Naim DAC Inclusion: Per-Product Reference
Naim DAC Inclusion: Per-Product Reference
Knowing whether a Naim product includes an integrated DAC determines the correct signal chain — analogue or digital interconnects, whether an external DAC is needed, and how digital sources connect.
DAC Inclusion by Product Family
| Category | Product | DAC included | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Streamers | ND555 | Yes | Reference-level DAC (Burr-Brown PCM1704K); analogue outputs via DIN and RCA |
| Streamers | NSS 333 | Yes | Burr-Brown PCM1791a; compatible with NPX 300, XPS DR, and 555 PS DR external power supplies |
| Streamers | NDX 2 | Yes | High-performance DAC; supports up to 32-bit/384 kHz and DSD128 |
| Streamers | ND5 XS 2 | Yes | Entry-level DAC; same format support as NDX 2 |
| All-in-One | Uniti Atom | Yes | Integrated DAC for streaming and amplification |
| All-in-One | Uniti Star | Yes | DAC included; also plays CDs but does not rip them |
| All-in-One | Uniti Nova | Yes | High-end all-in-one with DAC and class-leading amplification |
| Music Server | Uniti Core | No | No DAC; used for ripping and serving music files only |
| Mu-so | Mu-so 2nd Generation | Yes | DAC integrated; functions as a complete speaker system |
| Mu-so | Mu-so Qb 2nd Generation | Yes | Compact version of Mu-so; built-in DAC |
Why It Matters on Installation
- Products with a DAC can serve as the complete digital source in the chain. Connect them directly to a power amplifier or integrated amplifier via DIN or RCA analogue outputs.
- Uniti Core (no DAC) outputs digital audio only. It must feed a DAC-equipped device — typically an ND5 XS 2, NDX 2, or one of the Uniti range — over S/PDIF or USB.
- Interconnect choice: a product with an onboard DAC uses analogue interconnects to the amplifier stage. If the product has no DAC, use digital (S/PDIF coaxial or optical) to a downstream DAC.
This article was adapted from Naim Audio's original guidance: "Does my product have a DAC?" — https://www.naimaudio.com/help/does-my-product-have-a-dac Habitech-edited for UK trade installer context. Original © Naim Audio Ltd.