NAIM Solstice User manual

1
User Manual – English
TURNTABLE • PHONO STAGE • POWER SUPPLY

4
Contents
Section Page
Introduction 1
1. Connections 1
2. Mains Power 1
3. General Installation 2
4. Solstice Special Edition System Components 4
5. Solstice Special Edition Box Contents 9
6. Solstice Special Edition Assembly and Set Up 12
7. System Connections 19
8. Specications 21
9. Digital Stylus Gauge 23
10. Power Supply Connection Details 25
11. Product Recycling 26

1 2
Introduction
Naim Audio products are conceived with performance as the top priority.
Careful installation will help ensure that their full potential is achieved. This
manual covers the Solstice Special Edition vinyl replay system. It begins
with some general installation notes. Product specific information begins in
Section 4.
1. Connections
It is important for both safety and performance that the standard cables
supplied are not modied.
1.1 Interconnect Cables
Naim interconnect cables that share the same connector on each end are
marked with a band to establish correct orientation. The band denotes the
end that connects to the signal source. Naim Super Lumina interconnect
cable will provide the best results.
Interconnect plugs and sockets should be kept clean and free from corrosion.
The easiest way to clean them is to switch o the equipment, pull the plugs
out of their sockets, and push them back in again. Contact cleaners and
“enhancers” should not be used as the lm they deposit may degrade
the sound.
2. Mains Power
Use only the mains leads and plugs supplied or the Naim PowerLine
mains cable.
Where fused plugs are used, 13 amp fuses should be tted. Fuses of a lower
rating will fail after a period of use. Do not wire voltage dependent resistors
or noise suppressors into mains plugs. They degrade the mains supply and
the sound.
2.1 Mains Plug Wiring
In some territories a mains plug may need to be tted to the supplied mains
lead. As the colours of the wires in the mains lead may not correspond with the
coloured markings identifying the terminals in the plug proceed as follows:
The wire coloured GREEN-AND-YELLOW must be connected to the terminal
in the plug marked by the letter Eor by the safety earth symbol or coloured
GREEN or GREEN and YELLOW.
The wire coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal in the plug
marked with the letter Nor coloured BLACK.
The wire coloured BROWN must be connected to the terminal in the plug
marked with the letter Lor coloured RED.
Note: Full safety warnings can
be found in the Statutory Safety
Manual.
2.2 Equipment Fuses
Mains powered Naim Audio equipment is tted with a mains fuse on the rear
panel adjacent to the mains input socket. Replace it if necessary only with
the spare fuse supplied or with an identical fuse. Repeated failure of the fuse
points to a fault that should be investigated by your retailer or Naim itself.
2.3 Non-rewirable Mains Plugs
If a non-rewirable plug is cut from a mains lead (for whatever purpose) the
plug MUST be disposed of in a way to render it totally useless. Considerable
shock hazard exists if the cut-o plug is inserted into a mains outlet.
2.4 Mains Circuits and Cables
A hi- system usually shares a mains circuit with other household equipment
some of which can cause distortion of the mains waveform. This distortion
can in turn lead to mechanical hum from mains transformers. Some Naim
transformers are large in size, making them relatively sensitive to such
distortion, and it may be necessary to take account of transformer hum when
siting your equipment.
Transformer hum is not transmitted through the speakers and has no eect on
the performance of the system; however, a separate mains circuit may reduce
it. Such a circuit (ideally with a 30 or 45 Amp rating) will also generally
improve system performance. Advice on the installation of a separate mains
circuit should be sought from a qualied electrician.
3. General Installation
Naim equipment is designed to oer the nest performance possible avoiding
compromise wherever practical. This can lead to circumstances that may be
unfamiliar. The notes that follow contain advice specically related to Naim
equipment as well as more general warnings about the use of domestic audio
products. Please read them carefully.
3.1 Siting The Equipment
In order to reduce the risk of hum audible from the loudspeakers, power
supplies and power ampliers should be located a reasonable distance away
from other equipment. The maximum separation distance for connected
equipment is that allowed by the standard interconnect lead.
Some Naim equipment is extremely heavy. Check the weight of the
equipment prior to lifting and if necessary use more than one person so that
it can be moved safely. Ensure that your equipment rack or table can easily
support the weight and is stable.

