So you’re probably used to the same old hi-fi mantra by now: “separate is best, separate is best” lather rinse repeat. And while there certainly is some truth to the notion that seperate is indeed, technically, a good way to go, there is nothing in the rule book that says its the only way to go. Even if you’re taking it high end, even if you’re gunning for a very high level of sound quality.
There are certain brands that have taken what they know about separation, and are using it to create things that aren’t entirely separate, but behave as though they are. Take, for instance, the gorgeous Naim NAC-N 272…
… there it is! That right there is a high-end pre-amplifier… which also doubles as a very effective, very functional and extremely popular streamer. Don’t worry, Naim haven’t completely abandonned ship to go ‘all lifestyle’ on us, so to speak. They still design and manufacture incredible ‘pure’ pre-amps, alongside some rather excellent integrated-s and powers too. But hey, we know what Naim excel at, aside from amplification (and yes, they still excel at that too, don’t get me wrong there!) is the delicate art of network streaming. Doesn’t it make sense to combine those two things – a source and an amplifier – with the want to create something magnificent?
Well, this magnificent combo has so far proved very popular with all who have stumbled upon it. Many are considering it as an upgrade from one of the (equally popular, and highly functional) Naim Uniti models, or perhaps a step up from an integrated amp by hitching a power amp (Naim, of course!) along for the ride, with the added network streaming extra. And let’s face it, when faced with a team of Naim amps, you won’t turn your nose up at the addition of streaming capabilities.
Hey, it’s what Naim are good at!
We like it when the rules get a little bit bent (all in the name of high-fidelity!) and in this instance it’s done so well we have kept the Naim NAC-N 272 on in our showroom, despite it hardly being the new kid on the block. It’s held its own in the test of time, and it has pride of place paired with the extraordinarily powerful NAP 250DR, which makes for a jaw-dropping pre/power combination which is pure Naim… with a very delicious side of network streaming on the side.
Has that whet your appetite? It’s not often we talk about stuff that isn’t ‘new’, but when we do, you know it’s something worth witnessing for yourself. Give us a shout and we’ll book you in for a Naim experience you will never forget! And don’t worr, that’s an open invitation. We have no plans on changing our Naim set-up any time soon, for a very very good reason.