At the moment, Nihal opinions the Nostalgia Audio NA12, a high-end tri-brid common IEM consisting of a mixture of 12 BA, EST, and bone conduction drivers. It’s priced at $2159.00.
Disclaimer: It is a pattern despatched to me in alternate for my sincere opinion. Headfonics is an impartial web site with no affiliate hyperlinks or standing. I thank the crew at Nostalgia Audio for his or her assist.
Click on right here to learn extra about Nostalgia Audio merchandise we’ve got beforehand reviewed on Headfonics.
This text follows our present scoring guidelines which you’ll be able to learn right here in additional element.
Nostalgia Audio has established itself as a revered IEM model from Hong Kong. Since its inception in 2020, the model has constructed a robust repute with well-received releases just like the Camelot and Tesseract.
Having had the chance to strive the Camelot on a number of events, I discovered it to be a stable performer. Along with crafting audiophile-grade IEMs, Nostalgia Audio additionally makes a speciality of skilled studio displays.
From my expertise with current studio monitoring IEMs, I’ve seen a major narrowing of the hole between audiophile-grade IEMs {and professional} displays. Fashionable skilled displays now incorporate options that enchantment to each segments, making them more and more versatile.
The NA12, touted as one of the best studio reference IEM Nostalgia Audio has ever produced, goals to push these boundaries additional. Naturally, I couldn’t move up the prospect to evaluate it.
On this evaluate, we’ll delve into the efficiency of the NA12 and consider the way it compares to some well-established IEMs.
Options
The driving force configuration of the NA12 encompasses a tri-brid design, incorporating 8 proprietary balanced armature drivers, twin electrostatic drivers, and the most recent Sonion dual-membrane bone conduction vibrator with a 6-way crossover.
The 8 balanced armature drivers cowl the sub-lows, mid-lows, mid-highs, and highs, with two drivers devoted to every vary banding. For the ultra-highs, the NA12 makes use of a twin Sonion electrostatic driver array
The twin bone conduction drivers are particularly tuned for the midrange frequencies, serving to the vocals obtain higher readability and precision.
The NA12 is rated at 116 dB @ 1kHz, 1mW, and an impedance of 18Ω @ 1kHz making it a comparatively simple IEM to drive.
Design
The shells of the NA12 are crafted from resin and are bigger than common. In the event you’re accustomed to the Camelot, the form and measurement are fairly comparable.
The NA12 encompasses a deep purple, single-tone colour with a barely clear end. Its design is minimalistic however visually interesting, with darker tones alongside the sides including a richer, extra subtle look.
The faceplates are easy, adorned with the model’s brand on one facet and the mannequin’s title, “NA12,” on the opposite.
These IEMs use a normal 2-pin 0.78mm connector. The two-pin join slot is barely recessed making certain that the cable related to the IEM is tightly secured. The nozzles are bigger and longer than typical designs, which can impression match relying on the consumer.
Consolation & Isolation
As a result of their bigger measurement, these IEMs could not supply the snuggest of matches, however their exceptionally light-weight shells make them comfy for prolonged listening classes.
The graceful edges and rounded corners stop any undesirable strain on contact factors, enhancing total consolation.
Whereas the bigger shells do protrude barely exterior the ears when worn, they really feel safe and steady with none sensation of being pulled out or hanging awkwardly.
With correctly becoming ear suggestions, the IEMs virtually disappear by way of their presence, making them extremely unobtrusive.
As soon as inserted, these IEMs keep firmly in place, making them perfect for on-the-go use, with minimal danger of falling out or loosening.
The noise isolation in all fairness efficient, blocking out a good quantity of exterior sound. With well-fitted ear suggestions, the isolation improves additional, making a extra immersive listening expertise.
Ear Ideas
Nostalgia has performed a superb job with the ear tip choice. The package deal features a set of Dekoni Washable Reminiscence Foam suggestions and two units of silicone ear suggestions, every designed to reinforce consolation and sound high quality.
The silicone suggestions can be found in small, medium, and enormous sizes, whereas the Dekoni foam suggestions are supplied in a single measurement.