3 4
3.2 Switching On
Source components and power supplies should be switched on before the
power ampliers. Always switch ampliers o and wait a minute before
connecting or disconnecting any leads. Always use the power switch on the
product rather than a mains outlet switch.
A “thump” may be heard from the loudspeakers as power ampliers are
switched on. This is normal, will not cause any loudspeaker damage and does
not point to any fault or problem. A mild “pop” may also be heard shortly after
equipment is switched o.
3.3 Running In
Naim equipment takes a considerable time to run in before it performs at its
best. The duration varies, but under some conditions the sound may continue
to improve for over a month. Better and more consistent performance will
be achieved if the system is left switched on for long periods. It is worth
remembering however that equipment left connected to the mains can be
damaged by lightning.
3.4 Radio Interference
In some circumstances, depending on where you live and the earthing
arrangements in your home, you may experience radio frequency
interference. Controls on broadcasting in some territories allow very high
levels of radio frequency radiation and both the choice and exact siting of
equipment may be critical. Susceptibility to radio frequency interference is
related to the wide internal bandwidth necessary for high sound quality.
A radio frequency lter kit is available for some Naim equipment but sound
quality will be progressively compromised as more elements of the kit are
tted.
3.5 Lightning Precautions
Your Naim hi- system can be damaged by lightning and should be turned
o and disconnected from the mains when there is risk of lightning strike.
For complete protection all mains plugs and any aerial cables should be
disconnected when not in use.
3.6 Problems?
Consumer protection varies from country to country. In most territories a
retailer must be prepared to take back any equipment he has sold if it cannot
be made to work satisfactorily. A problem may be due to a fault in the system
or its installation so it is essential to make full use of your dealer’s diagnostic
skills. Please contact your local distributor, or Naim Audio directly, if any
diculties cannot be resolved.
Some Naim equipment is made in special versions for dierent territories
and this makes it impracticable to arrange international guarantees. Please
establish the local guarantee arrangements with your retailer.
Contact Naim Audio directly for help and advice if necessary.
3.7 Service and Updates
It is essential that repairs and updates are only carried out by an authorised
Naim retailer or at the factory by Naim itself. Many components are
custom made, tested or matched and appropriate replacements are often
unobtainable from other sources.
Direct contact to Naim for service or update information should be made
initially through Customer Services:
Tel: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Please quote the product serial number (found on its rear panel) in all
correspondence.
4. Solstice Special Edition System Components
Solstice Special Edition is the rst ever all Naim vinyl replay system.
The Solstice turntable itself features an all new version of our legendary
ARO tonearm paired with our Equinox MC cartridge. Included in the system
is the Solstice series phono stage and power supply to provide a complete,
exceptionally high performance vinyl replay system. Solstice Special Edition
has been designed for best performance when connected via DIN to Naim
amplication, but can be used with any amplier with a standard RCA line
level input.
Solstice Special Edition is a complete vinyl replay system comprising of all the
components needed for connection to an amplier. Diagrams illustrating the
connection of Solstice Special Edition are shown in Section 7.
Your Solstice Special Edition vinyl replay system should be installed on a
dedicated equipment stand intended for the purpose. Do not stand it directly
on top of another item of equipment. Care should be taken to ensure that all
elements of the turntable itself – plinth, platter and arm are level.
The turntable, phono stage and power supply should be installed in its nal
location before connecting cables or switching on. Ensure that the volume on
the connected amplier is turned down before switching on.

5 6
4.1 Solstice Turntable NVS TT - Features and Connections
Adjustable feet
Cartridge azimuth
adjuster
Magnetic anti-skate
control
ARO Tonearm
counterweight
VTA Control
Optional additional
ground connection
Logo brightness
setting
Standby power
setting
Type 2 Power Supply input
(connects to NPX TT)

