Musical Fidelity NU-VISTA PRE Preamplifier

Overview

To achieve its unique sound signature, the Nu-Vista PRE features eight (four per-channel) 6S51N nuvistor valves in a discrete, Class A amplifier buffer stage; but there is so much more going on inside this stylish chassis to ensure it delivers reference-grade sound.

The Nu-Vista PRE features fully balanced circuitry and a precision-matched stepped attenuator for volume control. This means even when listening at low or very high volume, the stereo imaging will always remain detailed and precise. For strength in drive, the Nu-Vista PRE even features a pair of mini (circa 50W) power amplifiers, running in Class A for pre-amp purposes, giving the best in line-driving capability and dynamic range, as well as achieving very low noise and distortion.

Further, the power supply capacitance is generous, and chokes are added for further-improved supply ripple. Pulse current spike is also significantly reduced thanks to the clever design. But the secret behind the overall performance is found in the large external power supply unit that accompanies the Nu-Vista PRE.

The Nu-Vista PRE PSU allowed Musical Fidelity’s engineers to remove the AC mains power supply from the main unit and place it in a separate, spacious chassis dedicated to delivering perfect power. Featuring inbuilt mains and output filtering, it functions as a very quiet, clean power supply that allows the sensitive audio circuitry in the Nu-Vista PRE to perform without mains-borne interference, far away from the optimised power transformers. For total convenience in use, the Nu-Vista PRE PSU is switched on and off via the Nu-Vista PRE’s front-panel.

In typical Musical Fidelity style, the overall construction of the Nu-Vista PRE and Nu-Vista PRE PSU is uncompromisingly solid. The front and side panels are milled from extruded aluminium profiles, contributing to a chassis that effectively acts as a Faraday cage, protecting the internal circuitry from external electromagnetic fields. Because of the overall weight, the chassis is also resistant to other mechanical vibrations and airborne interference.

The Nu-Vista PRE features 12 independent inputs, six RCA pairs and six fully balanced XLR pairs. For better system matching there is also a +6dB Gain boost button, which remembers which inputs need the feature applied. Complete control is available via the front panel, or using the dedicate remote control, which is itself machined from a block of aluminium for the same feel. The Nu-Vista PRE PSU is then supplied with the required power cables for easy connection to the main unit.

The Nu-Vista PRE represents a first for Musical Fidelity. Its technical performance and measurements are astonishing and truly class leading. But more importantly this all results in a sound that is like nothing else. It is silky smooth with enormous transients and an effortless feel that is at once relaxing and involving. When combined with the matching power amplifier, they project an image between the loudspeakers that is so real, you could almost touch it.