Naim1 HDX, HDX BROCHURE

REFERENCE MANUAL
HDX HARD DISK PLAYER
ENGLISH

Contents

Section Page
Contents
1 HDX Hard Disk Player Introduction 1
1.1 HDX User Interfaces 1
1.2 HDX Interface Options 2
2 Getting Started 3
2.1 Internet/Network Connections 3
2.2 Power Supply Upgrade 3
2.3 Audio Connections 3
2.4 Switch On 4
2.5 External Screen Setup 4
2.6 First Use 4
2.7 Software Upgrade 4
2.8 Switching Off 4
2.9 Data Backup 5
5 Playback 17
6 Ripping 18
7 External Storage 19
3 Getting Connected 6
3.1 HDX Rear Panel 6
3.2 HDX Connections 6
3.3 HDX Connected to XPS Power Supply 7
4 The Front Panel Display Interface 8
4.1 The Home Menu 8
4.2 The Browse Music Menu 9
4.3 The Find Music Menu 10
4.4 The Ripping Monitor Screen 10
4.5 The Current Playlist Screen 10
4.6 Playlists 11
4.7 The Quick Play Menu 12
4.8 The System Setup Menu 12
4.9 Handset Functions 16
8 Interface Menu Structure 22
9 Hard Disk Player Terminology 23
10 HDX Specifications 25
11 User Notes 25
12 Commercial Acknowledgements 26
Note: This manual is issue No. 4 and describes the operation of
HDX units running software release version 1.5a SP1. HDX units
running earlier software will not operate fully in the manner
described in this manual. The software running in an HDX is
displayed in the System Status menu.
HDX Hard Disk Player Introduction

1 HDX Hard Disk Player Introduction

The Naim HDX hard disk player will completely change the way you access and listen to your music collection. While the HDX may look like a CD player and can play CDs conventionally, it is intended to operate in a fundamentally different way.
Rather than simply reproducing the audio on a CD inserted in the drawer, the HDX
automatically reads and stores the CD data for replay at any later time.
In addition to storing audio on its local hard disk, the HDX can store and play audio
on network connected hard disk drives. Network stored files can be either audio files ripped from CD or compatible audio files created by other means.
The HDX operates as a UPnP™ server providing audio files to any UPnP™ compatible
playback hardware connected on the same network.
In addition to its conventional analogue or digital audio outputs, the HDX can
provide up to six NaimNet/StreamNet network streams for playback in multiple remote areas.
When the HDX first reads the data from a CD, it automatically accesses an internet
music database and downloads the information held for that CD. The information can include title, tracks, artist, composer, genre and numerous additional details. This can then be used by the HDX to select or search for material and to build custom playlists. The CD cover artwork will also be downloaded if available and displayed by the user interface.
The HDX is able to operate as a conventional CD player. A CD inserted in the drawer
can be played immediately with its audio routed to the analogue and digital audio outputs.
The mode of control and operation of your HDX will depend upon the type of system with which it is integrated. These different “user interfaces” are introduced in Section 1.1 while the touch screen controlled Front Panel Display Interface is described in detail in Section
4.
If the HDX is your first experience of a network connected product you may find it worthwhile to read the glossary in Section 9 before moving on to installation and operation.

