Behind the Design of the M66 BluOS Streaming DAC-Preamplifier

 
As NAD Electronics’ most advanced preamplifier to date, the Masters M66 BluOS Streaming DAC-Preamplifier marks a bold chapter in high-fidelity design. Combining cutting-edge digital innovation with uncompromising analogue performance, the M66 sets a benchmark for modern audiophiles. In this edition of Behind the Design, we speak with NAD’s Product Manager, Cas Oostvogel, to explore the ideas and technologies that shaped the M66. From its audiophile-grade DAC to its impact on the future of NAD separates, the M66 represents the forefront of hi-fi excellence.

 
NAD: With its aluminum casework and vibrant touchscreen, the M66 exudes quality and class. How did the design team approach the balance between aesthetic appeal and functional ergonomics in the M66’s development?

Cas Oostvogel: The beauty (pun intended) of the Masters Series’ design is that it’s pretty flexible by itself. Operation is done either through the supplied remote, through the BluOS Controller app or the large touch-screen on the M66’s front panel.

 

As the first component to feature NAD’s proprietary DDH technology, how does this innovation address issues such as inter-sample peak clipping distortion, and what audible improvements can listeners expect?

ISC is a well-known and understood phenomenon in the audio industry which affects many commercially available recordings. It affects the lower sampling frequencies, 44.1 and 48kHz, most (which is 98% or more of all recordings out there, be it CD or through streaming). It results in recordings which sound more dulled in the upper frequency range, particularly with high-dynamic instruments such as drums and piano but also with fine dynamic details such as harpsichords, acoustic guitars, etc.

The solution to solving the problem is as simple as it is elegant: By reducing the digital stream by a few dB before going into the DAC, room is created for the DAC’s integrated and essential reconstruction filter to re-create the analogue waveform without clipping.

It makes the music more lively and natural. The effect is subtle but certainly noticeable with a really good system around the M66.

 
The M66 utilizes ESS Technology’s flagship Sabre DAC and ADC chips. What was the rationale behind this selection, and how do these components contribute to the M66’s audiophile-grade performance?

Over many years, NAD has used ESS DACs. Not only do they measure extremely well (distortion, noise, linearity, etc.), but they are also very neutral sounding, they don’t add or detract from their transparent nature. Of course, any component is only as good as its implementation, something we have lots of experience with. DDH is the icing on the cake.

 

With BluOS integration, the M66 offers access to over 20 streaming services, including lossless and high-resolution audio. How does BluOS enhance the user experience, and what sets it apart from other music management platforms?

BluOS brings many music services, particularly those that are hi-res, together in a single app. You don’t need to deal with different apps and not only are all your favourites and playlists in a single app, but Internet radio stations as well. As mentioned earlier, BluOS is available for all common platforms and works across various well-respected audio brands. It is also free and respects the user’s privacy.

 
The M66 boasts a wide array of inputs and outputs, including MM/MC phono stages, HDMI eARC, and multiple subwoofer outputs. How does this extensive connectivity cater to the diverse needs of modern audiophiles?

There are many high-quality audio sources, both analogue and digital, a music lover may want to play back from, including a TV.

In your opinion, how does the M66 set the stage for future NAD products, and what emerging trends in high-fidelity audio does it address?

The M66 shows that it’s not only internal hardware that contributes to quality. Software will play an ever-increasing role and not just for digital sources. Dirac and Bass control is a good example, with the M66’s four subwoofer outputs it’s now possible to get even bass, without bumps or dips, interacting perfectly with the room and the two main speakers. DDH as mentioned previously is another example where software comes into play as an integral part of performance enhancement.

With its combination of forward-thinking design and audiophile-grade performance, the M66 BluOS Streaming DAC-Preamplifier stands as a true milestone in NAD’s legacy. To learn more about the M66 and explore its full feature set, visit the product page here or experience it in person at your nearest authorized NAD dealer.