naim NAC 332 Preamplifier User Guide

: June 10, 2024
: naim

Table of Contents

Introduction
What’s in the box
Getting to know your NAC 332
NAC 332 setup essentials
NAC 332 detailed setup
Tips on installing and using your NAC 332
Mains power, earthing and more
Further tips and advice
Support
Service and updates
Specifications
Product recycling
Customer Support
Documents / Resources

naim NAC 332 Preamplifier User Guide

Introduction

Please Note: Full safety warnings can be found in the Statutory Safety Manual.

Welcome to your new Naim preamplifier. Like all Naim Audio products, the NAC 332 puts musical performance first. To help realise its full potential, it is important to follow the simple installation and usage guidelines covered in this manual. We start with some product and setup essentials, before moving onto more detailed information in Section 5.

What’s in the box

1x NAC 332
**1x Document pack

**

1x Cleaning cloth
**1x Power-Line Lite

**

**1x Remote control

**

**2x Link plugs

**

Getting to know your NAC 332

NAC 332 setup essentials

Your NAC 332 needs to be connected to one or more sources and to a power amplifier (such as the matching NSS 333 streamer and a pair of NAP 350 Power Amplifiers), but before you do, please ensure all components are in their final positions and disconnected from mains power

For optimum performance, use a dedicated hi-fi support – ideally Naim Fraim – with the preamplifier sited above the power amplifiers, as shown.
You will also need speakers with cables.

Connecting your NAC 332 to the NAP 350 power amplifiers

Connect two XLR cables (supplied with the NAP 350) from the XLR outputs of the NAC 332 to the XLR inputs of each NAP 350. Ensure the cables are channel- matched: the pre-amplifier left output is connected to the power amplifier driving the left speaker and the same for the right. Please ensure that the XLR plugs are inserted correctly, which is achieved with the Naim logo on the plug facing upwards.

Connect the system automation cables (supplied with the NAP 350) between the NAC 332 Remote Out terminals and the Remote In terminals on the NAP 350.

Connect your source components

Connect your source components to the NAC 332 inputs as required. The front panel buttons may be assigned to select any input, see section 4.2
The factory default assignments are:

Tuner

| Input 3| RCA
---|---|---
Stream| Input 7|

5 pin DIN

AV

| Input 4| RCA
Phono| Input 6|

8 pin DIN

AUX

| Input 1| XLR
CD| Input 8|

5 pin DIN

Powering up

Once you have connected your sources and the NAC 332 to the power amplifiers, there are just a few more simple steps to take before you can power up your NAC 332 and start playing music.
Connect the two supplied link plugs to the NAC 332 power supply upgrade sockets.

Connect the power cable to the NAC 332’s power socket and then to mains power.

Switch on your NAC 332 by pressing the standby button on the top right side of the front panel.

Pairing the remote control

Once your NAC 332 is switched on, you will need to pair the remote control.
Insert the provided batteries into the remote control handset.
Pressing any of the front panel input buttons (except standby) will enable remote pairing mode for 30 seconds.
NAC 332 setup essentials

Press and hold the brightness button on the remote control handset for 3 seconds.

The volume ring on the remote will chase when in pairing mode and then stop at the current volume setting when paired.
The remote is now paired to the unit and ready to use.

NAC 332 detailed setup

Using Naim power amplifiers without balanced inputs

If an older Naim power amplifier is being used a set of appropriately wired cables will be required.
If the RCA unbalanced outputs are to be used (for example to connect a sub woofer) the rear panel “RCA output” switch should be set to the “On” position.

Input re-assignment

Any combination of six of the eight physical inputs can be directly selected from the front panel or remote control buttons. A setup mode is used to change the assignment of the physical inputs to the buttons.
To enter setup mode press the front panel button of the first input to be adjusted until the button starts to flash.
The volume knob leds show segments indicating the possible input assignment, with the currently selected input shown by brighter LEDs.
While in setup mode the selected source shown by the volume knob LEDs will be heard playing.
Turning the volume knob changes the input assigned to the flashing input.
While in setup mode press any other source button to adjust the assignment for that input.
To exit setup mode press the flashing input button until it stops flashing.
The mute button continues to work as normal while in setup mode.

Input trim adjustment

The relative level of each input can be adjusted over a range of -10dB to +10dB to equalize the volume level between sources.
This is adjusted while in setup mode, so first press the input button to be adjusted until the button flashes.
A second press of the button will change to trim setting mode. The LEDs on the volume control will indicate the current trim setting.
Turning the volume knob will change the trim setting; the source being adjusted will be playing so you can decide on the level required.
When satisfied with the setting, a press of the button will return to the input mapping display, or a long press will exit setup mode.

AV fixed gain (unity gain)

This mode is only applicable to the AV input. The input trim, headroom and balance settings will be ignored while AV fixed gain mode is active.
Volume control changes cannot be made using the remote or the volume dial of the NAC 332 when in this mode. The output signal will be at the same volume as the input signal.
Fixed gain is set while in setup mode, so first press and hold the front panel AV input button until the button flashes.
A second press of the button will change to trim setting mode. The LEDs on the volume control will indicate the current trim setting.
Then, using the volume control turn the dial to maximum (far right) until a solid LED block is present.
To exit setup mode press the AV input button until it stops flashing.

