NAIM Audio’s first asynchronous USB digital-to-analogue converter, the DAC-V1, was launched at the 2013 International CES in Las Vegas this week. One can imagine Naim diehards letting out a sigh of relief, since this was about the only component missing from the Brit stalwart’s extensive range.
Apart from the obvious (USB input, that is), the DAC-V1 sports five S/PDIF inputs (one BNC, two coaxial and two optical), a precision volume control and headphone amp (accessed via an input in front). It’s also only 20cm wide, so desktops beckon invitingly.
The DAC-V1, when hooked up to a PC or Mac, will play back audio files from iTunes, Windows Media Player and a number of other audio applications of up to 24-bit/384kHz resolution. The other digital inputs are good for 24/192. At the heart of this bit-cruncher are a Burr Brown PCM1791A DAC and a SHARC ADSP21489 DSP digital filter.
An OLED panel in front (obviously) displays incoming bit rates, so you can perform bit-perfect checks on your ripped music files. And apart from connectivity to a computer and a variety of digital sources, the DAC-V1 can also combine with Naim’s UnitiServe hard-disk server.
Provided outputs at the rear are DIN and RCA, either fixed or variable, which means the DAC-V1 can be lined out directly to a power amp.
Ah, and here’s the other bit of news – to complement the DAC-V1, Naim has also launched the NAP 100 power amp.
This one shares the same compact footprint as the DAC-V1, but don’t let the size fool you – the NAP 100 delivers 50 legendary Naim watts per channel (into 8 ohms, 100W into 4 Ohms) with trademark verve and robustness, and without sacrificing clarity. The dual mono design is based on the circuit topology of the SuperUniti reference all-in-one player.
Those in a hurry to get theirs should check with their distributor/dealer for arrival times – we’re told the DAC-V1 is priced at £1,250 and the NAP 100 at £650. More details at Naim Audio.
