Naim Audio: new Classic Series

A new series from Naim is a rare thing — if ever there was a company that built products to stand the test of time, it is Naim Audio. Its models tend to remain in production for a long time, and only get upgrades for good reasons.

NSC 222 Streaming Pre-amplifier $13,500

This well-equipped unit offers multiple streaming platforms, including Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz and Apple Music, plus a very large number of online radio stations, and handles bitrates up to 32-bit/284kHz. It also features a phono input and a high-performance headphone amplifier. One of Naim’s strong points is its dedicated Naim App. Many very fine networked-enabled pieces have failed because they have been cumbersome to control via their app, but Naim’s companion app is one of the best around. So not only is the performance of the NSC 222 superb, but it is also easy and intuitive to use.

NAP 250 Power Amplifier $13,500

This revamped classic features trickle-down technology from Naim’s Statement amplifier. Now rated at 100 watts per channel, and with tons of current to boot (+/- 28 amps peak), this amplifier will drive all but the most difficult of loudspeaker loads.

NPX 300 Power Supply $13,500

The NPX 300 deactivates the internal power supply of the components it is connected to, reducing noise and providing a superior, cleaner power supply. The NPX 300 not only works with the new Classic Series components but is also compatible with other electronics in the Naim stable, including the 200 Series, the NDX2 and the NAC-N 272.

New Sonos models announced

Sonos has launched two all-new wireless speakers, the Era 100 and Era 300

 Era 100 This marks a significant improvement on the Sonos One, with the introduction of an additional tweeter and a larger subwoofer. The processing speed is also significantly faster, and importantly you can now stream to the Era 100 via Bluetooth. There is also a USB-C input for connecting external devices. $399

 Era 300 This has all the features of the Era 100, except that it has four tweeters (one upward firing) and two woofers. The end goal here is that it delivers ‘spatial’ and more immersive audio, and this includes using two of the Era 300s alongside a Sonos Arc for a 7.1.4 surround set-up. Just don’t expect it to sound like the JBL system on page 9! $749

Rega New timber finish

Rega turntables have been a staple part of our product mix since we opened. We can recall when Rega featured a timber border around its plinths (which is something of a collector’s item these days!)

Well, timber is now back in vogue. You can buy the Rega Planar 2 ($999) with a timber plinth as an alternative to the gloss black, white or red one.