Naim NSS 333

Cards on the table: we have been using Naim’s music streamers in our reference systems for around a decade now.

It’s not just because they sound good, which they do, but also because the company has continued to develop its streaming platform in a way most premium rivals haven’t. That they have proved reliable seals the deal.

This fully committed approach means that Naim’s streaming products tend to be up-to-date with features, and operate with a slickness that makes most rivals seem half-baked in comparison. The new NSS 333 music streamer we have on test here reinforces that positive impression.

This streamer is part of the company’s new 300 series, which also includes the NAC 332 preamplifier, NPX 300 outboard power supply and NAP 350 mono power amp. The NSS 333 sits above the almost as new NSC 222 streaming preamp in Naim’s hierarchy and justifies its price premium with even better sound quality. There is a downside though, and that’s the loss of the junior sibling’s analogue preamp functionality.

The NSS 333 still packs plenty in its solid and well-finished, all-new casework. The company’s well-proven NP800 streaming platform covers all important bases. It is a UPnP streamer and file compatibility is good, though not class-leading, with the unit able to play up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM files and DSD128. It has access to streaming services – Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Apple Music and Qobuz – plus the thousands of stations available through internet radio. As expected, network protocols such as Chromecast and Apple AirPlay 2 are included, as is the ability to read music files from attached USB storage. This Naim is also certified as Roon Ready.