All digital streams are resampled to 24/88.2, then passed on to the new Mu-so’s digital processing engine. Like all of Naim’s latest streaming products, the Mu-so 2nd Generation can play files of resolutions up to 32/384 PCM, as well as DSD64 and 128, via Ethernet, USB, and Wi-Fi. The original Mu-so could play digital files of resolutions up to 24-bit/192kHz PCM via a wired connection or from an attached USB drive, and up to 24/48 via Wi-Fi. The new midrange driver has a redesigned surround incorporating mass damping, and a smaller dustcap, which Naim says improves midrange clarity. The new woofers have bigger magnets and longer voice coils, to produce higher maximum SPLs with less distortion, Naim says. The drivers have been completely redesigned, in conjunction with Naim’s sister company Focal. Like the original Mu-so, the 2nd Generation has for each channel a dome tweeter, a midrange driver, and an oval woofer, each with its own 75W class-D amplifier, for a total of 450W. The baffle now incorporates honeycomb bracing made from a polymer similar to the material used in riot shields, to better suppress cabinet resonances. Changes to the enclosure’s design have increased its internal volume by 13%, which Naim says results in “a significant improvement” in bass performance. Measuring 24.7”W x 4.8”H x 10.4”D, the Mu-so 2nd Generation has almost the same outer dimensions as the original, but at 24.7 pounds is four pounds lighter. Which brings us to the new model’s sonic enhancements. Like the original Mu-so, the 2nd’s controller channels This Is Spinal Tap in having 11 illuminated segments that indicate volume level - yes, you can turn the Mu-so 2nd Generation up to 11. The controller on the 2nd Generation also lets you pair with a Bluetooth device, create a multi-room music system with other Naim components, play music from an attached USB drive, and resume playback from a Spotify queue. With the new Mu-so, you can use this function for Spotify presets as well as favorite Internet stations. On the original, you could select from among five preset Internet Radio stations, which you program with the Naim app. As with the original Mu-so, you can use the 2nd Generation’s controller to adjust the volume, pause and resume playback, skip to the next or previous track, and select among hardwired sources. With its luxurious feel, the controller just begs you to give it a spin. Like its predecessor, the new Mu-so has a weighted rotary controller on its top panel, to the left, with a proximity sensor that wakes the controller when you wave your hand above it. On the front is a black cloth grille - accessory grilles in Olive, Terracotta, and Peacock are available for $85 each. I found the new model’s dark-gray finish more elegant than the original’s silver. Both have beautiful anodized-aluminum enclosures supported by illuminated mirrored bases, with bead-blasted, anodized-aluminum heatsinks along the rear. The new Mu-so looks almost identical to its predecessor. Naim says they began developing the new model two years ago, and describes it as “95% re-engineered” over the original. The Mu-so 2nd Generation was formally announced in early May, at High End, in Munich. The subject of this review, the Mu-so 2nd Generation ($1599), is better in every respect. And, of course, there are lots of non-audiophiles who nonetheless want an elegant, easy-to-use system that delivers great sound. An all-in-one music system is ideal for settings where music is a secondary activity - a bedroom, den, kitchen, or home office, or when you’re entertaining or reading - and with the Mu-so, you definitely don’t settle sonically. Turns out there are many reasons that people who are serious about sound would covet such a product. As an objet, it’s drop-dead gorgeous, and it sounds fantastic. In retrospect, the Mu-so’s success is no surprise. Reviewed by Al Griffin on Simplifi in January 2017, the Mu-so Qb was a SoundStage! Network Product of the Year. So has their smaller Mu-so Qb (pronounced cube), launched a year later. Their Mu-so wireless music player, introduced in late 2014, has been a huge hit. It’s a good thing Naim Audio didn’t listen to people like me. But for serious listening, I want the immersive experience you get from a stereo pair of speakers spaced several feet apart. I had nothing against all-in-one music systems - not then, not now. Five years ago, if someone had asked me if there was a market for a tabletop all-in-one music system that cost $1499 (all prices USD), I’d have replied, “You’re kidding, right?” For that kind of dough, you could get a nice integrated amp and speakers, or a really good set of powered speakers.
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