1.1 HDX User Interfaces

Unlike a conventional item of hi-fi equipment, the HDX can be operated in a number of different ways using a variety of user interfaces. The user interface you use to control your HDX will depend on the type of system in which it is installed and the ancillary equipment available. The following short paragraphs and table describe each user interface.
1.1.1 The Front Panel Display Interface
The HDX is most conveniently operated via its Front Panel Display Interface using either the front panel touch screen or the remote handset.
Note: The Front Panel Display Interface can also be
configured to control any StreamNet compliant device
connected to the network.
1.1.2 The External Display Interface
The HDX can be operated via its External Display Interface using the supplied remote handset (or a keyboard and/or mouse), in combination with an additional external display screen. The screen may be a monitor or TV with composite video, S-video or VGA input.
The External Display Interface is closely related to the Front Panel Display Interface and similarly provides access to HDX operational and setup features.
1.1.3 The NaimNet/StreamNet Touch Screen Interface
If the HDX is installed in a NaimNet home network, HDX network audio streams can be controlled from the NaimNet/StreamNet Interface. The NaimNet/StreamNet Interface can be accessed from a StreamNet compliant touch screen or a web browser. The interface can also control any StreamNet compliant device.
Note: The NaimNet/StreamNet Interface is not covered in
this manual.
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HDX Hard Disk Player Overview
1.1.4 The Web Browser Interface
If the HDX is installed in a home network the External Display and Front Panel Display interfaces can be duplicated by any Flash enabled web browser
To access the External Display Interface from a web browser, open the web browser and type the unique “name” of your HDX into the browser address field. The name is the last four characters of the MAC address (excluding the colon separators) printed on the rear panel preceded by NSHDX). A typical “name” would be NSHDX89B5.
To access the Front Panel Display interface from a web browser add the suffix:
/index.html?movie=fp.swf to the HDX name. E.g. NSHDX89B5/index.html?movie=fp.swf
Note: Depending on your web browser you may need to
type “http://” immediately before the HDX name.
1.1.5 The Desktop Client
If the HDX is installed in a home network that includes a personal computer running Windows XP, Vista or 7, it can be operated via the Desktop Client Interface. The Desktop
Client application provides the most comprehensive
operational and search functionality. The Desktop Client is covered in a separate manual that can be downloaded from the Naim Audio web site at www.naimaudio.com.
Some setup, file management and maintenance facilities are only available via the Desktop Client.
1.1.6 iPod/iPhone App
The n-Serve app, available from the iTunes App Store, enables wireless touch screen control of HDX from an iPhone or iPod touch.

1.2 HDX Interface Options

Interface Control Display Notes
Front Panel Display Touch screen. Front Panel display. Enables control of both HDX local outputs in
Remote handset. stand-alone installations and network streams in network connected installations.
External Display Remote handset. TV or monitor with VGA, Controls local outputs only. Keyboard/mouse. S-video or composite input. USB/VGA touch screen. USB/VGA touch screen.
Web Browser Flash enabled web browser. Duplicates functionality of Front Panel and External Display Interfaces. Network connection required. Controls local outputs only.
Desktop Client Computer running Windows XP, Provides music database management and Windows Vista or Windows 7. advanced HDX setup functions. Can also control local outputs. Network connection required.
NaimNet/StreamNet StreamNet compliant network touch screen. Controls network streams only. Does not control local outputs. Network connection required.
n-Serve iPod/iPhone App iPhone or iPod touch Controls HDX local output only. Wireless network connection required.
Note: An internet connection is required for detailed CD data lookup. Without an internet connection, limited information is
available from a locally held database.
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Installation - Getting Started

2 G et ti n g S ta rt e d

The HDX should be installed horizontally on a dedicated equipment stand intended for the purpose. Do not stand the HDX directly on top of another item of equipment. Ensure that the fan aperture on the rear panel is not obstructed. The HDX should be installed in its final location before connecting cables or switching on. Remember to install batteries in the remote handset.
The HDX can be connected to a computer network to retrieve album data and artwork from the internet, to stream music around the home using NaimNet hardware, or to take advantage of one of its alternative user interfaces. If the HDX is to be used in a network it is important that the network is working when the HDX is connected and switched on.
Locally connected audio amplifiers should not be switched on before the HDX is switched on. The HDX power switch is located on the rear panel with a shutdown button located on the front panel. The front panel shutdown button extinguishes when the HDX wakes from shutdown.
To begin installation first identify the rear panel network, audio output and mains input sockets, and connect the appropriate cables.

