Loudspeakers

Here are some questions we have been frequently asked over the years. This section will be updated as we encounter further questions.

  • Why does Naim not agree with bi-wiring and tri-wiring passive loudspeakers?

    It's true that we are not great fans of multi-wiring passive loudspeakers in accordance with current vogue. Our belief is that if the crossover has been correctly designed, a single run of cable between amplifier and loudspeaker offers the best sound, as well as making it easier for the amplifier to drive safely. Obviously, if the speaker crossover has been deliberately designed to sound better when bi- or   tri-wired, then it quite possibly will; but that's not to say that it wouldn't sound better overall if it were designed for single wiring in the first place, as our speakers are.

  • Naim always used to promote the need for rigid fixing of loudspeakers. Why then are Naim speakers designed in such a way that a certain amount of flexing of some components is possible?

    One of the principles behind the design of all our loudspeakers involves shifting unwanted system resonances outside of the audio bandwidth, thus reducing their effect upon the music signal. This is achieved by allowing key components to move at controlled rates and so isolate them from external vibration sources. Rigid fixing of loudspeakers can couple them to the energy stored within floor or wall surfaces, which is then reflected back into the system. Our approach combines a careful balance of rigidity and flexibility, so key components move predictably.

  • NACA5 loudspeaker cable is not user-friendly

    Well, we wouldn't claim that it's easy to use, but in many ways it is neater when installed - and more importantly sounds better - than other cables.When formed around corners and placed hard against skirting boards, it stays in place and doesn't tangle or twist like more flexible cables.