Maximum volume function

This mode allows the user to set the overall maximum volume level to prevent accidental selection of high-volume levels.
This is adjusted while in maximum volume setup mode, so first press and hold the front panel mute button. The mute button will flash and the volume dial LED will change when activated.
Then, turn the volume control dial either left or right to edit the Maximum Volume value.
To set the maximum volume for headphones, insert the headphone jack, the volume dial will change to show the headphone maximum allowed volume, then use the volume control to select the desired maximum volume.
Removing the headphone jack will revert the volume dial to showing the main maximum volume.
When satisfied with the setting, exit setup mode by pressing the mute button until it stops flashing.

Type 1: 8 pin DIN

NAC 332 detailed setup

Extra DIN input functions

Input 6 (8 pin DIN) is compatible with 5 pin DIN leads and can also directly power a Naim NVC TT phono stage.
Input 8 (5 pin DIN) has line level outputs mirroring the currently selected source. Note that when this input is selected the source connected will be mirrored, so beware of feedback loops if using a recording source.

Using headphones

The headphone output is capable of driving most headphones to very high volume levels.
While the headphone’s plug is inserted the preamp’s main outputs will be muted.
The headphone output has a separate volume setting. When headphones are inserted the volume will be set to the level last used with headphones. When they are removed the volume will be set back to the level last used with speakers.

Tips on installing and using your NAC 332

We know you are eager to enjoy your new NAC 332, but we promise it will sound even better once you have followed these guidelines, all designed to help you experience your preamplifier without compromise.

Unboxing and positioning

Your NAC 332 uses high-quality components, including a substantial power transformer and durable aluminium casing. That means the NAC 332 weighs in at 11kg, so please take care when lifting or moving it, and ensure the surface you plan to place it on is stable and can support its weight.
For optimum performance, use your Naim products on a dedicated hi-fi equipment rack – ideally the Naim Fraim or Fraim Lite – to minimize vibrations that can affect sound. No room for a rack? Consider placing your NAC 332 on a Fraim glass shelf on a suitable piece of furniture, to provide solid but discreet support.
Never stack Naim products on top of each other, and if you are placing them side-by- side, please leave some distance between the units.
To reduce the risk of audible hum from the loudspeakers do not place power supplies or power amplifiers close to source or preamplifier components.

Input connection details

The NAC 332 features several source connection options. For the best sound quality, we recommend you use the DIN inputs.

System automation

When using the NAC 332 with a compatible streamer and power amplifier – such as the NSS 333 and NAP 350 – you can synchronize power on/off and logo brightness across your system by connecting the NAC 332 with the optical system automation cables supplied with the NAP 350.
The NSS 333 and NAC 332 use the Zigbee system to synchronize their functions. Press any button (except standby) on the front panel of the NSS 333 and NAC 332 to pair them together.
Use the ‘Remote Out’ terminals on the NAC 332 to link the ‘Remote in’ terminals on the
NAP 350. It is possible to link further power amplifiers using the ‘Remote out’ terminals of the NAP 350.
If you require a longer distance between your NAC 332 and the NAP 350 than the supplied cable allows for, you can use a replacement 3.5mm to 3.5mm optical cable to the required length. It is also possible to use standard analogue cables with 3.5mm connectors, but an optical cable offers the best performance.

Powering up/down

Once all your input and output connections are made, connect the supplied mains lead to your NAC 332 and to mains power.
You can now power up the NAC 332 by pressing the standby button.
If the NSS 333, NAC 332 and a pair of NAP 350 units is connected via System Automation they will switch on in sequence.
It is the same procedure to switch off your NAC 332: turn off your NSS 333, NAC 332 and NAP 350 connected via System Automation, by simply pressing the standby button on the front panel of the NSS 333 or NAC 332, which will put your complete system into standby. Avoid using a mains outlet switch to turn your amplifiers off.

Standby power settings

The NAC 332 has three power levels: standby, standby with instant on and powered for normal use.
‘Standby’ mode has an overall power consumption of less than 0.5W. The NAC 332 can be woken up by pressing the standby button or from the remote control. ‘Standby with instant on’ leaves the NAC 332 fully powered, but with the logo turned off. ‘Powered for normal use’ In this mode the NAC 332 uses about 20W.
By default, the NAC 332 rear panel switch is set to ‘auto standby’ – it automatically enters standby mode after a period not exceeding 20 minutes of inactivity. For the optimum sound quality set the switch to the “instant on” position. This will keep the NAC 332 permanently powered up. With the switch in this position, if the standby button is pressed, the NAC 332 will remain powered up, but the logo will turn off.

Naim logo brightness settings

You can choose the brightness level of the LED indicators and Naim logo on your NAC 332 using the brightness buttons on the rear panel and the remote control. If you are using
Naim NAC 332 and NAP 350 amplifiers connected via System Automation the brightness of all logos will be synchronised.