2.1 Internet/Network Connections

While the HDX can be used in “stand-alone” mode without any network connection, if its full capabilities are to be realised it requires connection to an “always on” internet service via an ethernet router/modem with a built-in firewall.
If the HDX is to be used in a NaimNet/StreamNet network audio system, the network connection also enables the HDX to communicate with other network devices and provides access to its alternative user interfaces.
The HDX is set up when originally shipped not to require any further network configuration but to connect to a network automatically (it uses DHCP by default). However, if your HDX has been previously used, its network configuration may have been altered leaving it unable to connect automatically. Contact your retailer, installer or Naim Audio directly if this appears to be the case.
Note: An HDX used in stand-alone mode and switched
on without a working network connection will revert to
an internal IP address only suitable for stand-alone use.
To restore the default DHCP setup, switch the HDX off,
connect the network and switch it on again.
2.1.1 Network Hardware
Wired network connection is strongly recommended for the most consistent and secure HDX operation.
Ethernet-over-mains hardware may be used and provides a simple and convenient method of home network connection. However, depending on mains wiring factors specific to each home environment, the presence of network data on the mains supply may compromise overall system sound quality. If any sound quality compromise is found to be unacceptable, dedicated network cabling should be installed.

2.2 Power Supply Upgrade

The HDX can be upgraded through the use of an external Naim XPS or CD555PS external power supply to power its analogue circuits.
If an external power supply is to be used, the link plug in the rear panel of the HDX should be removed and the power supply connected in its place using an SXPS Burndy cable. See Diagram 3.3.
THE SXPS BURNDY CABLE ONLY MUST BE USED TO CONNECT
THE XPS OR 555PS POWER SUPPLIES.
Both the HDX and the external power supply must be switched off when the link plug is removed and the Burndy connections are made. Switch on the external power supply first followed by the HDX.

2.3 Audio Connections

Connect one or all of the analogue DIN (output 1) or
Phono (output 2) output sockets, or the Digital output
socket, to an appropriate audio system input. If using the analogue outputs use a Naim Hi-Line interconnect cable for best results.
Note: The output selector on the rear panel should be
switched to reflect the analogue output connections used.
2.3.1 Signal Ground
Switch the HDX’s rear panel Signal Ground switch (see paragraph 3.2.14) to the Chassis position unless the HDX is connected in a hi-fi system incorporating another earthed source component, or mains “hum” is audible through the loudspeakers. Contact your retailer, distributor or Naim for advice if necessary.
Note: All Naim CD players are earthed so the Signal
ground switch should be set to floating if one is connected
in the system.
Note: “Connected” in this context means an analogue
audio signal cable that includes an earth connection.
3
Installation - Getting Started

2.4 Switch On

If the HDX’s network facilities are to be used ensure that
it is connected to a working internet connection before
switching it on and that all the necessary peripheral equipment is appropriately connected and configured.
Switch on the HDX using the rear panel power switch.
Note: If the HDX is to be switched on from shutdown mode,
the power switch must be switched off and on again. See
Section 2.8 for more on shutdown mode.
After approximately one minute’s delay, the user interface
Home menu will appear on the front panel touch screen
(and any connected display). Navigate around the interface and select options by touching the screen or using the remote handset navigation (3456), ok, home and back keys.
Note: It is occasionally possible for the default remote handset
command set to conflict with other remote controlled
equipment in the home. A conflict will be apparent if the
handset appears to control an unintended device or if
another handset appears to control the HDX. If a conflict
occurs the HDX handset command set can be changed.
While pointing the handset towards the HDX, press and hold
both the page down and input keys while simultaneously
pressing the 2 or 3 key to change the command set. Press the
1 key to return to the default command set.

