The year 2023 sees the fiftieth anniversary of the Naim Classic range of audio separates. The Classic series has always been the music system of your dreams now it is joined by the NSC 222 preamplifier and streamer. There is also an upgrade to the NAP 250 power amplifier and a new external power supply for the preamp. The power supply can be used instead of the built in power supply of the NSC 222, for an even lower noise floor.
The Classic range is still designed and developed in Cambridge. This UK company embodies fifty years of knowledge and experience in audio components. They are at the cutting edge of innovation with the NSC 222 preamp and streamer.
The NSC 222 streaming Pre-amp
This hi-end streaming preamplifier is very versatile, and can handle anything from Spotify to vinyl. The NSC 222 has multiple functions and brooks no compromise when it comes to sound quality. The British design, by Naim, features high-precision engineering as well as exemplary build quality. Streamed music and radio are no problem. moreover, vinyl is not for gotten with a quality MM phono stage. Finally there is also a headphone amp built in. Just add the NAP power amplifier and speakers for a full system.
The Naim streaming platform
The easy to use Naim streaming platform sets new standards. It is fully featured and can handle bitrates of up to 32bit/284kHz. Moreover, it is dedicated to producing true hi-fi performance. It can play anything you throw at it including Spotify Connect, Apple Music, TIDAL, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, UPnP™ servers, USB key, Roon Ready, and more.
There is an app for the NSC 222 that can be used on Apple and Android devices. The app makes it easy to access your favourite music. radio stations, streaming services and playlists. The app will also link to other music systems. Artists discographies and biographies can also be viewed.
Additionally, there are many ways to control the NSC 222. The app has been mentioned but there is also the Zigbee smart remote control. Finally, the unit itself has a 5.5″ colour screen that always tells you the track being played as well as a plethora of other information.
Naim build quality
Naim’s engineers have designed simple but effective circuits. Most notable is the DR power supply. The Direct regulator power supply has a fast response to current demand as well as low noise. This gives superior performance. Moreover, the best quality components are used and very precise measurements are used for the best possible result.
Good connectivity
Good connectivity makes the NSC 222 very versatile. Digital inputs include 2 x optical inputs as well as an RCA and BNC input. There are also two USB inputs, including one on the front. Analogue inputs are not forgotten. There is an RCA input for a MM phono cartridge. Additionally there is an 8 pin DIN socket that can also take 5 pin DIN plugs. Outputs include balanced XLR as well as RCA connectors, and a headphone output. Finally there are sockets for the NAP 250 external power supply.
Thick aluminum enclosures
Naim have always been a proponent of using thick aluminum plates in enclosure design. Sensitive electronic components benefit from being well shielded. A strong and rigid mounting also reduces vibration and resists temperature changes. The units have no decoration that does not contribute to the sound.
The NAP 250 power amplifier
The Naim NAP 250 power amplifier is legendary among audiophiles. It has undergone constant improvement since it’s inception in 1975. Now, this sixth generation model has more power and unrivalled performance. The design uses the most modern technology for outstanding sound. The NAP 250 delivers 100W per channel and is class A/ B.
The NAP 250 has a cutting edge design that can be used at high sound levels without distortion. The heat sink is reactive enough to keep the unit cool. Other improvements include the addition of symmetrical XLR connections as well as power supply innovations. Such as the Discrete regulator technology found in the NSC 222. The NAP 250 is the perfect partner for the NSC 222 preamp.
NPX 300 power supply upgrade
The NPX 300 power supply provides the ultimate upgrade for the NSC preamp and streamer. The internal power supply shuts down when the NPX 300 is connected. This reduces noise as well as giving a cleaner better regulated power source.
Having an external power supply lets the preamplifier do its job with no local source of interference. The NPX 300 can also be used with other Naim components. You can also use two of them to power the digital and analogue sections separately.
Finally, the NPX 300 incorporates a large toroidal transformer. These are more efficient and smaller than traditional transformers. High grade capacitors are used. Moreover, individual Discrete regulator modules generate less noise and improve performance.
About Naim
Naim was founded by Julian Vereker MBE (1945-2000) . He was a racing driver as well as a self taught engineer. During the 1960’s he recorded his friends playing live. Here he discovered that home audio was woefully short of the quality he craved. Therefore he decided to design his own amplifiers and loudspeakers. Notably, he focused on performance and sound quality. Rather than contemporary practices.
In the early 1970’s local radio was starting up. Julian saw an opportunity and won the contract to supply Capital radio. That was with the NAM 502. an amplifier speaker combination.
After the Capital radio success, 1973 saw Naim founded and a shop procured. The shop had manufacturing, as well as demonstration facilities and was in Salisbury. Salisbury is still the headquarters of Naim. The first consumer product was the NAP 200 power amplifier. This was the ancestor of all the modern amps. The original had all the pace rhythm and timing of the present range.
Naim first got into digital in 1991. That was with the CDS CD player. Notably, the CDS was an unusual two box design. The power supply was separate. A tradition continued today with the NPX 300.
Naim accessories
Naim also produce a range of cables, stands and accessories. The Naim Fraim Hi-Fi Stand Shelf is a versatile unit that can be built to any height. The shelf dividers come in three heights to fit any size of component. There are three real wood veneer finishes available. Finally, the legs can be black or silver.
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