Naim as TV Audio: Soundbar Compatibility Guide
TV Audio Integration: What to Expect from Naim Products
Naim equipment is engineered for audiophile music reproduction — not home cinema processing. However, many products do support TV audio input, and some integrate well into AV setups depending on the client's requirements.
Key setup rule: For any Naim product with HDMI ARC or optical input, set the TV's audio output to PCM stereo (sometimes labelled "stereo" or "two channel"). Dolby Digital and surround formats must be disabled — Naim products do not decode multichannel audio.
Per-Product Compatibility
Mu-so 2nd Generation
- Can be used directly as a soundbar
- HDMI ARC and optical input for TV connection
- Switch between TV audio and streaming inputs via the Focal & Naim app
- Suitable for casual home cinema setups alongside music use
Mu-so Qb 2nd Generation
- Has an optical input but compact cabinet limits stereo image benefit
- Not recommended as a primary TV audio solution
Uniti Range (Atom, Star, Nova)
- No integrated speakers — requires a pair of passive speakers
- HDMI ARC (most models) and optical input fitted
- TV audio is processed through Naim's DAC and amplification — high quality
- AV bypass on analogue inputs allows a separate AV processor/receiver to drive the Uniti as left/right amplifier in a wider AV system
- Lip sync adjustment available in the Focal & Naim app
NSC 222
- No speakers or amplification — pairs with a Naim power amplifier and passive speakers
- Optical input fitted for TV connection
- AV bypass on analogue inputs; AV processor integration possible
Separate Streamers (ND5 XS 2, NDX 2, NSS 333, ND555)
- No speakers or amplification — require Naim amplification and passive speakers
- Optical input on all models
- Lip sync adjustment via the Focal & Naim app
Installer Recommendation
For clients wanting a single-box TV + music solution, the Mu-so 2 is the only Naim product that works as a genuine soundbar replacement. For Uniti and NSC 222 installs, plan the passive speaker placement and AV bypass configuration at system design stage.
This article was adapted from Naim's original guidance: "Can my product be used as a soundbar" — https://www.naimaudio.com/help/can-my-product-be-used-as-a-soundbar Habitech-edited for UK trade installer context. Original © Naim Audio Limited.