2.5 External Screen Setup

If an external display is used, the HDX external display setup may need to be modified. Navigate, via the System menu, to the System Setup menu. Select and save the desired External Display Theme, External Display Aspect
Ratio, External Display Mode and TV System. Initially disable
the Screen Saver (found on System Setup page 1).
Note: The External Display Mode setting configures the
external display for use with either an external touch
screen or a remote handset. In touch screen mode, four
shortcut buttons are displayed on the right of the screen
that correspond to the home, browse, find and back keys
on the remote handset. The on screen shortcut buttons
can only be accessed from the touch screen so are not
shown in remote control mode.
Note: Once you have become used to the interface and
are familiar with its functions the screen saver can be
re-enabled.
press the open button again to close the drawer. The ripping process will begin automatically. When CD ripping is complete the HDX will eject the CD automatically. See Section 6 for further information on ripping CDs.
Only CDs owned personally should be ripped. Ripping a
borrowed CD may violate copyright law.
Note: Although the HDX contains a small internal music
database, to be able to identify a CD and download its
associated data during the ripping process, it must be
connected to a working internet connection.

2.7 Software Upgrade

Software upgrade CDs will occasionally be released for the HDX. New software is installed simply by inserting the upgrade CD in the drawer. The software upgrade process will commence automatically. As part of the upgrade process the HDX will eject the CD and re-boot. The front panel display may also go blank temporarily. The upgrade process is complete once the display returns to the Home Menu.
Note: Any specific instructions included with the upgrade
CD should be followed carefully.
Never switch off the HDX from the rear panel power
switch or unplug it from the mains supply while a software
upgrade process is underway.

2.8 Switching Off

Switching off the HDX from its rear panel power switch is not normally necessary unless it is to be un-installed. It can be put into shutdown mode by pressing the handset
shutdown key or pressing and holding the front panel shutdown button for one second. The HDX may take up
to one minute to enter shutdown mode during which time the shutdown button will flash. The shutdown button will remain lit when the HDX is in shutdown mode. Wait until the shutdown button stops flashing and remains lit before switching off the HDX from the rear panel mains switch.
Never switch off the HDX from the rear panel mains switch
or unplug it from the mains supply unless it is in shutdown
mode.
To switch the HDX back on from shutdown mode, the power switch must be switched off and on again.

2.6 First Use

4
The HDX is shipped with some music files already stored on its hard disk. One of these can be used to check that playback is operating correctly. Navigate via the Front Panel Display Interface from the Home Menu to the Quick
Play menu and select Play Random to play a track.
To “rip” a CD to the HDX hard disk, use the front panel
open button to open the CD drawer. Insert a CD and
Installation - Getting Started

2.9 Data Backup

HDX does not incorporate an integral backup disk drive
and we strongly advise that you protect your stored music
by implementing a regular backup to a Network Attached
Storage (NAS) hard disk drive.
HDX backup must only be performed over the network and
we recommend that weekly, automated time-stamped,
differential backups are carried out. To help facilitate
backups, HDX music is made available as a read only
drive on the network.
The majority of commercially available NAS drives incorporate setup menus, accessed via a web browser, that enable regular automated backup of a specified target drive to be configured.
The automated backup setup procedure for the majority of NAS drives will be similar to the one described in the following steps.
Ensure that the NAS drive and Unitiserve are on the
same network and switched on. Read the NAS drive user instructions and make sure you understand its operation.
From a computer connected to the network open
a web browser application and browse to the NAS
backup drive setup menus. The network “name” or
“address” of the NAS drive will be provided in its user
documentation or on a label affixed to its case.
From the NAS drive setup menus, create a new
shared folder on the NAS drive called “HDX Backup”.
Again from the NAS drive setup menus, create a new
“backup job”. Select a remote, time-stamp backup
and type the HDX network “name” or “address”
(“NSHDX89B5” or “192.168.0.5” for example) in the
“host” text field. In the “path” field type “Music”. If
login and password fields are provided leave them
blank.
If a connection test facility is provided within the
setup menus, use it and wait for a positive result.
From the NAS drive setup menus, select the desired
backup format and schedule. We recommend
selecting a weekly, time-stamped, differential
backup. The initial backup may take a considerable
time to complete.
Note: The backup process may reduce HDX response
speed while it is underway. It is best to schedule backups
to run at times when the HDX is unlikely to be in use.
Note: A differential backup only records changes that
have occurred since the last backup.
Note: If a separate NAS drive is used for rip storage in
addition to the HDX internal storage, this must itself be
backed-up. The same NAS drive should not be used for
both primary rip storage and backup.
Note: As well as using a NAS drive for backup it is also
possible to use an automatic backup application running
on a network connected computer. This option however
requires sufficient hard disk space always to be available
on the computer, and that the computer is left running
permanently to ensure that scheduled backups are not
missed.
Note: HDX must be switched on for automated backups to
take place.
5
Installation - Getting Connected

