Nagra – Reference PREAMP And Reference AMP – First Look
All Image Credit: Nagra
Nagra has announced its latest additions to its Reference line of high-end audio components, the new Nagra Reference PREAMP and Nagra Reference AMP. This latest iteration of the 2017 and 2020 updated PREAMP has now produced this reference version. While the Nagra Reference AMP is built upon the design of the Nagra HD AMP.
Originally released in 2017 and later updated in 2020 the Nagra HD PREAMP said to “set new standards in the analog preamplifier category”. Latest upgrades to this Reference PREAMP include; custom-made capacitors, advanced high-voltage power supplies, and dual-chassis power configurations for superior audio and control signal separation. Additional features include; new generation high voltage power supplies inside the audio signal unit, Super-cap capacity added inside the power supply and mechanical damping with the addition of a phenolic layer inside the top cover. The design also supports up to two external power supplies, the addition of the second optional PSU claiming to result in a “more spectacular and life-like” performance.
The Reference AMP builds upon the HD-AMP that was originally designed about 10 years ago and features many mechanical and electronic improvements. Upgrades include; a 25% larger PSU with 2000VA transformers, a new input circuit with super low output impedance to drive the power amplifier circuit, improved Class A operation, upgraded internal cabling and refined mechanical damping to minimize vibrations. Two pairs of WBT Next-Gen speaker posts support a choice of two different damping factors.
Features At A Glance:
- The Reference PREAMP features:
- Essential component changes in the audio unit, including custom made capacitors
- New generation high voltage power supplies inside the audio signal unit (generating the 200 V DC grid tension)
- Super-cap capacity added inside the power supply
- Dual chassis power supplies, one dedicated to the audio signal section, one dedicated to all of the controls and relay switching, including home automation*
- Mechanical damping with the addition of a phenolic layer inside the top cover
- REF medallion above the modulometer as part of the Reference family of products
- The Reference AMP features:
- New uprated 2000 VA transformers, isolated in an epoxy potting
- New adjustable resonance decoupling feet, featuring phenolic and pure copper
- New input circuit, with super low output impedance to drive the amplifier circuit
- Increased Class A range of operation
- New inner line and speaker cables, selected for sonics and sourced from a highly regarded high-end manufacturer
- Internal three-stage mechanical damping to silence deleterious vibrations of key parts
- New WBT Next-Gen speaker posts
- Damping factor controlled outputs, (A) for deeper bass, (B) for tight bass to match your speakers / room
- Aesthetic casework changes to match the Ref line design, including hallmark Nagra chamfering
- REF medallion on the front panel as part of the Reference family of products
Specifications:
- Reference Pre Amp
- Coming Soon
- Reference Amp
- Coming soon
MSRP (Preamp & 1 PSU/Amp – pair):
- US: $91,297.50/$112,095.00
- UK: £TBA
- EU: €TBA
For more information on the Reference models visit the Nagra web site.
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