naim 300 Series Music Streamer User Guide

naim 300 Series Music Streamer

Product Information

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Naim Audio
• Model: NSS 333
• Country of Origin: United Kingdom
• Power Supply: AC ONLY
• Fuse Rating: ANTISURGE
• Input Power: Variable based on voltage
• Frequency: 50/60Hz

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Can I use the NSS 333 without a preamplifier and power amplifier?
  • A: No, the NSS 333 needs to be connected to a preamplifier and power amplifier for proper functionality.
• Q: Is it necessary to download the Naim App for using the NSS 333?
  • A: Yes, you need the Naim App to control and optimize the performance of your NSS 333.

Introduction

Welcome to your new Naim streamer. Like all Naim Audio products, the NSS 333 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 set-up essentials, before moving onto more detailed information in Section 5.

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

What’s in the box

Getting to know your NSS 333

NSS 333 set-up essentials

• Your NSS 333 needs to be connected to a preamplifier and power amplifier (such as the matching NAC 332 and NAP 350s), 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 streamer sited above the preamplifier, as shown.
• You will also need speakers with cables, an internet connection (Wi-Fi or hard wired), and a smartphone or tablet to run the Naim App.
• Download the free Naim App from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

Connecting your NSS 333 to the NAC 332 preamplifier

• Connect DIN cable (supplied with the NSS 333) from the DIN output of the NSS 333 to the DIN input of the NAC 332.
• Note the end of the cable with a band should be connected to the NSS 333.

Powering up

• Once you have connected your NSS 333 to a preamplifier, there are just a few more, simple steps to take before you can power up your NSS 333 and start streaming.
• Connect the two supplied link plugs to the NSS 333 power supply upgrade sockets.
• If using a wired network connect a cable between the RJ45 socket and the router or switch.
• Connect the power cable to the NSS 333’s power socket and then to mains power.
• Switch on your NSS 333 by pressing the standby button on the top right side of the front panel.

Pairing the remote control

• Once your NSS 333 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 buttons (except standby) will enable remote pairing mode for 30 seconds.
• Press and hold the home button on the remote control handset for 3 seconds.
• The volume ring on the remote will chase when in pairing mode and turn off when paired.
• The remote is now paired to the unit and ready to use.

Playing music, radio, podcasts and more

Access all of your music including your favourite streaming services and internet radio stations, play your stored music from a Naim music server (such as a Naim Uniti Core) and be the source for your multiroom system. NSS 333 also includes digital connections so you can connect your external sources. Before you start streaming the services below, ensure your control device (smartphone, tablet, or computer) is connected to the same network as your NSS 333.

Internet radio

• A world of radio stations is available to enjoy via the Naim App, including a curated collection of higher-quality streams.
• You can also select and store station presets for faster access to your favourites.

UPnP

Your NSS 333 can play audio files stored on Naim music servers (such as the Naim Uniti Core), NAS drives or other connected UPnP devices.
It supports a wide array of file formats, in resolutions up to 384kHz/32-bit.
Browse and enjoy your music and build playlists via the Naim App.

Spotify Connect/Spotify Hi-Fi

• Open up the Spotify App on your phone, tablet or laptop
• Start playing the content you want to listen to and select ‘Devices Available’
• Select your NSS 333 and start listening

AirPlay 2

AirPlay 2 is an Apple technology designed to control home audio systems and speakers in any room from your iPhone, iPad, Mac, HomePod or Apple TV.
It allows you to stream from a wide range of sources, including Apple Music.
To setup AirPlay 2 use the home app on an iOS device running software 11.4 or later.

• Open the Home app and tap the (+) button to add your NSS 333 as an accessory

Chromecast

Chromecast allows you to stream your favourite music and more from your phone, tablet or laptop.

• To use Chromecast built-in to cast audio to your NSS 333, simply configure it via the Google Home App, then stream away from a range of available sources.

TIDAL and TIDAL Connect

Subscribers to the TIDAL music-streaming service can enjoy it in two ways on the NSS 333.

