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Reference Manual – English
NAC-N 172 XS NAC-N 272
Contents
Section |
Page |
Introduction |
1 |
1. NAC-N preamplifier Components and Audio Sources |
1 |
1.1 Preamplifier |
1 |
1.2 Multi-mode Radio |
1 |
1.3 USB Audio Interface |
1 |
1.4 UPnP™ Audio Interface |
2 |
1.5 Spotify® Connect |
2 |
1.6 Multiroom Streaming |
2 |
1.7 Bluetooth® Streaming |
2 |
2. Installing and Connecting |
3 |
2.1 Mains Power Connection |
3 |
2.2 Audio Signal Connections |
4 |
2.3 Headphone Output |
5 |
2.4 DAB/FM Aerial Connection |
5 |
2.5 Signal Ground Switch |
5 |
2.6 USB Interface |
5 |
2.7 Network Connections |
5 |
2.8 Bluetooth |
6 |
2.9 System Automation |
6 |
2.10 Control and Update Sockets |
6 |
2.12 Connections |
7 |
2.13 Diagram Icons |
8 |
3. Operation and Control |
9 |
3.1 Front Panel Buttons |
9 |
3.2 Front Panel Display |
9 |
3.3 Remote Control Handset |
11 |
3.4 The Naim App |
12 |
4. Set Up |
14 |
4.1 The Setup Home Menu |
14 |
4.2 The Language Menu |
14 |
4.3 The Inputs Menu |
14 |
4.4 The Rooms Menu |
16 |
4.5 The Analogue Outputs Menu |
16 |
4.6 The Headphones Menu |
16 |
4.7 The Network Settings Menu |
16 |
4.8 The Front Display Menu |
18 |
4.9 The Digital Output Menu |
18 |
4.10 The Clock and Alarm Menu |
18 |
4.11 The Handset Keys Menu |
19 |
4.12 The System Automation Menu |
20 |
4.13 The Factory Settings Menu |
20 |
Section |
Page |
5. Preamplifier |
21 |
5.1 Selecting Inputs |
21 |
5.2 Volume Control |
21 |
5.3 Preamplifier Display |
21 |
5.4 Signal Outputs |
21 |
6. Multi-format Tuner |
22 |
6.1 FM Tuner – Seeking Stations |
22 |
6.2 DAB Tuner – Seeking Stations |
22 |
5.3 iRadio Tuner – Seeking Stations |
22 |
6.4 Adding iRadio Stations |
23 |
6.5 Storing Radio Presets |
23 |
6.6 Selecting Radio Presets |
23 |
7. USB Audio |
24 |
7.1 USB Media and File Compatibility |
24 |
7.2 iOS Device Compatibility and Charging |
24 |
7.3 Browsing and Playing USB Files |
24 |
8. Network Audio Streaming |
25 |
8.1 UPnP™ Streaming |
25 |
8.2 Spotify® Connect Streaming |
26 |
8.3 Multiroom Streaming |
27 |
9. Bluetooth Streaming |
28 |
10. Specifications |
29 |
11. Acknowledgements and Declarations |
30 |
Introduction
Welcome to Naim and congratulations on your purchase. This manual covers the NAC-N preamplifiers: NAC-N 172 XS and NAC-N 272. The NAC-N preamplifiers are highly capable products that will repay time and effort spent on installation and configuration and we strongly recommend that you read this manual in full. The manual provides comprehensive information on all NAC-N features and facilities and will enable you to set up your product either to integrate with your existing music systems and media, or to form the heart of a new system.
NAC-N preamplifiers incorporate separate components and can play audio from a variety of sources. Each of the components and sources is introduced in the following Section 1 paragraphs and subsequently described in full detail in Sections 5 to 9. Sections 2 to 4 cover installation and set up.
NAC-N preamplifiers can be controlled from their front panels, the supplied remote control handset, and from the Naim app freely available from the Apple iTunes App Store and the Google Play Store.
1. NAC-N preamplifier Components and Audio Sources
1.1 Preamplifier
1.1.1 Inputs
NAC-N preamplifiers provide external analogue and digital audio inputs. The number of external inputs provided varies with each product.
In addition to the conventional analogue and digital inputs, NAC-N preamplifiers can also play audio from the the following external sources:
•Internet radio via a wired network socket or wireless network connection.
•DAB and FM radio via an external aerial.
•iOS (iPod, iPhone and iPad) and UMS (Universal Mass Storage) USB memory devices via a USB interface.
•Universal plug and play (UPnP™) servers holding audio files via a wired or wireless network connection.
•Spotify® streams via a wired or wireless network connection from the Spotify® Connect feature incorporated in some Spotify® player apps.
•Bluetooth® audio streams from Bluetooth equipped hardware such as iOS, Android and Windows Phone mobile devices running a suitable music player app. Bluetooth is only available on the NAC-N 272.
