muysal

Overall Rating
 5 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Used product for
More than 1 year

Price Paid:  $0.00

Summary:
These mono-blocks historically were probably best in their price range. Their sound is still relevant today. They are conservatively rated at 75 wpc, designed to play loud not as in Krell or Nelson Pass but plenty loud for playing any type of music in a medium size room.

It's the same amplification used in NAP-250 which is the stereo version. These will outperform NAP-250's. Each box gets its own transformer and power regulation. NAP250 does not offer fan ventilation and it's internal star ground wiring is not as well implemented as the 135's. Both 250 and 135's are very successful & well-proven designs, superb build quality, PRAT in spades and a very dynamic sound signature.

Depending on the speakers, pre-amp, improved external PSU's and source equipment they can become more transparent and engaging. I have used them with different components showing a more recessed sound stage or a more forward one. WIth improved source 135's can compete with much more expensive ampliifiers in today's market.

The chrome fascia units go back to the mid-80's. The olive fascia is 90's and early 00'. The 2001 and later units have the best sounding amplification boards. If you see a used pair for sale, grab them because for a substantial fee (not from Naim) they can be vastly improved.

Considering what they sell for these days I can't think of any weaknesses. These are designed for long-term use. I am still using my chrome fascia 135's I bought used from Gene Rubin in the early 90's, they have been powered up 24/7 since their purchase.

Unless you disable the protection circuitry inside (which will short the amp if you cross your speaker wires .. not recommended) it's best to use the Naim NAC5 speaker wire (min 10 feet) - inexpensive but a very good speaker wire that you can also use with non-Naim amplification.

Summary:
If the fundaments of musicality are about playing in tune and in time, the NAP 135 is faultless. No other amplifier I have heard lays so bare the intent of the musicians.

The amp has a tremendous start-stop ability and towering no-nonsense authority.

Brings out the best in loudspeakers that go right up to the wall and you need absolute control of driver excursion.

Other amps may finish off sweeter or more spacious but in my opinion, are limited to certain types of music.

I've been given to understand that the new NAP500 add some cosmetic lustre wihout compromising on the elements that the 135s do so well, and have even more power.

Rob is absolutely right!

Summary:
This amplifier was designed over 15 years ago and is really at home within a high end Naim system.
You will need at least two to drive your speakers. I have gone active with my SBL's with 4. You can go to 6 but that's another story.

The cabinet is standard large Naim with a asingle on / off button and the backlit logo. unlike other naim amps it has a fan with a port on the back of the unit. It's very heavy weighing about 30lbs. Four of them are back breaking.

Although measured output is about 75 watts these amps can reach prodigious sound levels with no distortion at all.

How do they sound ?
They have rhythm. RWhat do i mean by that. They seem to pick up the beat of music in a wonderfully natural way and hold your attention. I get more involved in the performance or track with these amps than anything else I've ever heard.

The Krells' present great sound stages and are greta hifi amps. These if I can be so bold are great music amps. Those who criticise these amps claim they are shut in. I disagree.

They get better at louder volumes, should never be turned off and sound different when they are warmed up.

After about 8 years of owning them I can imagine no other amp in my system.

Blues, rock, techno, jazz, classical. I go from Mozart to lauryn Hill via John Coltrane and Crystal Method. It all sounds great.

Hope this is useful - Email me if you have questions
Robert