Home Theater Systems Reviews

Connections
Inputs:
Video: None
Audio: Coaxial digital (2), optical digital (1), RCA stereo analog (2), DIN stereo analog (1), front-panel 3.5-mm analog minijack (1)
Outputs:
Video: DVI-D (1), BNC progressive component/RGB (1), SCART interlaced component/composite (1), S-video (1)
Audio: Coaxial digital (1), 5.1 analog (1), DIN LR front (1), sub out (1)
Speaker

Outputs: Banana-plug receptacles

Additional: Demodulated Philips RC5 in/out (1), RS-232 (optional), FM tuner (optional)

These listings are based on the manufacturer's stated specs; the HT Labs box below indicates the gear's performance on our test bench.

Features
Compatible Playback Formats: DVD, DVD-R/-RW, DVD+R/+RW, CD, CD-R/
-RW, DVD-Audio, MP3 (CD)
Possible Playback Resolutions: 480p/480i
Processing Modes: Dolby: Digital 5.1, Pro Logic II
DTS: DTS, ES, 96/24, Neo:6
Number of Amp Channels: 5
Power Rating (watts, per channel): 50, into 8 ohms; 90,
into 4 ohms
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 3.4 x 17 x 12.4
Weight (pounds): 24.5
Price: $5,750

Ratings: Naim n-Vi Home Theater System

Build Quality: 95
• Handsome enclosure and front panel
• Has reliable disc transport
• The build actually has quality

Value: 85
• Does not try to compete in features per dollar
• Efficient Class-T amps will knock down power bills by at least a tiny bit

Features: 85
• Interfaces with Naim stereo preamps
• IR in/out for multizone use
• DVD-Audio, DVD, CD

Performance: 92
• Adept with both dialogue and soundfield construction
• Revealing, up-front sound
• Extended, airy treble

Ergonomics: 84
• Front panel looks handsome, but it's not entirely intuitive
• Backlit front-panel buttons handy in the dark
• Subpar, unlit remote

Overall Rating: 89
Naim's n-Vi extends the humble compact system into high-end territory by paring away nonessentials, including the notion of amplifier as space heater. It is handsome, solidly made, energy efficient, and as revealing in stereo as it is in surround.

General Information

n-Vi Home Theater System, $5,750
Naim Audio
(970) 416-0781
www.naim-audio.com / www.naimusa.com