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

They can try to rationalize it however they want, but it’s just unnecessary and stupid.  If I was obsessed with PRaT maybe I might consider putting up with their backwards/different connections, but there are too many other excellent/better amps out there without having to deal with NAIM’s silliness/eccentricities. 

My search could not find any information about other audio amplifiers, besides Naim, that reverse their speaker wire connections. Naim is known for having a unique configuration where the right and left channels appear reversed when viewed from the front of the amplifier, although they are correct when viewed from the rear.

This setup is similar to stage equipment configurations.

 

 

There is a simple solution, isn't there? Just reverse both the speaker cables and the channel designation of all your inputs.

 

I find this speaker wire connection weird.  I wonder how many people that own this amp never read the manual, or the labels written on the back of the amp, and have their speaker wires in the wrong position.   

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