suggested new pre-amp

Posted by: xcentric on 22 May 2018

Not sure if this should be in the streaming or hi-fi sections, but this one seems more active.....

I'm wondering what the chances of Naim producing a new pre-amp in its separates (classic) range that recognises that many people are going down the streaming/local server route, and so would produce a 252-quality pre-amp with just a digital in, so focussing on the DAC and the pre-amp capabilities.  Might have an inbuilt supply (282?) or a separate one (a la 252).  Could then be sold at a grand or so (so much simpler to make and less costly too) and drive sales of the other streamers etc.

It would be a no-brainer, marketing wise. Doesn't detract from existing markets, develops the brand as a leader in streaming tech, and pushes Nova/Atom people towards separates and the gentle naim upgrade route that keeps the money rolling (well, dribbling) into the company.

Anyone know if this is on the cards? And if not, why not?

Posted on: 22 May 2018 by Eloise

Well if it includes a DAC it’s not going to be a grand for Naim 252 quality.  The Naim DAC V1 is essentially already existing but not the level you indicate.

Posted on: 22 May 2018 by ChrisSU

I presume you mean an analogue preamp with a single input for a digital source, rather than a digital input? Particularly given that all Naim streamers have DACs built in. Actually, it would fit my needs very well, although I think your £1k price suggestion is wildly optimistic. 

Posted on: 22 May 2018 by Frank Yang

NAC-N 272 would be a superset of this! A next generation of NAC 272 would be more desirable.

Posted on: 22 May 2018 by Skip

I have borrowed a 272 while my 552 is in the spa for its recap and DR.   It sounds more than worthy to me.  It lacks one or more of the DIN inputs I need.   But it has a surfeit of digital inputs.   It might be worth a listen.   If I needed a permanent solution, I would get a separate box for streaming and the like because the product lifecycle is still rapidly changing.  But for a single box preamp with the option to add a power supply, this seems like a winner.

Posted on: 22 May 2018 by NickSeattle

I realize nobody is asking on this thread, but the ability to map each of the six input buttons to the desired input terminal on the 552 is a very desirable feature, which answers, in an alternative way, the wish to simplify, while, at the same time, giving maximum flexibility.

It is not the answer for minimalists; it IS the answer for configuration geeks, like me.

Nick

 

Posted on: 22 May 2018 by Perol

No matter how much they are reducing manufacture cost, they hardly begin to price RRP accordingly

Even a Muso Qb have fixed market price but made in China to a cost point.

Posted on: 23 May 2018 by xcentric
ChrisSU posted:

I presume you mean an analogue preamp with a single input for a digital source, rather than a digital input? Particularly given that all Naim streamers have DACs built in. Actually, it would fit my needs very well, although I think your £1k price suggestion is wildly optimistic. 

I do - thanks for the clarification of my miscommunication.  Maybe £1k is optimistic, but I can live in hope.....

Posted on: 24 May 2018 by French Rooster

townsend allegri ?  but more 3k ....