Moreover, there’s an in-house designed XWB (“Additional Large Bore”) ear tip. This design encompasses a bigger bore particularly crafted to accommodate the broader nozzles of bigger IEMs.
In distinction, the included black silicone suggestions are a slender bore, providing another sound profile.
Though I’m not a frequent consumer of froth suggestions, the Dekoni Bulletz is extremely regarded within the audio group, and I can see why.
In my transient expertise with them, they supplied a comfortable and cozy match. In comparison with many different foam ear suggestions available on the market, the Dekoni Bulletz stand out for his or her superior high quality and match.
The silicone ear suggestions are additionally well-crafted, with a comfortable texture that ensures each consolation and sturdiness. The XWB ear suggestions deserve particular point out for his or her safe match and compatibility with bigger nozzles, making them a superb selection.
Nonetheless, I discovered the black narrow-bore silicone suggestions much less appropriate for the IEM, as their smaller bore diameter appeared to restrict the openness of the sound.
As a bonus, the package deal additionally included an additional pair of XWB ear suggestions, which seems to be a complimentary addition—a considerate contact from Nostalgia.
Inventory Cable
The NA12 comes with two high-quality cables, providing versatility for various use instances. One is a single-ended 3.5mm silver-plated cable, perfect for basic listening, whereas the opposite is a balanced 4.4mm high-purity silver-plated cable, good for enhanced audio efficiency.
This considerate inclusion gives customers with flexibility, whether or not they use the NA12 as on a regular basis earphones or for skilled monitoring.
The three.5mm cable, designed for studio monitoring, encompasses a skinny and supple construct, making certain consolation throughout prolonged use. Whereas I primarily used the balanced cable, the three.5mm choice proved equally efficient in sound high quality, sustaining a constant listening expertise.
The balanced cable stands out with its premium building, crafted from 4 26AWG high-purity Litz silver-plated copper wires for ultra-low resistance and superior audio constancy.
Its comfortable PVC insulation gives wonderful flexibility, and its light-weight design makes it simple and cozy to hold on the go.
The {hardware} on the balanced cable is modern and well-designed. The 4.4mm cylindrical adapter is available in a silver end with the phrase “Nostalgia” engraved.
The Y-split is equally spectacular, that includes a cylindrical form adorned with the Nostalgia Audio brand, including a contact of sophistication to the general aesthetic.
Packaging & Equipment
The packaging of the Nostalgia NA12 delivers a premium expertise. The field, modern and black, is compact but thoughtfully designed. A trendy outer sleeve, adorned with a purple and white design that includes the model and product names, enhances the aesthetic enchantment.
Sliding off the sleeve reveals a neatly organized inside with a foam cutout that securely holds the contents.
With its first rate measurement, the field affords ample area, making certain all parts are snugly and elegantly positioned. Inside, you’ll discover the carry case, a pair of IEMs, and a packet of ear suggestions, every meticulously positioned of their designated slots.
The general presentation exudes sophistication, complemented by the high-quality equipment included. Each element displays a particular consideration to craftsmanship, elevating the unboxing expertise to a brand new stage.
Carry Case
The carry case for the NA12 is product of aluminum, giving it a stable and durable really feel when held. It’s also notably heavy.
The case is cylindrical and encompasses a screw-top mechanism, the place the higher half rotates counterclockwise for simple opening. This design affords safer storage in comparison with instances that merely slide open.
Engraved in massive font on the heart of the lid is the “NA12” brand, together with the model title. The case has a easy matte black coating that, after weeks of use, reveals no indicators of chipping, indicating excessive sturdiness.
Inside, there’s ample area to retailer each the IEMs and the cable. Nonetheless, as a consequence of its measurement and weight, it could not match comfortably in smaller pockets.
Moreover, a mesh pouch is included, offering a handy choice for storing the shells and defending them from scratches.
Sound Impressions
The next sound impressions of the Nostalgia Audio NA12 had been accomplished utilizing a combination of my important supply, Lotoo’s Paw Gold Touch, and infrequently the Questyle CMA18P and Astell&Kern SP3000. For the evaluate, I paired the IEMs with inventory cable and Divinus Velvel ear suggestions, measurement L.