•Music streams from other Naim streamer products connected to the same network.
1.1.2 Signal Outputs
NAC-N preamplifiers provide a variety of signal outputs. The number and type of signal outputs varies with each product. They are tabulated in Section 2.2.1.
1.2 Multi-mode Radio
The NAC-N preamplifier multi-mode radio combines an internet radio (iRadio) player and optional DAB/FM tuner.
A total of 40 radio stations across all three modes can be stored as presets. In DAB and FM mode, stations are tuned by scanning the respective transmission bands. In iRadio mode, a list of available radio stations is automatically downloaded from a dedicated internet server. iRadio requires broadband internet access via a home network connection.
The DAB tuner incorporates full broadcast and station display capabilities. The FM tuner is fully RDS (Radio Data System) capable.
Note: DAB and RDS broadcasts are not available in all territories.
1.3 USB Audio Interface
NAC-N preamplifiers can play audio files stored on USB memory hardware such as iOS mobile devices or memory sticks. See Section 7 for more information.
Note: Compatible audio file formats are listed in Section 7.1.
1
1.NAC-N preamplifier Components and Audio Sources
1.4UPnP™ Audio Interface
NAC-N preamplifiers can connect to a home network and play audio files stored on appropriately configured UPnP™ servers. See Section 8.1 for more information.
Note: Compatible audio file formats are listed in Section 8.1.1.
1.5 Spotify® Connect
NAC-N preamplifiers can connect to a home network and play Spotify® Connect audio streams from devices running an appropriate Spotify® app. A Spotify® Premium account is required. See Section 8.2 for more information.
Note: Spotify® Connect is not available in all countries. For a list of availability by country visit the support pages at www.spotify.com/connect.
1.6 Multiroom Streaming
NAC-N preamplifiers can play audio streams from other Naim streamer products connected to the same home network. Similarly, NAC-N preamplifiers can simultaneously broadcast audio playing from their UPnP™, iRadio, or USB inputs to a maximum of four other Naim streamer products connected to the same network. See Section 8.3 for more information.
1.7 Bluetooth® Streaming
NAC-N 272
The NAC-N 272 can play Bluetooth audio streams from Bluetooth devices running an appropriate audio playback app. See Section 9 for more information.
2
2. Installing and Connecting
Your NAC-N preamplifier should be installed on an equipment stand intended for the purpose. Do not stand it directly on top of another item of equipment. Ensure it is well ventilated. Care should be taken to ensure that it is level. It should be installed in its final location before connecting cables or switching on. NAC-N preamplifiers have no standby mode and are intended to be left switched on.
Connecting your NAC-N preamplifier to mains power and to a variety of audio peripherals and sources is described in the following paragraphs. Diagram 2.12 illustrates connection sockets and control features.
2.1 Mains Power Connection
NAC-N 172 XS
Connect your NAC-N 172 XS to a mains power supply using either the mains cable supplied or a Naim Power-Line.
NAC-N 272
The NAC-N 272 can either be connected directly to a mains power supply or, for improved performance, powered by an external XP5 XS, XPS or 555PS power supply.
If your NAC-N 272 is to be connected directly to a mains power supply, insert the supplied power supply upgrade link plug in the rear panel Burndy socket and connect the NAC-N 272 to the mains supply using either the mains cable supplied or a Naim Power-Line. Do not switch on the NAC-N272 until all its other connections are made.
If your NAC-N272 is to be powered by an external power supply, the power supply upgrade link plug is not required. Instead, connect the external power supply to the
NAC-N 272 power supply upgrade socket using a Naim SXPS Burndy power supply cable.
Note: Your local local Naim retailer or distributor will be able to supply an SXPS Burndy cable if required.
The power supply should be switched off while connection is made and remain switched off until all other NAC-N
272 connections are made. The NAC-N 272 should not be connected directly to mains power when an external power supply is used.
Important: XPS power supplies with serial numbers below 188015 are not compatible with the NAC-N 272 and should not be used. Contact your local Naim retailer or distributor for more information.
The NAC-N 272 rear panel mains switch has no function when an external power supply is connected.
3
2.Installing and Connecting
2.2Audio Signal Connections
Table 2.2.1 lists the audio inputs and outputs provided on each NAC-N preamplifier. Always use high quality interconnect cables to connect inputs and outputs.
Note: Post volume control output signals are affected by volume and balance adjustments. Pre volume control output signals are unaffected by volume and balance adjustments and must be routed via a volume control before reaching a power amplifier.
