Naim’s Mu-so 2nd Generation remains one of the most complete single-box music systems on the market, and it is worth revisiting: re-engineered in Salisbury, England as the successor to the original, award-winning Mu-so, it pairs Naim’s streaming expertise with drivers optimised in collaboration with Focal. Years after launch, the Naim Mu-so 2nd Generation still holds up as a genuine all-in-one alternative to a stack of separates.
450 watts and a Focal-optimised driver array
At the core of the system sits 450 watts of music power spread across six amplified channels, driving a set of Focal-co-developed drivers inside a cabinet that Naim increased in internal volume by 13% over the original Mu-so, aimed at deeper, more controlled bass. A multicore DSP rated at 2000 MIPS, roughly 13 times the processing power of the original single-core unit, handles the heavy lifting, while a limiter algorithm steps in only at extreme volume levels to protect the drivers and preserve clarity over the long term.
Naim’s streaming platform in a single box
The Mu-so 2nd Generation runs Naim’s acclaimed music-streaming platform, the same technology found in the brand’s Uniti range and dedicated network players, supporting up to 24-bit high-resolution playback from a local library, internet radio or services such as TIDAL and Spotify. AirPlay 2, Roon Ready certification and HDMI ARC round out the connectivity, letting the Mu-so double as a serious soundbar alternative for a television as well as a standalone music system; Ethernet remains available for listeners who want the most stable network connection.
A design built to blend in or stand out
The aluminium casing comes in a stylish grey finish, with a new, more intuitive interface built around 15 touch-sensitive buttons and an illuminated volume dial with a proximity sensor that wakes the display as a hand approaches. The front grille is interchangeable, with black, terracotta, olive and peacock blue options letting owners match the Mu-so to a room rather than the other way round.
Pricing and availability
The Naim Mu-so 2nd Generation launched at £1,299/$1,599 and remains available through Naim’s dealer network; current street pricing varies by region and retailer.
Key specifications
- 450 watts music power across 6 amplified channels
- Focal-optimised driver array
- Multicore DSP, 2000 MIPS
- Naim streaming platform: local library, internet radio, TIDAL, Spotify
- AirPlay 2, Roon Ready, HDMI ARC, Ethernet
- Interchangeable grille: black, terracotta, olive, peacock blue
- Illuminated volume dial with proximity sensor
- Launch price: £1,299 / $1,599
For more from the brand, see our report on the Naim Mu-so special edition. Full specifications are available via Naim Audio.
