NAIM FRAIM Brochure - page 2
Fraim
Reference Equipment Support System
Naim’s development of the Fraim marked the first time the full engineering resources of a high-end audio manufacturer
had been deployed in the design of an equipment stand. And the Fraim’s performance demonstrates perfectly that
Naim knows best how to support its own electronics. The Fraim brings more detail, pace and focus to music, working in
harmony with the Naim philosophy that makes the fundamentals of music – pitch, timing and dynamics – the priorities.
A Fraim module comprises two fundamental elements: the base level and multiple shelving levels. The base
level provides a stable and non-resonant three-point foundation that decouples the shelving levels above through
two sets of three minimal contact interfaces. Each shelving level then, as well as incorporating a primary set of
three cone and cup interfaces, incorporates a glass sub-shelf supported by a further set of three cup and ball
bearing interfaces. The Fraim principle is that successive minimal contact interfaces progressively decouple the
transmission of mechanical energy. This includes the micro-vibrations created when products are immersed in a
sound field and those generated by all products while operating, including power supplies. At the same time the
interfaces provide a fixed reference plane on which the internal isolation systems of each item of electronics can
perform optimally. Additionally, the shelf height options are configured to ensure that magnetic field interaction
between electronic products is minimised.
Fraim material selection is as significant as the arrangement of its components. Super hard stainless steel,
toughened glass selected following intensive listening tests, large section anodised aluminium extrusion and
veneered wood composites all contribute to equipment support that both performs to perfection and perfectly
complements the Naim aesthetic.
FraimLite
Entry-level Equipment Support System
FraimLite takes the core Fraim concepts and components and strips them back to the fundamentals to create
entry-level engineered support for less ambitious Naim systems or lower budgets. Stripping back to the
fundamentals however implies no lack of performance or aesthetic quality. The philosophy of the entire
Fraim concept is based on engineering integrity, and that philosophy is fully expressed in FraimLite.
Rather than two-stage base level isolation, FraimLite incorporates just a single set of three cone and cup minimal
contact interfaces. Each FraimLite shelving level then forgoes the Fraim’s glass sub-shelf to support equipment
directly on veneered composite panels.
A FraimLite module comprises a single element base level with multiple shelving levels above. The base level and
each shelving level incorporate a single set of cone and cup interfaces. As with the reference-level Fraim, FraimLite
support enables Naim electronics to perform by providing the ideal motionless environment. Even modest Naim
electronics will benefit, with greater detail resolution, more accurate dynamics, and simply more music.
The Options
Fraim and FraimLite shelving level uprights are available in either black or natural anodised finish. Three different
lengths – standard, medium and tall – are available to accommodate the different heights of i and XS Series,
Uniti and Classic Series, and 500 Series Naim electronics.
With standard and medium length uprights, a single Fraim or FraimLite module can incorporate up to six
shelving levels. With tall length uprights, a single Fraim or FraimLite module can incorporate a maximum
of two levels. Different length shelving level uprights may be combined in single Fraim or FraimLite modules.
Floor protection chips are available for those situations where floor spikes are unsuitable, and for the Fraim,
an optional safety kit can provide enhanced glass shelf security and complete peace of mind.
Fraim and FraimLite shelving panels are available in ash, cherry and black ash real wood veneers. The panels are
manufactured in the same facility as the Ovator loudspeaker enclosures, so on matching veneers, consistency
of figuring and tone is assured.
Ball Bearing
Supports Fraim glass sub-shelves.
Chrome-plated hardened steel.
Fraim only.
Floor Spike
Defines the Fraim to floor
interface. Custom-manufactured
in hardened stainless steel.
Cup
Minimal contact interface
component. Custom-manufactured
in hardened stainless steel.
Shelf Upright
Custom extruded in anodised
aluminium.
Socket
Constrains the glass sub-shelf
support ball. Custom-manufactured
in hardened stainless steel. Fraim only.
Pin
Constrains glass sub-shelf location.
Custom-manufactured in hardened
stainless steel. Fraim only.
Clamping Ring
Constrains and spaces
upright to shelf interface.
Custom-manufactured in
hardened stainless steel.
Shelf
19mm double veneered
composite board. Cut shape
informed by listening tests.
Nut
Secures Fraim and FraimLite
assembly. Zinc-plated steel.
Stud
Ties shelf elements together.
Zinc-plated steel.
Cone
Minimal contact interface
component. Custom-manufactured
in hardened stainless steel.
Glass
10mm toughened glass.
Specific supply source selected
from listening tests. Fraim only.
The Details
The Fraim and FraimLite range is unique in offering a modular system that can expand to accommodate
new components as a hi-fi system grows. The common components of Fraim and FraimLite mean that a
FraimLite system can be easily and gradually upgraded to Fraim status on a level-by-level basis and that levels
of either type can be combined in one system. A system consisting predominantly of FraimLite could then
incorporate reference-level Fraim shelving levels for critical source components.
Upgrade Path
Upgrade Path