7 8
4.2 Solstice Series Power Supply NPX TT
Features and Connections
USB
update
Brightness
/ Reset
WARNING: Disconnect
power before opening
FUSE RATING: ANTISURGE
11 20-120 V: T AL
220-240 V: T AL1
AC ONLY �
FREQUENCY: 0/60Hz5
I 60NPUT POWER: VA
Power
Power Supply Outputs
DESIGNED AND MADE IN
THE UK BY NAIM AUDIO,
SALISBURY, SP1 2LN
SOLSTICE
SERIES
POWER SUPPLY
NPX TT
S/No.
Type 2
Type 1
Refer to User Manual
Mains input
connection
Brightness toggle
and reset switch
Type 1 Power supply output
(for connection to Solstice
Series Phono Stage NVC TT)
Type 2 Power supply
output (for connection to
Solstice Turntable NVS TT)
4.3 Solstice Series Phono Stage NVC TT
Features and Connections
MC Cartridge
input
Switch to select
either MM or MC
cartridge input
MM Cartridge
input
Ground connection for
ARO tonearm interconnect
MC Cartridge
gain settings
RCA Audio output
(for connection to
amplifier)
Type 1 Power supply
input (from NPX TT)
5 pin DIN Audio output
(recommended for connection
to Naim amplifier)
Logo brightness
setting
Standby power
setting
4.4 Mains Connection
Connect the Solstice series Power Supply NPX TT to a mains power socket
using either the mains cable supplied or a Naim Power-Line.
4.5 Standby Power Settings
Both the NVS TT and NPX TT are set by default to power down into a sleep
mode after 20 minutes. In this sleep mode the vinyl replay system consumes
less than 0.5W of power. The ‘Instant On’ feature sets your vinyl replay system
to a mode that leaves the sensitive audio circuitry permanently powered for
the best sound quality. In the Solstice Special Edition vinyl replay system, set
the standby power setting switches to ‘Instant On’ on the NVS TT turnable
to enable this feature. The standby power setting on the NVC TT phono
stage is only applicable when the turntable and phono stage are powered by
independent power supplies.
4.6 Brightness Settings
The brightness of the product logos on the Solstice Special Edition vinyl replay
system can be adjusted per device using the switches on both NVS TT and
NVC TT and the push button on the NPX TT.
4.7 Signal Outputs
The Solstice Turntable arm interconnect cable is specic to the ARO tonearm
and features a unique 5 pin decoupled connection to reduce microphonic
eects. The Solstice Series Phono Stage features audio outputs on 5 pin DIN,
8 pin DIN and RCA outputs, making it easy to connect to a variety of Naim and
other manufacturers’ equipment. Always use high quality interconnect cables
to connect the phono stage to the amplier inputs. The Naim Super Lumina will
produce the best results. If connecting to a Naim amplier, a DIN connection is
recommended to give the best results.
Note: Solstice Special Edition features both
DIN and RCA outputs for connection to an
external amplier. Naim recommend DIN
connections.

910
After unpacking you should have the following items:
5.2 Solstice Turntable
Chassis NVS TT
ARO Tonearm, tted with Equinox MC
cartridge and nger lift
Sub Platter
Platter
Counterweight
Bearing Housing Drive Belt
Bearing Oil
4.8 Cartridge Selection
The Solstice Series Phono Stage NVC TT features adjustable settings to enable
the best performance of a connected cartridge. It is possible to adjust both
gain, capacitive and resistive load for Moving Coil cartridges. The adjustment
switches do not apply for MM (Moving Magnet) cartridges as they typically
have a much higher output.
The NVC TT is preset with suggested settings for the Equinox moving coil
cartridge, we recommend 100 ohms for resistance and 1000pF for capacitance
with ‘high’ gain setting however gain, load, and impedance can be adjusted to
suit individual preferences or improve system matching. For instance, adding
more capacitance may reduce any perceived system forwardness. Adding more
resistance can help counteract any perceived excessive liveliness. Switching
between high and low gain may help match input levels across a system. In this
way the Solstice Special Edition vinyl replay system can be set up to perform to
its best in your system and listening environment. For other cartridges, check
with the cartridge manufacturer for the values required.
4.9 System Components
Solstice Special Edition has been considered and designed as a fully featured
system, comprising all the components required for vinyl replay. However, it is
possible to use alternative cartridges and phono stages if desired, such as the
Naim SuperLine. The Solstice Turntable NVS TT is only designed for use with
the Solstice Series NPX TT power supply. The Solstice Series Phono Stage
NVC TT is not required for correct operation.
5. Solstice Special Edition Box Contents
5.1 Unpacking the turntable
The Solstice Special Edition turntable is supplied in 4 boxes.
The large main box houses the turntable only. The smaller boxes contain the
power supply, phono stage and limited edition accessories. Unpack all the
items before starting, as the cables needed are supplied with the relevant
electronics.
Interconnect – tonearm
to phono stage
Felt Mat
Ground Cable

