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118
Digital Pre-Amplifier
• 8 inputs: 4 analogue and 4 digital
• High resolution 18 bit/48kHz sampling frequency A to D
converter for analogue sources
• High resolution 20 bit main D to A converter
• Automatic sampling rate selection (32, 44.1, 48kHz)
• 5 User selectable DSP (Digital Signal Processing) modes
• Volume, Balance, Polarity, Mono/Stereo all controlled
in the Digital domain
• Full remote control
• Separate Digital outputs for external D to A converter
and digital recorder
The NAD Model 118 represents the latest in State-of-the-Art technology. Unlike any other digital pre-
amplifier available the NAD engineers kept the operation of this pre-amplifier simple and intuitive,
resisting the temptation to add any little used gimmicks so that its extraordinary features and
performance can be used and enjoyed by anybody -without any technical background or experience.
Features & flexibility
Over the past few years more and more digital sources have become available to us (CD, DAT, NICAM,
etc.). However, we also rely heavily on analogue sources (Compact Cassette, FM Radio, etc.) and will
continue to do so for the foreseeable future. Using Digital technology allows us a level of control which
simply is not possible in the Analogue domain (without outrageous cost only or with adverse side
effects). Despite it's limitations almost all pre-amplifiers on the market today employ only analogue
technology. This either results in mediocre tone controls and other features, or total deletion of ANY
useable feature because of the side-effects.
However, thanks to Digital Signal Processing the NAD Model 118 can offer a wide variety of truly useful
features:
1. Bass, Mid and Treble controls: Apart from the usual Bass and Treble controls, the Model 118 offers a
control with which you can change the Midrange response; bring vocalists forward, give copper
sections in an orchestra more presence, etc. Unlike analogue tone controls there is no phase shifting,
thus preserving the stereo image. It is possible to substitute the Bass control for a phase-free Infra
sonic filter which will effectively remove any unwanted low frequency noises (rumble, etc.).
2. Stereo Width & Spread control: The Width control influences Stereo separation. Reduce separation
for traditional "Ping-Pong" stereo recordings, alternatively, for recordings with only a small stereo
image the "width" of the sound stage can be enhanced. The Spread control "defocuses" the original
stereo sound stage or provides a synthesised stereo function from mono sources, thus avoiding the
"keyhole" effect.
3. FM Mode: This control combines the Stereo Width control with the Spread control. As the control is
turned clockwise, stereo separation is reduced but at the same time Spread is introduced. This has
the effect of reducing the noise level from the FM broadcast but maintaining a realistic sense of
"spaciousness".
4. Compressor / Expander: Without any of the side effect of analogue compressors such as pumping and
hissing, you can reduce the overall dynamic range of the music, so you can listen at moderate
listening levels without the soft passages becoming too soft or the loud passages becoming too loud.
It is also possible to reverse the process; expanding the dynamic range of the music, which can be
useful, for example, with some classical music radio broadcasts where dynamics are often
compressed and potentially reduce the listener's enjoyment of the music .