NAC 12

Posted by: analogmusic on 01 September 2017

I'm happy where I am with my 2 Naim systems, but just curious about that first Naim preamp NAC 12.

How does it sound compared to a modern Naim preamp, and what does it do different...?

I recall one of the forum members who has some amplifier design experience said the preamp is the most difficult to get right.

Posted on: 02 September 2017 by NFG

Hi

I listened to one ages ago in Salt Lane & to my memory it sounded very good, different to the new ones, in a good way.

Found this recently when trawling for info on my 62

https://www.naimaudio.com/site...rtage_Oct%202014.pdf

 

Posted on: 02 September 2017 by Richard Dane

I'm not great at describing how things sound but I guess I would say that the NAC12 is a bit forward, and a bit "clanky" and with limitations mostly at the top and bottom compared to later Naim pre-amps.  It is, however, great fun and very engaging.  Of course, that's just describing my own NAC12, which has been upgraded by Naim over the years from an early single board to daughter board, and then to take 3 series phono boards and RCA on the phono input, and also with an ALPS Blue volume pot, so a different one may be a bit..  different?

Posted on: 02 September 2017 by analogmusic

Thanks for responses.

Posted on: 02 September 2017 by Paul Quigley ie

I have a 12s with on channel broken. Was thinking of getting a 110 to go with it. The 12s would need a big service no as it has not been switched on in over 20 years. What is the difference between the 12 and 12s.  I remember the 12a having a coloured but fun presentation? 

Posted on: 02 September 2017 by Nick Lees

Um. I had a NAC12 (until my next door neighbour's lad nicked it and the rest of my stereo (left the Wharfedale Dovedales), but it didn't look like any of the pictures I find online. It was chrome bumper, but it had no trim on the bottom edge, so the chrome-edged outer skin bit formed a U-shape (the accompanying NAP110 had a chrome surround on all four sides).

Does anyone else remember this oddity?