11 12
6. Solstice Special Edition Assembly and Set Up
6.1 Chassis installation
Remove the turntable parts completely from the box. All tools required for the
build can be found in the accessories box.
Site the turntable plinth on a suitable level surface. Naim recommends the
Fraim equipment support for best performance.
Using the large bubble level, adjust the three feet on the turntable to ensure the
chassis is perfectly level. Place the level near the arm housing for best results.
5.3 Solstice Series Phono Stage
Phono stage NVC TT
5.4 Solstice Series Power Supply
Power Supply NPX TT
5.5 Solstice Special Edition Accessory Pack
Dust Protector
MeasuringMeasuring
areaarea
0.0.0101gg
Digital Stylus Gauge
Small and Large
Bubble Levels
1.5mm, 2mm, 2.5mm
Hex Drivers
Vinyl Adjustment Tool
5 pin DIN to 5 Pin DIN
Audio Interconnect
Type 1 Power Supply
Cable
Type 2 Power Supply Cable
Cleaning Cloth

13 14
Ensure both turntable chassis and equipment support are both level
and secure.
6.2 Arm installation
Bring the 5 pin end of the toneram interconnect up through the arm housing.
Connect the tonearm interconnect to the connector on the bottom of
the tonearm. Note the connector is loose – this is intentional to reduce
microphonic eects.
Add a few drops of bearing oil to the ceramic collar.
Gently tighten up the three screws using the 1.5mm hex driver just enough to
stop the arm pillar rotating in the pedestal top plate in use.
6.3 Platter installation
Take the sub platter and bearing housing and push together.
Place the tonearm in the collar and line up the arrows on the tape.

15 16
Slide the bearing housing and sub platter over the bearing. Note the sub
platter oats due to the magnetic force required to oppose the weight of
the platter.
Slide the belt over the sub platter edge and around the motor. Note the belt
will not sit ush on the edge of the sub platter at this stage. Take care not to
dislodge the belt during tting of the platter.
Finally slide the platter on to the sub platter, taking care not to dislodge the
belt. Gently run the platter around a few times to seat the belt. Do not t the
felt mat at this stage.
6.4 Verify level once platter is tted
Using the large bubble level placed near the centre of the platter, re-adjust the
three feet on the turntable to ensure the platter is perfectly level if required.
6.5 Tracking force setup
Slide the counterweight on to the end of the ARO tonearm.
Place the digital stylus gauge on the aluminium platter, removing the felt mat if
it has already been tted.
Turn the digital stylus gauge on.
The display should read in grams (g). If not, tap the unit button on the screen
until the display shows (g).
Remove the stylus guard.
Raise the tonearm using the lift lever on the side.
Align the stylus gauge measuring area (the red dot) with the arm so the stylus
will drop on to the centre of the measuring area.

17 18
Using the lift lever, lower the arm so the stylus contacts the measuring area.
Read the measured force. Note the value. If adjustment of the tracking force is
required please lift the arm using the lever before making any counterweight
adjustments and then reset the stylus back onto the digital stylus gauge.
When playing a record, use the VTA adjustment and the mini level to ensure
the arm is perfectly at whilst playing. VTA adjustment can be performed
whilst listening to a record, allowing adjustment for various weights of record
pressing.
There are great benets in optimising the playing weight of the cartridge by
listening. Small changes in playing weight can make a big dierence. Naim
suggest a playing weight between 2.2g and 2.4g as the optimal range. Always
check with the stylus gauge that the playing weight is within the
suggested range after listening optimisation.
EQUINOX
6.6 ARO tonearm alignment
Alignment of the ARO tonearm is performed using the small bubble level to
ensure the arm is perfectly at whilst playing.
Adjust the Vertical Tracking Angle (VTA) by rotating the VTA adjuster
horizontally to raise, or lower the arm whilst the arm is in the rest.
VTA can be adjusted for personal preference according to record pressing in
this manner using the micro spirit level.
Adjust the cartridge azimuth by rotating the cartridge adjuster. Allow the arm
to settle after adjustment. Make small adjustments to both azimuth and VTA in
the rest as required, until the small bubble level indicates the arm remains level
in all directions whilst playing.
Notes on dissembling NVS TT:
If removing the platter, the sub platter and bearing housing will be pushed up by the
magnetic force. When removing the platter, reach underneath the platter and hold the
sub platter down to avoid the risk of any damage to the sub platter or chassis.

