The NAD M23 is a stereo power amplifier designed for high-fidelity audio reproduction. It serves as a crucial component in an audio system, amplifying low-level audio signals from a preamplifier or processor to drive loudspeakers. The M23 is engineered to deliver powerful and clear sound, making it suitable for both stereo and home theatre setups.
Function Description
The primary function of the NAD M23 is to provide robust and accurate power amplification for loudspeakers. It takes analog audio input signals and amplifies them to a level sufficient to drive passive speakers. The amplifier is capable of operating in a standard stereo mode, providing two channels of amplification, or it can be configured for mono (bridged) mode, significantly increasing its output power for a single channel. This flexibility allows the M23 to be integrated into various audio configurations, from dedicated two-channel music systems to multi-channel home theatre environments where additional power amplifiers might be needed.
The M23 incorporates protection circuitry to safeguard itself and connected components from potential damage. This includes protection against short circuits and excessive heat build-up. In the event of an issue, the power indicator will change color to alert the user, and the amplifier will enter a protective state.
Usage Features
The NAD M23 offers several features designed to enhance its usability and integration into an audio system:
- Input Selection: The amplifier provides both balanced (XLR) and single-ended (RCA) audio inputs. A SELECT switch on the rear panel allows the user to choose the appropriate input type for each channel (left and right), ensuring compatibility with a wide range of source components. Balanced connections are particularly beneficial for minimizing noise, offering superior audio quality.
- Speaker Terminals: The M23 is equipped with high-quality, gold-plated, color-coded binding-post speaker terminals. These terminals are designed to accept various speaker cable terminations, including bare wire, pin connectors, and banana plugs, facilitating secure and optimal connections to loudspeakers.
- Bridge Mode: A key feature of the M23 is its ability to operate in Bridge Mode. When activated via a switch on the rear panel, the amplifier combines the power of both channels to deliver a much higher output to a single speaker. This is ideal for driving demanding loudspeakers or for use in multi-amplifier setups where high power is required for specific channels.
- Gain Level Adjustment: The M23 includes a GAIN LEVEL switch (LOW/MID/HIGH) on the rear panel. This allows users to adjust the amplifier's input sensitivity to match the output level of their source component. This feature helps ensure consistent volume levels when switching between different sources and prevents overdriving the amplifier.
- +12V Trigger Input: For seamless integration into automated systems, the M23 features a +12V Trigger input. This allows the amplifier to be remotely switched between standby and operating mode by an external controlling device, such as a preamplifier or AV processor, that has a 12V trigger output. This simplifies power management for the entire audio system.
- Auto Standby: The M23 can be configured to automatically enter standby mode if no active source input is detected for a specified period (30 minutes). This power-saving feature can be enabled or disabled by the user.
- Auto Sense: Another intelligent power management feature is Auto Sense. When enabled, the M23 will automatically wake up from standby mode and switch to operating mode if it detects an input signal (minimum 20mV RMS) applied to its balanced or single-ended sockets. This provides convenient, hands-free operation.
- Power Indicator (NAD Logo): The NAD logo on the front panel serves as a multi-color power indicator. It displays different colors (bright/white for normal operation, amber for standby, and red for protect mode) to clearly communicate the amplifier's operational status.
- LED Level (Dimmer): The brightness of the power indicator can be adjusted or turned off using the LED LEVEL (DIMMER) button on the rear panel, catering to user preferences in various listening environments.
- Detachable Power Cord: The M23 comes with a detachable mains power cord, offering flexibility in power cable choice and ease of replacement if needed.
- Ground Terminal: A dedicated ground terminal is provided on the rear panel, allowing for connection to a separate earth ground if necessary to minimize hum or noise in the audio system.
Maintenance Features
The NAD M23 is designed for reliable operation with minimal user maintenance, but some general guidelines are provided:
- Cleaning: The unit should be unplugged from the wall outlet before cleaning. Only a damp cloth should be used for cleaning; liquid or aerosol cleaners are not recommended.
- Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial for the amplifier's performance and longevity. The M23 should be placed on a firm, level surface, avoiding enclosed cabinets without adequate airflow. Its ventilation slots (top and bottom) should never be blocked.
- Power Cord Management: Power-supply cords should be routed carefully to prevent them from being walked on or pinched, paying attention to connections at plugs and where they exit the product.
- Long-Term Storage: If the unit will not be used for an extended period (e.g., several months or during vacation), it is recommended to switch off the rear panel POWER switch and unplug the AC power cord from the mains power source.
- No User-Serviceable Parts: The M23's cover should not be removed as there are no user-serviceable parts inside. Any servicing or repairs should be performed by qualified NAD service technicians. Opening the fuse holder, for instance, should only be done by qualified personnel to avoid voiding the warranty.
- Packaging Retention: Users are advised to save the original packaging (box and all packing materials). This provides the safest container for transporting the M23 if it needs to be moved or serviced.
- Environmental Protection: At the end of its useful life, the product should not be disposed of with regular household waste but returned to a collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment, in accordance with environmental protection guidelines.
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