Description

The Naim Supernait 3 is the culmination of six years of research and development dedicated to improving the NAIT integrated amplifier range. A profound evolution from the previous model, it now represents one of the absolute benchmarks in the high-end hi-fi integrated amplifier category , capable of delivering the combination of pace, cohesion, and naturalness that has always distinguished Naim sound.

One of the most significant updates over the previous generation is the integration of a PHONE MM stadium directly into the circuit. Anyone wondering what is the best integrated amplifier to match with a turntable will find the Supernait 3 an answer withvincentand: the input impedance is fixed at 47 kΩ in parallel with a 470 pF capacitive load, with gain optimized for moving magnet (MM) cartridges with 5 mV output. The phono circuit topology consists of three distinct stages — initial gain, passive equalization, final gain with active equalization — ensuring excellent noise performance, aRIAA equalization extended beyond the audio bandwidth and ample reserve for transient management. All RIAA capacitors and resistors are mounted using a through-hole technique, a choice that reduces microphone sensitivity and improves transient response.

The Class A preamp stage serves double duty: it feeds the signal to the variable outputs and doubles as a quality headphone amplifier , accessible via the 6,35mm jack on the front panel. Ceramic heatsink cooling technology minimizes capacitive coupling between the chassis and the output transistors, helping to keep the noise floor low and preserve signal purity.

The amplifier section has undergone substantial modifications. The speed of the voltage gain stage has been more than doubled, with a corresponding increase in the slew rate in the output stage to the speakers. The elimination of the cascaded transistor stage in the second gain stage has reduced the demand for stabilization, resulting in a faster response and a further leap in perceived sound quality. Power output is 80W per channel into 8 ohms and 130W per channel into 4 ohms , values that allow for the authoritative driving of speakers of various types and sensitivities.

Each input is individually decoupled and hand-wired directly onto the circuit boards, minimising interference and switching noise. Internal switches use ultra-low noise DC supplies derived from the design of the flagship Naim NAC 552 reference preamplifier. The integrated 24V DR module applies Naim Discrete Regulation technology to the entire preamplifier section, ensuring a more stable supply voltage and cleaner performance. A larger toroidal transformer ensures high current reserves and rapid recovery from demanding dynamic transients.

The Alps Blue Velvet volume potentiometer , used for both volume and balance, is a construction choice that reflects Naim's approach: every component in the signal path must contribute positively to sound quality, without compromise. Input selection is via reed relays , ultra-low resistance contacts that preserve the integrity of the switched signal. The microphonically isolated PCB supports and the galvanically isolated microprocessor control section complete a construction picture of rare care.

The Supernait 3 offers five line-level analogue inputs, plus a MM phono input, and is compatible with sources in the 0,5 to 5,0V range. Outputs include fixed line (AV and Stream on DIN) and variable outputs (pre-amp on DIN, sub on RCA). A dedicated +24V output is also provided for Naim separate phono amplifiers, confirming the device's vocation for growth over time via a modular upgrade path : external power supplies, separate power amplifiers and cabling upgrades are all viable options for those wishing to evolve their system without sacrificing the heart of the system.

Specifications

Amplification type	class AB
RMS power per channel	80 W
Reference load	8 ohm
Stadio phono	MM
Analog inputs	5 line level inputs + MM phono
Weight	13.4 kg
Dimensions (WxHxD)	432 x 87 x 314 mm
Electricity consumption	400 W
Alimentazione	100V / 115V / 230V – 50 or 60 Hz
Line input sensitivity	130 mV
Input impedance	47 kOhm
Phono load impedance	470 Ω
country of origin	UK
Trim	black
Year of production	2027