball-supported isolation hardware. Check that all parts are present before assembly.
Should I choose standard or medium height?
Choose standard only when the component, ventilation allowance and connections fit within 105mm. The medium version provides 180mm and is more suitable when additional cooling or rear access is required.
How does the tall level compare?
The tall version provides 254mm of nominal equipment space and adds 324mm to the rack height. It is intended for installations that cannot be accommodated by standard or medium spacing.
Which finish should I order?
Match both the platform veneer and upright colour of the existing rack. Audio T lists four platform finishes with either natural aluminium or black uprights. Natural veneer varies in grain and tone.
How many standard levels can one rack use?
Naim permits up to six standard or medium levels above a single base, subject to the 50kg individual shelf limit and 90kg maximum load for the complete assembly.
Can Audio T help extend an assembled rack?
Yes. Audio T can check the level height, finish, equipment order, load distribution and cable arrangement, then advise on safe disassembly, reassembly and levelling.
Why Buy From Audio T?
Selecting a Fraim level requires accurate measurements and an understanding of ventilation, connector clearance and the way each upright height affects the component beneath it. Audio T can verify these points and match the platform and upright finishes to an existing rack.
Your local store can also help plan the complete stack, check cable dressing and loaded weight, and arrange careful assembly and levelling where required.
More Details - Register your Naim Product Today