2.2.1 Audio Signal Inputs and Outputs
NAC-N 172 XS
Type |
Name |
Format |
Notes |
Input |
an. 1 |
Analogue 5-pin DIN |
Fixed volume capable |
Input |
an. 2 |
Analogue RCA phonos |
Fixed volume capable |
Input |
Front |
Analogue 3.5mm jack |
Combined auto-switching analogue/digital socket |
|
|
Digital 3.5mm miniTosLink |
S/PDIF (to 96kHz/24bit) format |
Input |
dig. 1 |
Digital coaxial (RCA phono) |
S/PDIF (to 192kHz/24bit) format |
Input |
dig. 2 |
Digital optical (TosLink) |
S/PDIF (to 96kHz/24bit) format |
Input |
dig. 3 |
Digital coaxial (RCA phono) |
S/PDIF (to 192kHz/24bit) format |
Input |
dig. 4 |
Digital optical (TosLink) |
S/PDIF (to 96kHz/24bit) format |
Output |
Preamp |
Analogue 4-pin DIN |
Post volume control |
Output |
Preamp |
Analogue RCA phonos |
Post volume control |
Output |
Line |
Analogue RCA phonos |
Pre volume control |
Note: The NAC-N 172 XS Series front analogue/digital jack input socket can accommodate both conventional analogue 3.5mm plugs and miniTosLink optical digital plugs. It will automatically identify the type of plug inserted and handle the signal appropriately. See Section 4.3.9.
NAC-N 272
Type |
Name |
Format |
Notes |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Input |
an. 1 |
Analogue 5-pin DIN |
Fixed volume capable |
|
Input |
an. 2 |
Analogue RCA phonos |
Fixed volume capable |
|
Input |
an. 3 |
Analogue RCA phonos |
Fixed volume capable |
|
Input |
dig. 1 |
Digital coaxial (BNC) |
S/PDIF (to 192kHz/24bit) or DSD64 formats |
|
Input |
dig. 2 |
Digital coaxial (RCA phono) |
S/PDIF (to 192kHz/24bit) or DSD64 formats |
|
Input |
dig. 3 |
Digital coaxial (RCA phono) |
S/PDIF (to 192kHz/24bit) or DSD64 formats |
|
Input |
dig. 4 |
Digital optical (TosLink) |
S/PDIF (to 96kHz/24bit) or DSD64 formats |
|
Input |
dig. 5 |
Digital optical (TosLink) |
S/PDIF (to 96kHz/24bit) or DSD64 formats |
|
Input |
dig. 6 |
Digital optical (TosLink) |
S/PDIF (to 96kHz/24bit) or DSD64 formats |
|
Output |
Preamp |
Analogue 4-pin DIN x 2 |
Post volume control |
|
Output |
Preamp |
Analogue RCA phonos |
Post volume control |
|
Output |
Line |
Analogue RCA phonos |
Pre volume control |
|
Output |
Line |
Digital coaxial (BNC) |
Pre volume control. S/PDIF (to 192kHz/24bit) format |
|
Note: NAC-N preamplifier outputs are intended for connection to a power amplifier or a subwoofer. Preamplifier outputs always reflect the selected input. Your local Naim retailer will be able to supply appropriate cables for power amplifier or subwoofer connection if necessary.
4
2. Installing and Connecting
2.3 Headphone Output
The NAC-N 172 XS and NAC-N 272 are equipped on their front panels with 3.5mm and 6.3mm stereo headphone sockets respectively. Insertion of a headphone plug will mute the preamplifier outputs. Removal of the plug will restore the outputs.
Note: NAC-N preamplifiers control and store volume and balance settings separately for headphones and speakers.
2.4 DAB/FM Aerial Connection
The NAC-N preamplifier DAB/FM tuner module requires a strong, interference-free signal to enable high quality DAB and FM reproduction. The rear panel DAB/FM Aerial socket should be connected, via 75 ohm low-loss coaxial cable, to a suitable aerial. The aerial should be mounted clear of large obstructions and as high as possible; ideally on a roof.
Note: Your local Naim retailer should be able to offer advice on a suitable aerial and aerial installer.
2.5 Signal Ground Switch
Your NAC-N preamplifier is fitted on its rear panel with a Signal Ground switch offering two positions: Chassis and Floating. Select the Chassis position unless the NAC-N preamplifier 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: “Connected” in the context above means an analogue audio signal cable that includes an earth connection. The digital inputs are isolated from the mains earth regardless of the Signal Ground switch.
Note: All Naim CD players are earthed so the Signal Ground switch should be set to floating if one is connected in the system.
No damage will be done if the wrong Signal Ground position is chosen, however the system sound quality may be compromised.
Note: NAC-N preamplifier analogue input and output negative connections for each channel are common. The mains earth (ground) should always be connected regardless of what other equipment is used. The mains earth primarily grounds the case and the electrostatic screen within the transformer, and is only connected to the signal negative if the Signal Ground switch is set to Chassis. In order to avoid hum loops, the signal negative of the whole system should be connected to the mains earth in one place only.
2.6 USB Interface
NAC-N preamplifiers are fitted with a front panel USB interface intended for the connection of iOS devices and USB memory sticks carrying audio files. The USB interface should not be used for any other purpose.
