1130 Stereo Preamplifier

Date of manufacture : Jan 87 - Feb 89

Please note that this document contains the text from the original product brochure, and some technical statements may now be out of date

•Extremely low noise and high headroom for a total dynamic range exceeding 105 dB in every stage.

•Wide-range discrete phono preamp, switch-able for low-noise operation with MM and MC cartridges.

•Bass EQ and infrasonic filtering for solid, powerful deep bass without boomy midbass or rumble.

•Overload-proof line-level inputs for digital disc and tape.

•Powerful headphone amplifier circuit; no power amp needed for full-volume headphone listening.

The NAD 1130 continues the NAD tradition of remarkable price/performance value. An audiophile- quality preamplifier at an extraordinarily low price, the NAD 1130 is the optimum choice for listeners who want a simple, high-performance control centre for use with a powerful amplifier, a bi-amplified system, or active powered loudspeakers.

Do not be deceived by the 1130’s external simplicity and bargain cost; this is not a compromise product, nor a halfway step toward high-quality sound. Its economy is a result of simple but functional controls, canny engineering, efficient manufacturing, modest input/output flexibility, and the elimination of seldom-used features. Behind its modest front panel the 1130’s circuitry-and its sonic performance-are the equal of most preamplifiers costing two or three times more.

Circuit Features

Wide-Range Phono Preamplifier. As long as vinyl phono-graph records remain an important high-quality music source, the phono preamp stage will be the heart of any fine preamplifier- its most important circuit and potentially its weakest link. In contrast to the budget IC stage used in many preamplifiers today, the phono section of the NAD 1130 is a recently designed discrete-transistor circuit with a very precise RIAA equalisation network, whose performance equals or exceeds that of far more expensive preamps.

•The 1130 lets you take full advantage of today’s high quality LPs, because its phono preamplifier is audibly quieter than most other preamps (and quieter than any record). In fact its residual noise level is close to the theoretical limit set by the cartridge itself. This is because the design is optimized, not for the usual short-circuit input, but for the impedances of real magnetic cartridges.

•For low-output moving coil cartridges a rear-panel switch re-sets the preamp’s parameters to provide 20 dB of added gain with extremely low noise. It is quieter than many separate pre-preamplifiers, and it lets you avoid the high cost and hum problems of step-up transformers.

•The phono circuit interfaces correctly with the high im-pedances of moving-magnet pickup cartridges, avoiding com-plex impedance interactions that can alter the pickup’s fre-quency response.

•The input capacitance is switch-selectable, allowing you to provide the loading that the cartridge needs for flattest response.

•The dynamic range of the phono stage, over 105 dB, is ample for the widest-range digitally mastered recordings.

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NAD 1130 brochure Stereo Preamplifier, Circuit Features
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1130 specifications

The NAD 1130 is a notable entry in the world of home audio systems, showcasing a combination of powerful performance and versatile features. Designed primarily for audiophiles and music enthusiasts, the NAD 1130 demonstrates the brand's commitment to delivering high-quality sound reproduction.

One of the main features of the NAD 1130 is its exceptional preamplifier section. It utilizes a high-quality phono stage that supports both Moving Magnet and Moving Coil cartridges, enabling users to connect a wide range of turntables. The preamplifier is equipped with a tonally balanced equalization curve that ensures a warm, rich sound, making it ideal for vinyl enthusiasts who appreciate the nuances of analog recordings.

In terms of connectivity, the NAD 1130 excels with its various input options, including multiple line-level sources. This versatility allows users to connect CD players, cassette decks, and digital audio sources seamlessly. Additionally, the unit features a dedicated tape monitor loop, making it easy to integrate a tape deck for playback and recording purposes. The inclusion of both RCA and balanced XLR outputs further enhances its compatibility with different audio equipment.

Another standout characteristic of the NAD 1130 is its robust build quality. The chassis is designed to minimize vibration and interference, ensuring that the audio signal remains pure and unaffected by external noise. The weighted volume knob and solid control layout provide a tactile experience, allowing users to adjust settings with precision.

Technologically, the NAD 1130 incorporates advanced circuitry that minimizes distortion and enhances linearity. The unit benefits from NAD's expertise in engineering, employing well-designed power supplies and amplification stages that provide a dynamic range and clarity that audiophiles crave. This attention to detail contributes to an overall listening experience that feels both immediate and expansive.

In summary, the NAD 1130 is a distinguished preamplifier that combines premium features with a user-friendly design. Its versatility in connectivity, exceptional sound quality, and robust construction cater to a wide range of audio enthusiasts. With a focus on delivering an authentic listening experience, the NAD 1130 remains a relevant choice for anyone looking to elevate their home audio system. Whether used alone or as part of a larger setup, it is a testament to NAD's commitment to quality and performance in the audio industry.
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