Using the NPX 300 power supply

The NPX 300 power supply is an optional system upgrade. If adding the NPX 300 power supply to the NAC 332, first turn the whole system off. Remove the mains cable from the NAC 332 – it is not required when the unit is powered by the NPX 300.
Add the NPX 300 to the equipment stand and remove the two link plugs from the NAC 332 rear panel.
Connect the un-banded end of the two Burndy cables to the NPX 300. Connect the two banded ends to the NAC 332. Ensure all the locking rings are tightened fully. Try to “dress” the cables so they hang as loosely as possible and without touching the stands or the wall – this will be easier if they are formed to roughly the required shape before connecting either end.
Connect the power lead to the NPX 300’s power socket and then to mains power. Turn the rest of the system back on.
Turn the NAC 332 back on by pressing the standby button.

Mains power, earthing and more

Use only the mains leads and plugs supplied with your NAC 332, or the upgrade Naim
Power-Line mains cable. Where fused plugs are used, 13-Amp fuses should be fitted. Do not wire voltage dependent resistors or noise suppressors into mains plugs; they degrade the mains supply and the sound.

Earthing

In order to avoid hum loops, the signal ground of the whole system should be connected to the mains earth in one place. Typically, this is at the primary source. The NAC 332 preamplifier has a ground lift switch. Set this to “Default” if the primary source connects mains earth to signal ground. If no source connects mains earth to signal ground set it to the “Ground” position.

Non-rewireable mains plugs

If a non-rewireable plug is cut from a mains lead (for whatever purpose) the plug MUST be disposed of in a way to render it totally useless. Considerable shock hazard exists if the cut-off plug is inserted into a mains outlet.

Mains circuits and interference

A hi-fi system usually shares a mains power circuit with other household equipment, some of which can cause distortion that may manifest as mechanical hum from mains transformers, including the large transformer in your NAC 332.
Transformer hum is not transmitted through the speakers and has no effect on the performance of the system; however, careful positioning of your Naim system may reduce it, as may a separate, dedicated mains circuit. Such a circuit (ideally with a 30 or 45-Amp rating) will also generally improve system performance. Only seek advice on the installation of a separate mains circuit from a qualified electrician.

Lightning precautions

Your Naim system should be turned off and fully disconnected from mains power when there is a risk of a lightning strike, to protect from potential damage.

Further tips and advice

Now you have all the essentials sorted, let us move onto a few more things that you can do to optimize the performance of your new NAC 332.

Running in

Naim products are hand-crafted from a carefully selected range of high-quality components. Your NAC 332 will sound superb out of the box, but its performance may improve further still as all these various components power up and interact in their first few weeks of use. Keeping your system powered up will assist this process.

Cleaning your product and connections

Naim recommends using only the supplied cleaning cloth to lightly dust any product surfaces. Cleaning products may contain ingredients that can adversely affect cosmetic surface treatments and coatings.

Keep interconnect plugs and sockets clean and free from corrosion. The easiest way to achieve this is to fully power off your Naim product (and any connected equipment), unplug all connections from their sockets and firmly push them in again. Contact cleaners and so-called ‘enhancers’ should not be used, as they can leave deposits that can degrade the sound of your system.

Resetting your NAC 332

To reset your NAC 332 to the factory default settings press and hold the “Brightness/ Reset” button on the rear panel for at least 3 seconds. The NAC 332 with return to a standby state and all settings will be returned to the factory defaults. Note that this will include unpairing the remote control and Zigbee System Automation device.

Support

Consumer protection varies from country to country. In most territories, the retailer you bought your Naim product from should be your primary contact if you are experiencing problems with your unit. A problem may be due to a fault in the system or its installation, so it is essential to make full use of your dealer’s diagnostic skills.
You can find a range of support articles for each Naim product online at Naimaudio.com
If you are still experiencing an issue with your Naim product, contact us directly for help and advice, at support@naimaudio.com

Service and updates

Any repairs or hardware updates should only be made by an authorized Naim service center or at the Naim HQ itself. Many components are custom made, tested or matched and appropriate replacements are often unobtainable from other sources. Please contact your local Naim retailer with any service or repair queries.

Specifications

300 Series Preamplifier – NAC 332

Audio inputs:

| 3 x DIN
2 x XLR pair 3 x RCA pair

Audio outputs:

| 1 x XLR pair 1 x RCA pair
1 x 6.35mm headphone jack
1 x Line level output on Input 8 (5 pin DIN)
Update:| Micro USB
Remote In:| 1 x 3.5mm jack – electrical and Mini-TOSLINK optical
Remote Out:| 2 x 3.5mm jack – electrical and Mini-TOSLINK optical
Power consumption:| Typical use: 20W Standby: <0.5W
Dimensions (H x W x D):| 91.5 x 432 x 317.5 mm (including feet)
Weight:| 11kg
Mains supply:| 115V or 230V, 50/60Hz

Product recycling

Products that display the crossed-out wheeled bin logo cannot be disposed of as domestic waste. These products must be disposed of at facilities capable of recycling them and appropriately handling any waste by-products.
Contact your local authority for details of the nearest such facility.
Appropriate recycling and waste disposal helps conserve resources and protects the environment from contamination.