Depending on how many sources you still use and the size of your listening space, the Naim CI-Uniti 102 might make the most sense for a surprising number of listeners when you look at it objectively.
If you are familiar with the Uniti Atom, the CI-Uniti 102 feels like the award-winning network amplifier, but more like a pair of Buck Mason skinny jeans with one less pocket and the same degree of expandability in the hands of a good tailor.
The CI-Uniti 102 can function as a simple two-channel streaming amplifier or hub for a multi-room system with more than enough power for in-wall/in-ceiling speakers or even a pair bookshelf loudspeakers in a living room or den.
Naim has already proven that it can build a streaming platform that delivers easy access to all of the relevant streaming apps and it’s not very difficult to set-up. It is also customisable using DSP and EQ for your listening space.
And who doesn’t like an amplifier that can be hidden so easily?
Overview
The CI-Uniti 102 is a streamer/amplifier that is designed to provide optimized musical performance from both streaming and physical sources for custom installation needs.
The CI-Uniti 102 can be installed in a variety of indoor and outdoor settings, providing amplification for CI Focal speakers and any other loudspeaker that you might be considering at this price point.
The CI-Uniti 102’s DSP provides system calibration and it also easily connects to its partner components, the NAIM CI-NAP 108 and CI-NAP 101 power amplifiers.
Control is accessible via the Focal & Naim application and home control platforms such as Crestron, Control4, RTI, Savant, and Elan.
Additionally, the Focal & Naim Manager software provides system configuration support for the CI-Uniti 102. Here are some examples:
- Speaker Profiles for each loudspeaker in the CI Focal catalogue.
- EQs for on-the-spot calibration.
- Crossovers for use with subwoofers.
- A limiter to control maximum listening levels.
- Delays for temporal alignment.
- Configuration settings for use on a Dante network.
- Source selection setup for users.
Other capabilities that can be set up and controlled by the integrator or user:
- Wired and wireless streaming capabilities (TIDAL, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz, Spotify, UPnP™, Internet Radio, Airplay 2, and ChromeCast).
- Versatile connectivity (HDMI, Bluetooth, S/PDIF, analog).
- Compact integrated power amplifier with the ability to supply 150W at 8 ohms.
- Two independent stereo RCA outputs that can be used for subwoofers or sub-zones.
- Multiroom capability for up to 32 rooms.
- “Trigger” outputs provide remote standby for the companion Naim CI-NAP 108 and CI-NAP 101 power amps if needed.
- Rack mount installation that can be hidden if desired.
Specifications
| Price | $1,499 USD |
| Product Type | Streaming Amp |
| Number of Channels | 4 x Line 2 x Amp |
| Frequency Response (Line) | (-3 db) 5Hz – 70kHz |
| THD+N | <0,006% |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) | 110dB (A-Weighted) |
| Analog Gain | 29dB |
| Analog Inputs | 1 x Analog – Stereo RCA – (47kΩ / 2.5V RMS) |
| Analog Outputs | Main: 1 Stereo RCA Speaker Outputs: Terminal block / Euroblock / Banana connector – 4mm Sub/Aux: 1 Stereo RCA |
| Power Output | 8Ω 150W 4Ω 260W 2Ω 480W |
| Digital Inputs | S/PDIF – up to 96kHz / 24bit HDMI eARC – LPCM up to 192kHz/24-bit Stereo |
| Supported Sampling Rates | Up to 32-bit/384kHz |
| Network | RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet – compatible with IPv4 and IPv6 WiFi 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) – 2×2 MIMO – External antenna |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth LE 5.1 – External antenna shared with Wifi |
| Multi-Room Audio | Naim Multiroom – Up to 32 devices on a single session Compatible with all generations of Naim streamers |
| Streaming Services | TIDAL TIDAL Connect Spotify Connect – Free + Premium support Qobuz UPnP with play queue Internet Radio + Podcast Airplay 2 ChromeCast v2 Dante Receiver – 48kHz supported Bluetooth Classic Audio Receiver. SBC + AAC supported |
| User Interface | Focal & Naim App – Basic use Focal & Naim Manager – Configuration |
| Compatible OS | iOS and Android for Focal & Naim App Windows, MacOS for Focal & Naim Manager |
| Integration Partners | Control4, Crestron, EAN, Savant |
| Wired Automation | 2 x 1/8″ (3.5mm) mono jack connectors – 12V trigger outputs |
| Rack Height | 1U |
| Power Consumption (Network Standby Mode) | 0.5W |
| Power Consumption (In Use) | 70W |
| Mains Power Supply | 100V to 240V +/-10%, 50/60Hz |
| Dimension (HWD) | 1-3/4 x 11-3/4 x 11-3/4 inches (4.45 x 30 x 30 cm) |
| Weight | 9.9 lbs (4.5kg) |
Pro Tip: The CI-Uniti 102 is one of Naim’s CI Series components. For more details, refer to our previous report.
The Bottom Line
The Naim CI-Uniti 102 is not the first of its kind in the CI category. Both NAD and Anthem have already introduced rack mountable streaming amplifiers for less than $2,500 and we’re likely to review a sample of the Anthem MRX SLM AVR in a forthcoming column of the Cabin Audiophiler.
If you only require streaming and one additional source like a CD player or turntable – the Naim CI-Uniti 102 could be all you really need.
Price & Availability
The Naim CI-Uniti 102 is priced at $1,499 USD at Crutchfield ($1,949 CAD) and is available through Focal Powerd by Naim Stores and other Authorized Dealers and Online Retailers
Pro Tip: The price does not include professional installation and setup.
For more information: naimaudio.com
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