NAD M66 (vs NAD M33 and M10V2)

[SIY]

While I understand that this particular forum is all about measurements that are picked up by microphones, and effectively nothing about the sound that reaches our ears (I sometime wonder if this forum is populated largely by the deaf), it was interesting to read your highly subjective summary.

So you've managed to miss every single discussion on listening tests, controls, audible thresholds, ears-only comparisons... This took major effort and you are to be congratulated.

 

[doorofnight]

If you are still a NAD M33 owner consider to find some knowledgeable, experienced and skillful electronic engineer to do some tweaks which have completely transformed my M33 from being an average device sound-wise to something very serious these days.

If you want to go this way you can contact me privately.

My purchase was seduced with the awards given by Stereophile at those days. From that time I do not believe to any review besides what I hear and personally prefer.

From the practical point of view NAD M33 completely covers all my needs which include 2.2 Home Cinema.

What tweaks are those?

 

[SIY]

What tweaks are those?

The brand of tinfoil used in his hat.

 

[Baki]

What tweaks are those?

Typical ones so far, opamps and regulators.

 

[Cpopovic]

September 24 Review

SoundStage! Hi-Fi | SoundStageHiFi.com - NAD Masters M66 Streaming Preamplifier

www.soundstagehifi.com

 

[pogo]

Today I made a comparison between the M33 in preamp mode and the M66.
The same M23 stages in bridge mode and the Dali Epikore 11 were always connected.
Tone controls and Dirac Live were not activated.
The M33 does its job really well, but especially with LIBERTY by Anette Askvik you can hear the differences very quickly and clearly. The sound events are even better resolved and the voice sounds more authentic and less strained.
Next month I'll be listening to the new Bluesound Node Icon against the M66. Then I'll have to make a decision

 

[doorofnight]

The M66 must be a marvel, since the M33 is 100% resolving already

Anyhow, I assume you compared with equalized dB (measured)? And listened in the same room, same speakers and if possible, blind? To be sure that you are not fooling yourself?

 

[pogo]

Anyhow, I assume you compared with equalized dB (measured)?

Not only that. The difference also remained at a little quieter or louder volume level

 

[Hear Here]

Today I made a comparison between the M33 in preamp mode and the M66.
The same M23 stages in bridge mode and the Dali Epikore 11 were always connected.
Tone controls and Dirac Live were not activated.
The M33 does its job really well, but especially with LIBERTY by Anette Askvik you can hear the differences very quickly and clearly. The sound events are even better resolved and the voice sounds more authentic and less strained.
Next month I'll be listening to the new Bluesound Node Icon against the M66. Then I'll have to make a decision

Could I ask you to clarify, as you don't actually say whether the M66 sounds better than the M33, the latter as preamp only.

I hope your words "The sound events are even better resolved and the voice sounds more authentic and less strained." refer to the M66 compared with the M33, although the works could apply to the M33.

Thanks

 

[pogo]

Sorry - the M66 was the better one.

 

[xaxxon]

A forum member recently asked me publish a post to outline the key differences in sound between the NAD M10V2, NAD M33 and NAD M66. I had the pleasure to either own, listen or trial them so here is my take.


Starting with the NAD M10V2

The NAD M10V2 is a great entry in to the audiophile world. It offers an engaging sound profile, delivering a well-balanced and detailed listening experience. Its bass response is authoritative and well-controlled, without overpowering the mids or treble. Vocals are rendered with clarity and natural timbre, while instrumental textures are presented with precision. The overall soundstage is expansive, allowing for ample separation between instruments and vocals, creating a sense of spaciousness and depth. The NAD M10V2 excels at reproducing a wide range of genres, from lively pop and rock to lush orchestral pieces and delicate acoustic performances. A great all-rounder.

NAD M33

The NAD M33 offers a better sonic experience with its enhanced power and precision. The bass response is even more authoritative, with exceptional impact and detail. The mids are enriched with a natural warmth and richness, while the treble is extended and airy, adding sparkle and definition to the sound. The soundstage expands further, creating a more immersive and enveloping listening experience. Instrumental timbres are rendered with remarkable accuracy, revealing subtle nuances and textures. The NAD M33 is particularly well-suited for genres that demand a dynamic and engaging presentation, such as jazz fusion, progressive rock, and electronic music. Still a great integrated amplifier.

NAD M66

The newly launched NAD M66 is closer to the audiophile sound quality, we are all thriving for, offering a reference-level listening experience. The bass response is simply sublime, with effortless authority and exceptional definition. The mids are incredibly smooth and balanced, with a captivating naturalness and vocals are engaging and natural. The treble extends to remarkable heights, revealing the finest details and textures with remarkable precision. The soundstage is expectional and creating an great sense of immersion and presence. Instrumental timbres are rendered with absolute accuracy, allowing listeners to hear each instrument distinctly and in its purest form. The NAD M66 is the ideal choice for audiophiles seeking the pinnacle of sonic fidelity, capable of reproducing even the most demanding recordings with clarity and realism.

Conclusion :

Overall, the NAD M10V2, NAD M33, and NAD M66 represent a diverse range of NAD audio products, and cater to the needs of a wide spectrum of listeners:

The NAD M10V2's versatile and engaging sound profile is suited for everyday listening, while the NAD M33 elevates the listening with enhanced power and precision. The NAD M66 however has audiophile sound quality, offering an unmatched listening experience to more demanding users but this demand comes with hefty price tag (€6K for the streaming DAC only). Again, these are my personal impressions and others may have diverging opinions.

I hope this helps!
Christian

This is the polar opposite to a useful review I’d expect to read here. The kind of word salad you’d expect from one of those Hifi magazines where newer and more expensive always means better.

 

[Hephaestus]

This is the polar opposite to a useful review I’d expect to read here. The kind of word salad you’d expect from one of those Hifi magazines where newer and more expensive always means better.

That "review" is AI generated junk with very high certainty.