Abstract
The Nostalgia Audio NA12 is designed primarily as an expert IEM, and it effortlessly strikes a stability between precision monitoring and audiophile-grade tuning.
Its sound signature may be very coherent, with no frequency vary overstated, leading to a pure and lifelike listening expertise.
The NA12 delivers a heat sound profile with a near-neutral tilt, distinguishing it from sharp, treble-forward IEMs. Its easy, non-fatiguing presentation makes it a extremely musical selection, a attribute usually related to audiophile tuning.
Bass
Regardless of being an all-balanced armature driver setup, the NA12 impresses with its bass response. I
n current months, having reviewed a number of IEMs with balanced armature bass, I’ve discovered the hole between dynamic and balanced armature drivers to be minimal, although the pure really feel of dynamic drivers nonetheless holds an edge.
The NA12 affords satisfying bass punch and impression, with a good, managed low finish that by no means overwhelms the combo. Nonetheless, the deep rumbles and sub-bass depth which might be attribute of dynamic drivers should not as pronounced right here.
It is a well-textured bass, with stable layering, however it doesn’t slam with the identical depth. The main focus appears to be on creating a practical, well-paced bassline, emphasizing pace and texture slightly than uncooked energy.
The mid-bass is barely boosted, offering a punchy sound, although it may gain advantage from a extra rounded high quality, because the lingering impression generally dissipates a bit too shortly, giving it a barely unfastened character across the edges.
Though the sub-bass is current it doesn’t go significantly deep, providing a refined presence slightly than a visceral impression. General, the bass strikes a high quality stability between amount and high quality, making it neither overwhelming nor missing.
Midrange
The midrange of the NA12 is each heat and pure, with a timbre-perfect presentation that precisely reproduces devices and vocals. Whereas the bone-conducting drivers add some vibrancy to the sound, the impact is refined and doesn’t drastically alter the general presentation.
Its decrease midrange brings fullness to the sound, including thickness and weight to vocals and devices, with a pleasant sense of depth supplied by the burden of the notes.
Vocals have a easy, textured high quality, providing a cultured pure really feel. Nonetheless, the vocals should not the point of interest; as an alternative, they’re well-balanced throughout the combine, stopping them from overshadowing the opposite parts. This offers the NA12 a extra balanced, slightly than midrange-forward, character.
Devices are clear and clearly outlined, with fast assault and decay. For instance, the electrical guitar’s gritty, distorted texture provides depth, whereas the piano’s crisp tone gives a easy counterpoint.
Nonetheless, the higher midrange might use a contact extra chew, because it lacks some crispness, which impacts the general sense of readability and pleasure on this area.
Treble
The NA12 is just not a treble-focused IEM, regardless of the inclusion of a number of balanced armature and electrostatic drivers within the excessive frequencies.
Treble fanatics could not discover it as thrilling, however there’s little lacking by way of element, pace, and accuracy. The treble is easy and non-fatiguing, although not overly relaxed or energetic.
Whereas it delivers good element, some high-frequency devices like cymbals and flutes may gain advantage from extra distinction, as the main points can generally mix collectively in treble-heavy passages.
It’s a extra refined, laid-back treble presentation that prioritizes smoothness over sparkle, avoiding harshness however missing a little bit of crunch and presence.
Staging & Dynamics
As an expert monitor in the beginning, the NA12 excels in soundstage and imaging.
The soundstage is holographic and spacious with out feeling artificially huge, and it has wonderful depth, with a noticeable vertical dimension. The front-to-back presentation is nicely executed, offering a way of distance between parts within the combine.
Imaging is exact, making it simple to find devices throughout the soundstage. Even in complicated, busy tracks, the NA12 maintains clear separation, and there’s no congestion.
Whereas the general technical efficiency is spectacular, the decision and precision of the notes could possibly be barely improved.
Being labeled an expert studio monitor, a bit extra readability and accuracy would elevate the listening expertise additional, although it’s right here that the NA12 leans extra in the direction of an audiophile tuning, providing heat and smoothness on the expense of final precision.
Click on page 2 below for my recommended pairings and selected comparisons.
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