19 20
7. System Connections
The diagram below illustrates how to wire up the Solstice Special Edition
vinyl replay system.
DESIGNED IN THE UK
BY NAIM AUDIO,
SALISBURY, SP1 2LN. MADE IN GERMANY
NVS TT
SOLSTICE SERIES
TURNTABLE
GND
High
Med
Low
Logo
Power Supply InputControl
Ground
Auto
standby
Instant
on
Type 2 or 3
Refer to User Manual
Connect power
cable
5 pin DIN connection
to Naim amplifier
USB
update
Brightness
/ Reset
WARNING: Disconnect
power before opening
FUSE RATING: ANTISURGE
11 20-120 V: T AL
220-240 V: T AL1
AC ONLY �
FREQUENCY: 0/60Hz5
I 60NPUT POWER: VA
Power
Power Supply Outputs
DESIGNED AND MADE IN
THE UK BY NAIM AUDIO,
SALISBURY, SP1 2LN
SOLSTICE
SERIES
POWER SUPPLY
NPX TT
S/No.
Type 2
Type 1
Refer to User Manual
Type 2 power
supply cable
Type 1 power
supply cable
ARO Tonearm
interconnect
Ground cable
Ground connector

21 22
8. Specications
Parameter Solstice Turntable
High performance turntable with carbon ARO unipivot tonearm
Model Code NVS TT
Power Supply input
connector Type 2
Speeds 33 1/3 rpm, 45rpm
Motor Type High torque 24V DC brushless
Motor Control Optical feedback
Tonearm Audio Output 5 pin Mini DIN
Front Panel Clear Acrylic
Naim Logo White illuminated
Logo Brightness setting 3 position switch - High, Medium. Low
Dimensions (H x W x D) 182mm x 420mm x 358mm
Weight 25.4kg
Parameter Solstice Series Power Supply
DR regulated linear power supply
Model Code NPX TT
Standby Power
Consumption <0.5W
Other Connectors Mini USB (update only)
Front Panel Clear Acrylic
Naim Logo White illuminated
Logo Brightness setting Button - High, Medium. Low
Mains Supply 110 to 120V and 220 to 240Vac
Dimensions (H x W x D) 70mm x 214mm x 330mm
Weight 5.6kg
Parameter Equinox MC Cartridge
Moving Coil cartridge
Model Code EQUINOX
Audio output Individual 4 pin
Frequency Response 20Hz - 40kHz
Output voltage 0.4mV
Cartridge impedance 11 Ω
Recommended tracking
force 2.2g - 2.4g
Recommended MC
input resistance value 100Ω
Recommended MC
input capacitance 1000pF (= 1nF)
Recommended MC
Gain setting High
Weight 8.0g
Parameter Solstice Series Phono Stage
Switchable MM/MC phono stage with MC load adjustment
MM MC (low & high gain)
Model Code NVC TT
Gain 42dB 61dB low gain and 67dB high gain
(switchable)
Signal to noise ratio 83dB ref 5mV A-wtd 84dB ref 0.5mV A-wtd (both gain
settings)
RIAA accuracy +/-0.1dB
IEC cut (Partial) – 2dB at 20Hz and -3dB at 14Hz
Cross talk >75dB
Max output signal 8Vrms
THD+N <0.005% ref 50mV input <0.005% ref 1.5mV input
Loading 47kΩ and 100pF
1000Ω, 600Ω, 430Ω, 330Ω, 250Ω,
215Ω, 185Ω,165Ω,150Ω, 140Ω, 125Ω,
115Ω, 105Ω, 100Ω, 90Ω, 85Ω
100pF, 400pF, 700pF, 1000pF,
1300pF, 1600pF, 1900pF, 2200pF,
2500pF, 2700pF, 3100pF, 3400pF,
3700pF, 4000pF, 4300pF, 4600pF
Headroom 22dB ref 5mV input
23dB ref 0.5mV input low gain
setting, 17dB ref 0.5mV high gain
setting
Power Supply input
connector Type 1
Audio input Stereo RCA Stereo RCA
Audio output Stereo RCA, 5 pin DIN, 8 pin DIN
Front Panel Clear Acrylic
Naim Logo White illuminated
Logo Brightness setting 3 position switch - High, Medium. Low
Power input +/-18V DC @300mA
Dimensions (H x W x D) 70mm x 214mm x 329mm
Weight 3.4kg