3 Getting Connected

The HDX carries a variety of connection sockets on its rear panel. These are illustrated and described in the following diagrams and paragraphs. The numeric legends on the rear panel diagram refer to the numbered paragraphs in Section 3.2.

3.1 HDX Rear Panel

power switch
mains input and fuse
3.2.2
keyboard
3.2.1
mouse
socket
socket
3.2.3
VGA
display
interface
3.2.4
serial interface
interface
sockets
3.2.5
USB

3.2 HDX Connections

3.2.1 Keyboard Socket
Optionally connect a PS2 format keyboard here to control the HDX in combination with an external display.
3.2.2 Mouse Socket
Optionally connect a PS2 format mouse here to control the HDX in combination with an external display.
3.2.3 VGA Interface
Optionally connect a VGA format screen here to display the HDX External Display Interface.
3.2.4 Serial Interface
For use if the HDX is to be integrated into an RS232 controlled environment.
3.2.5 USB Interface Sockets
USB control or audio source devices may be connected here. USB source devices can be made available across a network.
3.2.6 Network Socket
Connect to your network router here. The HDX requires a working internet connection.
3.2.7 S-video and Composite Video Sockets
Connect an S-video or composite video screen (television) here for display of the HDX External Display Interface.
3.2.8 IR Input Socket
Optionally connect an RC5 control signal here for local control of the HDX from an IR control repeater.
network
socket
3.2.6
S-video and composite video sockets
3.2.7
3.2.9 Coax and Optical Digital Audio Outputs
3.2.10 Power Supply Upgrade
3.2.11 Output Selector
3.2.12 DIN Analogue Output (output 1)
3.2.13 Phono Analogue Output (output 2)
3.2.14 Signal Ground
3.2.12
3.2.8
remote input socket
optical digital
audio outputs
S/PDIF digital audio for connection to an audio system digital input. These TosLink and BNC outputs duplicate the analogue outputs.
Enables the connection of an upgrade XPS or 555PS power supply. The link plug fitted must be removed. See Diagram 3.3.
THE SXPS BURNDY CABLE ONLY MUST BE USED TO CONNECT
THE XPS OR 555PS POWER SUPPLIES.
Note: Both the HDX and upgrade power supply must be
switched off when the link plug is removed and cable
connections are made.
Selects output 1 (DIN), output 2 (phono) or both.
Analogue output from the HDX for connection to a local audio system. Use this option if connecting to a Naim system.
Analogue output from the HDX for connection to a local audio system. Use the DIN option in preference to the Phono option if connecting to a Naim system.
Optionally disconnects and “floats” the analogue signal ground from the chassis earth. Select chassis unless the HDX is installed in a hi-fi system incorporating another mains earthed source component or mains “hum” is audible from the loudspeakers.
3.2.10
power supply
upgrade socket
(link plug tted)
coax and
3.2.9
phono analogue
audio output
(output 2)
3.2.13
output selection
3.2.11
DIN
analogue
audio
output
(output 1)
signal ground
3.2.14
6
Installation - Getting Connected

3.3 HDX Connected to XPS Power Supply

power switch
THE HDX REQUIRES MAINS POWER AT ALL TIMES - WITH OR
mains input and fuse
mains input and fuse
WITHOUT AN EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLY.
THE SXPS BURNDY CABLE ONLY MUST BE USED TO CONNECT
THE XPS OR 555PS POWER SUPPLIES.
Cable direction marker
SXPS Burndy Cable
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