• Stream directly from the TIDAL App, via TIDAL Connect
• Simply open the ‘Now Playing’ screen while playing a song
• Look for the speaker icon and choose the NSS 333 from that list

Alternatively, you can enjoy TIDAL via the Naim App

• Select the TIDAL input
• Enter your TIDAL login details
• Browse and enjoy TIDAL via the Naim App

Qobuz

A world of music, including a huge selection of true high-resolution albums, is available to stream via Qobuz. Subscribers can enjoy the service via the Naim App.

• Select the Qobuz input
• Enter your Qobuz login details
• Browse and enjoy Qobuz via the Naim App

Roon

• Your NSS 333 is Roon Ready, allowing you to explore everything the music management service has to offer.

Multiroom

Your NSS 333 can pair with other music players, speakers and systems to fill your home with perfectly synchronised sound. There are four different ways you can enjoy the multiroom music experience

Via the Naim App

Pair with other connected Naim products, including Mu-so wireless speakers, Uniti players and more, via the Naim App, for the best quality experience. Simply start playing the music you want to share, and group any or all of your Naim products by selecting the multiroom symbol.

You can also join in the fun by pressing the multiroom button on your remote control.

• Via Apple AirPlay 2
• Via Chromecast
• Via Roon

Tips on installing and using your NSS 333

We know you are eager to enjoy your new NSS 333, but we promise it will sound even better once you have followed these guidelines, all designed to help you experience your music streamer without compromise.

Unboxing and positioning

Your NSS 333 uses high-quality components, including a substantial power transformer and durable aluminium casing. That means the NSS 333 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 minimise vibrations that can affect sound. No room for a rack? Consider placing your NSS 333 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-byside, please leave some distance between the units. Equally, connected products should not sit too far apart: the maximum separation distance is that allowed by the supplied interconnect lead. 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 NSS 333 features many external connection options. For the best sound quality, we recommend you use the BNC digital input.

Type 3: plug 12 ways

Type 4: plug 23 ways

Output connection details

• For optimal sound quality we recommend you use the DIN output.
• If the XLR or RCA outputs are going to be used they need to be enabled in the Naim App.
• If an output is not being used it should be disabled in the Naim App.
• If the digital output is being used it needs to be enabled in the Naim App. If the digital output is being used the analogue outputs will be disabled.

System automation

When using the NSS 333 with a compatible preamplifier and power amplifier – such as the NAC 332 and NAP 350 – you can synchronise power on/off and logo brightness across your system by connecting the NAC 332 with the optical system automation cables supplied with the NAP 350s. The NSS 333 and NAC 332 use the Zigbee system to synchronise their functions. Press any button (except standby) on the front panel of the NSS 333 and NAC 332 to pair them together, or alternatively, complete the setup wizard using the Naim App.

Powering up/down

Once all your input and output connections are made, connect the supplied mains lead to your NSS 333 and to mains power.

You can now power up the NSS 333 by pressing the standby button. If the NAC 332 and NAP 350’s are connected via System Automation they will switch on in sequence. It is the same procedure to switch off your NSS 333: turn off your NSS 333 streamer – and NAC 332 and NAP 350’s connected via System Automation – by simply pressing the standby button on the front panel, which will put the NSS 333, NAC 332 and the NAP 350s into standby. Avoid using a mains outlet switch to turn your amplifier off.

Standby power settings

The NSS 333 has four power levels: standby, network standby, network standby with an additional power requirement and powered for normal use.

• “Standby” mode has an overall power consumption of less than 0.5W. The NSS 333 can be woken up by pressing the standby button or from the remote control.
• “Network standby” is <2W. The network needs to be connected (either wired or Wi-Fi) so the NSS 333 can be woken up via the Naim App.
• “Network standby with an additional power requirement”. The NSS 333 is fully powered but with the display and logo turned off (it needs to be in this state to power a USB device or act as a server).
• “Powered for normal use” In normal use the NSS 333 uses about 25W.

By default, the NSS 333 is set to ‘auto standby’ – it automatically enters the appropriate standby mode after a period not exceeding 20 minutes of inactivity. For the optimum sound quality set the auto standby period to “Never” in the Naim App so the NSS 333 is permanently powered up.

Naim logo brightness settings

You can choose the brightness level of the LED indicators and Naim logo on your NSS 333 in the Naim App. If you are using Naim NAC 332 and NAP 350 amplifiers connected via System Automation, you can synchronise the brightness of both logos from the NSS 333.

