Naim
Naim Audio NSC 222 | Streaming Preamplifier | Martins Hi-Fi UK
Naim Audio NSC 222 | Streaming Preamplifier | Martins Hi-Fi UK
In stock
Naim Audio NSC 222 New Classic Streaming Preamplifier
The NSC 222 is Naim's streaming preamplifier for the New Classic 300 series. It combines a full streaming platform — AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Roon Ready, TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify Connect — with a true line-level preamplifier, an MM phono stage, and a headphone amplifier, in a single half-width chassis. It replaces both a streaming source and a preamplifier. Paired with a NAP 250 or NAP 350, it forms a complete and capable streaming system.
The NSC 222 can be used with its internal power supply or with an optional NPX 300 external power supply, which disables the internal supply and provides regulated power via DR technology regulators. This is not a cable swap — it is a meaningful change to the electrical foundation of the product, and one that Naim considers a significant upgrade path within the series.
Streaming
The streaming platform supports AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Chromecast, TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, Roon Ready, UPnP, and internet radio. Wi-Fi is 802.11 b/g/n/ac; wired Ethernet is 10/100Mbps. Audio formats include WAV up to 32bit/384kHz, FLAC and AIFF up to 24bit/384kHz, ALAC up to 24bit/384kHz, and DSD 64 and 128Fs. All streaming is controlled via the Focal and Naim app for iOS and Android, or via the Zigbee remote handset included with the unit.
Analogue Inputs
Two analogue inputs are provided: a 5-pin DIN (compatible with Naim source components) and a stereo RCA pair. Additionally, the built-in MM phono stage accepts a turntable directly — 47k/470pF loading, 5mV sensitivity with 23dB overload margin. This is not an afterthought; the phono stage uses the same care in the signal path that characterises the rest of the unit's analogue section.
Digital Inputs
Digital inputs cover coaxial RCA and BNC (both accepting up to 24bit/192kHz with DoP 64Fs for DSD), and two optical TOSLink inputs limited to 24bit/96kHz. A USB port on the front and rear supports both audio playback and device charging at 1.6A.
Outputs
The preamplifier outputs are balanced XLR pair and unbalanced RCA pair, both rated at 7Vrms maximum — enough headroom for any downstream power amplifier. A 6.35mm headphone jack delivers 1.5W into 16Ω for direct headphone listening. An optical 3.5mm output provides a synchronised control connection for compatible Naim components.
Display and Control
The 5.5-inch colour touchscreen shows source, volume, and streaming information. It can be operated by touch directly, by the included Zigbee remote, or entirely via the Focal and Naim app. The display can be dimmed or turned off during listening.
Technical Specifications
| Analogue inputs | 1 × MM phono (47k/470pF, 5mV); 1 × 8-pin DIN (5-pin DIN compatible); 1 × RCA stereo pair |
| Digital inputs | 2 × Optical TOSLink (up to 24bit/96kHz); 1 × Coaxial RCA (up to 24bit/192kHz, DoP 64Fs); 1 × Coaxial BNC (up to 24bit/192kHz, DoP 64Fs) |
| Analogue outputs | 1 × XLR pair (7Vrms max); 1 × RCA pair (7Vrms max) |
| Headphone output | 1 × 6.35mm jack (1.5W into 16Ω) |
| Streaming protocols | AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Chromecast, Internet Radio, Qobuz, Roon Ready, Spotify Connect, TIDAL, UPnP |
| Network | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac; Ethernet 10/100Mbps |
| Audio formats | WAV up to 32bit/384kHz; FLAC/AIFF up to 24bit/384kHz; DSD 64 and 128Fs; MP3, AAC, OGG, WMA, M4A |
| Frequency response (digital) | 3Hz to 27kHz −3dB |
| Frequency response (line) | 3Hz to 40kHz −3dB |
| Distortion (line) | 0.0025% @ 1kHz |
| Phono gain | 40dB |
| Preamplifier gain | 15.5dB maximum |
| Display | 5.5-inch colour touchscreen |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 432mm × 91.5mm × 317.5mm |
| Weight | 11kg |
| Power consumption | <0.5W quiescent; <2W standby; 25W normal use |
| Mains input | 115V or 230V, 50/60Hz |
Who Is It For?
The NSC 222 suits the listener who wants a genuine Naim source and preamplifier in the New Classic format without committing to separate components for each function. It is a natural choice for building a New Classic system around a NAP 250 or a pair of NAP 350 mono amplifiers — the XLR balanced outputs connect directly, and the whole system can grow with the addition of an NPX 300 external power supply when the listener is ready to take the next step.
The built-in MM phono stage and headphone amplifier mean this is a complete front end for many listeners — no additional boxes required for vinyl or headphone listening. If your system is built around a turntable and a power amplifier, the NSC 222 covers everything in between.
Buying from Martins Hi-Fi
Martins Hi-Fi has stocked Naim for many years. Naim was founded in 1973 in Salisbury and has been making British hi-fi separates ever since — the New Classic range is the sixth generation of the company's amplification, and it is the most capable yet. We have the New Classic system available to demonstrate properly at our Norwich showroom; if you want to hear what the NSC 222 does with a NAP 250 before you commit, call ahead and we will have it set up.
When you get in touch, you'll be speaking with Dave, Chris and Tim at info@martinshifi.co.uk, call 01603 627010, or WhatsApp on 07554 687137. You can read more about how we work on our Why Martins page. We are at 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY.
