2. amps-preamps
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Why does the amplifier left speaker go right and the right go left?

The Naim Supernait 3 integrated amplifier has a unique setup for its speaker terminals that may appear counterintuitive at first glance. When facing the amplifier, the speaker inputs are indeed arranged such that the left speaker cables need to be connected to the right side inputs and vice versa.

This means when facing the amplifier, the speaker cables are indeed connected in a manner that might appear reversed: the left speaker cables are connected to the right side inputs and vice versa. So users must ‘crisscross’ the cables to connect them correctly.

i was told “This setup is due to the specific design and layout of the amplifier’s rear panel, which includes various input and output connections, including proprietary DIN inputs and RCA jacks. The speaker terminals are located to the right of the power inlet and rocker switch, and they use Naim’s custom connectors designed to comply with EU safety regulations. This arrangement is part of Naim’s overall design philosophy to optimize performance and minimize mechanical noise, which includes careful isolation of components and specific wiring practices”.

This seems strange but this is the way it works. It is important to follow this setup to ensure proper sound channeling and performance. I wanted everyone to be aware.

hgeifman

Showing 1 response by onhwy61

onhwy61's avatar
onhwy61
5,300 posts
 

I don't find this to be an issue in the least.  Assuming the owner/user can read, it should be easy to set up correctly.

The issue of rear panel layout probably doesn't get the attention it should.  For myself a big bugaboo is the placement of the power cord inlet.  It really should be as far away as possible from both low level input/outputs and loudspeaker cable outputs, but that's not always the case.  The worst situation tends to be where the inlet is placed between the left and right channel I/Os.  It makes it very difficult to not cross power cables with signal carrying cables.

Why is the industry locked into the rear panel paradigm?  If a component is in the shape of a box (and that's a whole other paradigm), then there are six sides where connections could be placed.  In the language of the audiophile separating the power cables from the signal cables would result in a profound sonic improvement easily equal to a major component upgrade.

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