ND 555

The Naim ND 555 is a network player that combines Naim’s streaming platform with analogue audio technology developed over more than 4 decades. Its design includes a 40-bit SHARC processor with advanced signal processing, a suspended brass sub-chassis for isolating sound-critical circuits from vibration, and an external power supply developed for the player.

Naim has used low-voltage differential signalling, or LVDS, in a premium network player for the first time with the ND 555. The high-speed, low-noise circuit minimises timing errors and radiation while routing the digital audio signal. Its network card can decode most high-resolution audio formats at up to 32 bits/384 kHz, together with DSD128.

Rather than allowing the source to act as the digital timing master, the streaming board allows the DAC clock to control the flow of audio data. The signal is integer-over-sampled in the SHARC DSP to 40-bit accuracy before being passed to a Burr-Brown® PCM1704 true R2R ladder DAC.

The ND 555 also introduces Naim’s DR regulator technology to a network player. Used elsewhere in Naim amplifiers and power supplies, it provides DC voltage to the sensitive audio circuitry. The analogue stages use high-grade through-hole components and are mounted on sprung sub-chassis with heavy brass plates, reducing the effects of microphony.

Control is available through the Naim App for iOS and Android, which operates individual Naim products or several products together. The app provides access to music, radio presets, streaming services and playlists, and can synchronise several Naim players for multiroom playback. Artist discographies and biographies are also available. The same app controls the Uniti Core music server and can update the system wirelessly with a single tap.

A metal Zigbee® remote control is supplied for direct operation. It does not require line of sight to the player, allowing control from any direction. On the front panel, a 5” colour display shows album artwork and track information. Controls include keys for commonly used functions such as standby and input selection.

The Naim ND 555 can be used with a second 555 PS DR power supply and/or a Super Lumina interconnect cable for further audio performance.

Its capabilities extend from the solid groove of Bonham’s playing to Coltrane’s fast-moving scales, and the player can be partnered with Statement or 500 series amplification.