23 24
9. Digital Stylus Gauge
Before using the Digital Stylus gauge for the rst time, remove the
battery seal from the battery compartment on the back of the device.
9.1 Unit Selection
To adjust the tracking force we recommend using the default setting: ‘g’.
If you want to use another unit of measurement, tap the [MODE] button to
cycle through the options.
The measuring area of the Digital Stylus Gauge (marked ‘Measuring
area’) is at the same height as a 200g vinyl pressing, so for the most accurate
measurement, the felt mat should be removed and a standard pressing vinyl
used to add additional height.
Now you can switch on the Digital Stylus Gauge by tapping on the [ON / OFF]
area. After switching it on, all the elements of the display are displayed for
approximately 3 seconds before returning to ‘0.0’.
Place the tonearm with the cartridge on the red-marked measuring area, then
slowly lower the tonearm so that the stylus is centred on the red dot.
To avoid false measurements, the body of the cartridge should never contact
the Digital Stylus Gauge. The display now shows you the weight in grams.
For the Equinox cartridge, this should be between 2.2g and 2.4g depending on
listener preference. Lift the tonearm and correct the tracking force.
Check your nal adjustments of the tracking force again with the Digital Stylus
Gauge.
Note that horizontal placement of your Digital Stylus Gauge is required for
accurate measurement of tracking force. Do not touch the surface (calibration
area, showing the Solstice logo) during the measurement process to ensure an
accurate measurement.
Measuring
area
0.01g
9.2 Changing the batteries
If the Digital Stylus Gauge cannot be switched on, the batteries should be
replaced. To change the batteries, open the battery compartment by pressing
the lock and remove the cover. Make sure the polarity is correct when inserting
the batteries. Replace the cover and be careful not to apply any pressure to the
calibration or measurement surfaces.
9.3 Calibration
If the measurements shown seem inconsistent then the supplied calibration
weight can be used to recalibrate the Digital Stylus Gauge.
1. Place the Digital Stylus Gauge on a at, stable surface.
2. Hold down the [MODE] button for approximately 3 seconds: the display will
show ‘CAL’ and then the required calibration weight.
3. Place the 100g weight from the accessories box on the centre of the
calibration area (where the naim logo is shown) and wait 3 seconds.
4. Press [ON / OFF]. The calibration is completed.
9.4 Additional functions
Auto-O
If the device is not used for more than 3 minutes, it automatically switches o
to save the battery.
Overload indicator
If the capacity is exceeded, the display shows ‘O-LD’. Immediately remove the
load and check the functionality of the Digital Stylus Gauge with the enclosed
calibration weight. Please be aware that weights in excess of the measuring
range can permanently damage the Digital Stylus Gauge and invalidate the
warranty.
9.5 Technical data
Measuring accuracy: +/- 0.01g
Measuring range: 0 - 100g
Units: g, oz, ct, gn
Power source: 2x CR2032 Batteries
Auto-O: after 3 minutes
Weight: approx. 64g
Dimensions (HxWxD): 13.5mm x 89mm x 75.5mm
Warranty: 2 years (except batteries)

25 26
11. Product Recycling
Products that display the crossed-out wheeled bin logo cannot be
disposed of as domestic waste. These products must be disposed of
at facilities capable of re-cycling them and appropriately handling any
waste by-products.
Contact your local authority for details of the nearest such facility.
Appropriate recycling and waste disposal helps conserve resources and
protects the environment from contamination.
10. Power Supply Connection Details
10.1 Type 1: 8 pin DIN
+18V 300mA
10.2 Type 2: 12 way connector
Note: Power Supplies with
Type 3 outputs can be
connected to Type 2 inputs
-18V 300mA
+5V 200mA
+22V 300mA
Ground
Ground
Ground digital

Naim Audio Ltd. Southampton Road, Salisbury, England SP1 2LN
Call. [phone] Email. [e-mail]
naimaudio.com

Designed in the UK
by Naim Audio