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 NSS 333, first turn the whole system off. Remove the mains cable from the NSS 333 – it is not required when the unit is powered by the NPX 300.
• Add the NPX300 to the equipment stand and remove the two link plugs from the NSS 333 rear panel.
• Connect the un-banded end of the two Burndy cables to the NPX 300. Connect the two banded ends to the NSS 333. 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 NSS 333 back on by pressing the standby button.

Mains power, earthing and more

Use only the mains leads and plugs supplied with your NSS 333, 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 NSS 333 streamer has a ground lift switch. Set this to “Default” if no other source connects mains earth to signal ground. This setting will give best sound quality.

Non-rewirable mains plugs

If a non-rewirable 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 NSS 333. 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 optimise the performance of your new NSS 333.

Running in

Naim products are hand-crafted from a carefully selected range of high-quality components. Your NSS 333 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 NSS 333

To reset your NSS 333 to the factory default settings, use the remote control to navigate to “Home – Settings – Factory settings – Reset all settings – Yes” on the front panel display.

Support

In the event of any non-compliant equipment, it must be sent to the dealer, in its original packaging, who will analyse it and determine where the breakdown comes from. If the equipment is under warranty and conditions are met, the equipment will be repaired
or replaced according to the conditions applicable to the legal warranty on the date of purchase of the device. Otherwise, a repair estimate will be submitted. The legal guarantee does not cover damage from a misuse or a wrong connection (burnt mobile coils for instance). Naim equipment is covered by a warranty whose conditions are locally set or carried out by the official Naim dealer of each country, in compliance with the laws of the concerned territory. In France, every Naim equipment is covered by a two-year legal guarantee from the date of purchase.

A defect can be caused by a failure of the system or by the installation, contact your dealer.
Online support resources are also available on our website, please visit www.naimaudio.com. If you are still unable to resolve your issue, or have any questions, please contact support@naimaudio.com

Service and updates

Any repairs or hardware updates should only be made by an authorised Naim service centre 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 Music Streamer – NSS 333

Audio inputs

| USB:

2 x USB Type A socket (front and rear – 1.6 A charge)

Digital (S/PDIF):

1 x coaxial BNC (up to 24bit 192kHz, DoP 64Fs) 1 x coaxial RCA (up to 24bit/192kHz, DoP 64Fs) 2 x Optical TOSLINK (up to 24bit/96kHz)

Audio outputs

| Analogue:

1 x 5-pin DIN 1 x XLR pair 1 x RCA pair

Digital:

1 x BNC coaxial

Audio formats

| WAV – up to 32bit/384kHz

FLAC and AIFF – up to 24bit/384Hz

ALAC (Apple Lossless) – up to 24bit/384Hz MP3 – up to 48kHz, 320kbit (16 bit)

AAC – up to 48kHz, 320kbit (16 bit) OGG and WMA – up to 48kHz (16 bit) DSD – 64 and 128Fs

M4A – up to 48kHz, 320kbit (16 bit)

Note: Gapless playback supported on all formats.

Network| Ethernet (10/100Mbps), Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n/ac)

Power consumption

| Typical use: 25W

Network standby mode: <2W Standby: <0.5W

Ripping and storage

| 2 x USB Type A socket (front and rear – 1.6A charge)

Store up to 20,000 tracks to a local USB-connected storage device and serve to a network-connected player

External portable HDD – max. 1TB USB sticks – max. 128 GB

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

This marking indicates that within the EU this product should not be disposed of with other household wastes. To prevent any risk to the environment or human health, please recycle them responsibly to encourage the reuse of material resources. To return your used device, please use the return and collection systems available, or contact the retailer where you purchased the product. They can recycle this product safely.

CONTACT

Scan QR code for information on packaging disposal

Naim Audio Ltd.

• Southampton Road, Salisbury, UK SP1 2LN
• Call. +44 (0) 1722 426600
• Email. info@naimaudio.com
• naimaudio.com

Designed in the UK by Naim Audio

References

• British High-End Audio | Naim Audio
• British High-End Audio | Naim Audio

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