Note: Most UMS (Universal Mass Storage) USB memory sticks are compatible with the NAC-N preamplifier USB audio interfaces. Other UMS devices might include portable digital music players, smart-phones, tablet computers and memory card readers. Non-UMS USB devices, such as older MP3 players, may be connected to a NAC-N preamplifier analogue audio input from their headphone sockets. See Section 7 for more information.
Depending on the setup options chosen (see Section 4.3.6), iOS device batteries will be charged when connected to the USB interface.
2.7 Network Connections
2.7.1 Wired Network Connection
NAC-N preamplifiers are fitted on their rear panels with a standard RJ45 Ethernet socket. This socket enables them to join home networks via a network router to access internet radio data streams, to play audio files stored on UPnP™ servers, to play Spotify® streams, and to play from or broadcast to other Naim streamers on the same network.
Note: Ethernet-over-mains hardware may be used and provides a simple and convenient method of wired 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 as the preferred option, or alternatively wireless networking can be employed.
2.7.2 Wireless Network Connection
If your NAC-N preamplifier is to connect wirelessly to the home network, the supplied Wi-Fi aerial must be fitted to the rear panel Wi-Fi aerial socket. Wireless configuration will also be necessary before network connection can be made. See Section 4.7.1.
Note: The Wi-Fi aerial is the longer one if two are supplied.
Note: An optional high-gain Wi-Fi antenna, the WA5, is available. The WA5 may improve Wi-Fi connection
reliability in some installations. Contact your Naim retailer for more information.
5
2. Installing and Connecting
2.7.3 Network Settings
NAC-N preamplifiers are set up when originally shipped not to require any network configuration but to connect to networks automatically (DHCP is used by default). However, if your NAC-N preamplifier has been previously used, its network configuration may have been altered leaving it unable to connect automatically. If this appears to be the case ensure that DHCP is selected in the Network Settings menu and re-start the unit. If the problem still persists carry out a Factory Reset operation (by selecting Reset All Settings from the Factory Settings setup menu) and try again.
Note: Wireless configuration data and user radio presets will be deleted during the Factory Reset operation.
2.8 Bluetooth
NAC-N 272
The NAC-N-272 is able to play Bluetooth audio streams from Bluetooth capable devices incorporating an appropriate audio playback app. The Bluetooth aerial supplied must be fitted to the rear panel Bluetooth aerial socket.
Note: The Bluetooth aerial is the shorter of the two supplied.
2.9 System Automation
NAC-N preamplifiers can be linked using System Automation to control some Naim CD players. This enables a Naim CD player to be controlled from the Naim iOS and Android app.
To take advantage of System Automation, connect the NAC-N preamplifier rear panel Remote Out socket to the CD player Remote In socket. Use a cable terminated with a 3.5mm jack plug at one end and a 3.5mm jack or phono plug as necessary at the other end.
Note: Stereo and mono 3.5mm jack to 3.5mm jack can be used for System Automation. If a stereo 3.5mm jack to phono plug cable is used, connect the left channel phono plug.
Note: System Automation is switched off by default. A full description of its configuration and use can be found in Section 4.12.
2.10 Control and Update Sockets
NAC-N preamplifiers are fitted on their rear panels with remote control and update interface sockets.
•In addition to System Automation (see Section 2.9) the Remote In and Out sockets can be used for RC5 remote control via a wired connection or a remote IR repeater.
•The Mini-USB socket enable firmware upgrades and diagnostic tests to be carried out. Contact your Naim retailer for more information if required.
Note: The mini-USB interface is not intended for the connection of USB memory devices.
6
2. Installing and Connecting
2.12 Connections
NAC-N 172 XS
2.0
1.0
play |
input |
|
ok |
|
list |
input |
|
stop |
exit |
NAC-N 272 |
|
|
|
|
|
Contains |
Bluetooth |
|
|
|
|
|
Transmitter |
|
|
|
Modules FCC ID: |
|
|
|
ZUCSEDMP3 |
|
|
|
2ACURBLUE |
|
|
|
IC:12217A-BLUE |
|
|
dig. 2 |
dig. 3 |
|
|
dig.1 |
|
|
|
|
dig. 4 |
dig. 5 |
dig. 6 |
|
|
|
2.0 |
1.0 |
7
2. Installing and Connecting
2.13 Diagram Icons
Analogue signal
S/PDIF digital audio signal
USB audio data
Optional FM radio
Optional DAB radio
Headphones
IEC mains supply
Signal Ground Switch
W-Fi aerial
Bluetooth aerial
Wired network
RC5 remote control signal
2.0
Firmware upgrade socket
1.0
Optional 555PS power supply
Optional XPS power supply
Optional XP5 XS power supply
Volume control
Logo touch mute and un-mute
8
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