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Nagra Audio Nagra CLASSIC PREAMP
Class A tube stereo preamplifier
Nagra’s engineers have taken as a starting point the critically acclaimed Nagra JAZZ preamplifier and, incorporating elements of the design philosophy that characterises the HD DAC, have created a preamplifier that delivers even more performance and musicality for an exceptional listening experience.
The Classic PREAMP is the ideal partner for the Nagra Classic AMP and Classic DAC.
Design
Extended chassis common to the Classic range allows a greater number of components to be used compared to the Nagra JAZZ. This allows greater filtering of the internal power supplies for an improved listening experience. This design philosophy was first seen on the HD DAC and inspires the entire Classic range.
Electronics
Bespoke polypropylene capacitors created especially for the Classic PREAMP are used for decoupling and interstage to deliver exceptional performance.
Wide frequency response and linear phase response provided by no-compromise design and high quality custom-made components.
Separate multiple ultra low-noise right and left channel power supplies create a larger and more realistic soundstage.
High-quality headphones amplifier circuit is the same as that employed by the Nagra HD DAC.
Connectivity
1 x XLR and 4 x RCA inputs enable the Classic PREAMP to be connected to a variety of sources.
2 x XLR and 1 x RCA outputs allow the Classic PREAMP to be connected to two power amps if required for a monobloc solution.
A true bypass XLR connector allows the machine to be hooked up to a high-end home cinema to benefit from a power amp downstream and provide a neat cabling solution.
Optional input and output transformers are available separately to create a fully symmetrical floating signal that will further enhance performance. These transformers are hand-wound in-house by Nagra in order to meeting the exacting standards of the design brief.
Power supply
On-board internal power-supply allows direct connection to the mains, a feature shared with the Classic DAC. This solution, which obviates the need for the external Nagra ACPS II power supply delivered separately with other Nagra units nonetheless produces superior performance. Should the customer desire, the Classic PREAMP can be powered by Nagra’s dedicated Classic PSU power supply via the 12 V DC Lemo connector on the rear panel to provide additional performance gains.
User-friendly design
Front panel with LCD screen, similar to the Nagra CLASSIC DAC so that each input can be named. An intuitive menu allows access to custom settings as well as operating time. All functions are accessible via a provided remote.
Traditional Nagra Modulometer showing the output level.
Output gain is switchable between 0 and 12 dB via a switch on the front panel to achieve optimal gain whatever the nature of the source.
Same dimensions as the other elements in the Nagra CLASSIC range allowing for neat and aesthetic stacking in the building of a complete Nagra system from various components.
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Professional Reviews 92/100
Deliciously Crispy
Sound Quality
94/100
Build Quality
94/100
Features Connectivity
87/100
Value for Money
88/100
The Nagra Classic Preamp pairs exceptional transparency with tight, textured bass and a vast, precisely layered soundstage, delivering tube refinement without overt coloration. Tom Lyle heard striking musical realism and separation, while TONEAudio MAGAZINE praised its neutral balance, dynamics, and amplifier compatibility. Polished controls, balanced connectivity, and an accomplished headphone stage complete a compelling high-end linestage.
What Reviewers Are Saying
Pros
Exceptionally transparent, natural presentation with minimal tube coloration and strong musical engagement.
Large, precisely organized soundstage keeps instruments distinctly separated in space.
Controlled, defined bass combines texture and speed with strong low-frequency extension.
Flexible RCA/XLR connectivity and a highly regarded built-in headphone amplifier broaden system utility.
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Cons
Premium pricing makes it a considered purchase, especially when optional VFS or external PSU upgrades are added.
SOUND QUALITY PERFORMANCE 94/100
Reviewers describe an unusually clear, neutral and musically involving tube preamplifier rather than one that imposes an obvious tube character. It combines strong bass control and dynamic expression with a notably large, sharply separated and dimensional presentation.
Transparency Resolution
95/100
Enjoy the Music heard no discernible "tube sound," instead praising the Classic for passing the signal with very little alteration and calling its presentation ultra-luculent. TONEAudio likewise found its tonal balance neutral enough to reveal the character of the partnering power amplifier, while also describing it as quieter and more refined than its predecessor.
Tonal Balance Musicality
94/100
The Classic is repeatedly described as highly musical, natural and convincing, from voices that emerge more believably from the speakers to a midrange that is rich without stereotypical tube coloration. TONEAudio praised its neutral tonal balance, while Enjoy the Music felt it made every recording feel important and engaging.
Dynamics
93/100
TONEAudio calls the newer preamplifier more dynamic, and found that the optional PSU brings still greater slam, definition and musical flow. Audiophilepure also heard more speed, life and texture in bass-heavy material, supporting a lively rather than softened presentation.
Soundstage Imaging
96/100
Spatial performance is a standout: reviewers heard a soundfield that is larger in every dimension and more three-dimensional with the PSU. Enjoy the Music praised the huge, drawn-to-scale stage, with instruments remaining distinctly separated even when occupying similar positions and levels.
Assessments of Build Quality, Usability, and Overall Propositions.
Build Quality
94/100
Reviewers praise the precision of the casework, the smooth operation of the controls and the tactile quality of the volume, source and toggle controls. The distinctive Modulometer and professional-recorder-inspired execution reinforce the impression of carefully finished, purposeful hardware.
Features Connectivity
87/100
The Classic provides four RCA inputs and one balanced XLR input, plus RCA and dual balanced XLR outputs for flexible system integration. It also includes a highly praised headphone amplifier, user-customizable input names and a true balanced home-theater bypass, though it remains a focused analog line preamplifier without onboard digital or phono facilities.
Value for Money
88/100
At roughly $17,500 to $17,900, reviewers openly recognize that the Classic is expensive. Even so, Enjoy the Music calls it definitely worth the price for systems able to reveal its qualities, and Audiophilepure considers it a worthwhile upgrade when the outlay does not create financial strain.
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Verified Dealers
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Authorized dealers for Nagra Audio Nagra CLASSIC PREAMP
- Resolution A/V — in-store — New York City, New York, United States (website)
- Ajasom — online and in-store — Amadora, Lisboa, Portugal (website)
- Alma Music & Audio — online and in-store — San Diego, California, United States (website)
- Arizona Hi-Fi — in-store — Phoenix, Arizona, United States (website)
- Assai Audio — in-store — Centro, Comunidad de Madrid, Spain (website)
- Audio Aktoren — online and in-store — Horten, Vestfold, Norway (website)
- Audio Concept - Luxembourg — in-store — Gare, Luxembourg, Luxembourg (website)
- Audio Gallery — online and in-store — Las Rozas de Madrid, Comunidad de Madrid, Spain (website)
- Audio Natali — in-store — Montecatini Terme, Toscana, Italy (website)
- Audio Salon — in-store — Boca Raton, Florida, United States (website)
and 29 more verified dealers