NAD Masters M15 HD2 / M25 in the test

NAD has two programs that have already been tested. Since December 2007 the AV-Vorstufe of the noble Masters-Serie passed two evolution stages. From the M15 came first the M15 HD and now the HD2. This development has been accompanied by profound changes, since the first edition has not yet followed the sensible modular design, which also ensures the future security of the larger NAD receivers.


Structure


Its main board extended horizontally across the entire housing width. From the thoroughly revised M15 HD, the pre-stages of the series can be extended by MDC modules. In addition to the powerful Audyssey MultEQ XT calibration software, HDMI 1.4a, including 3D loops, CEC device control and Audio Return Channel (ARC), was also an option for owners of the M15 HD in the form of the 1,000-euro-expensive retrofit module MDC MV15 is open. Now the solid preamp has six HDMI inputs and two outputs.


Picture gallery


The test pattern of 2007 still had to be satisfied despite the very good overall judgment because of its two HDMI connections ironically criticized criticism. Irony is forbidden today because the M15 has reached an almost biblical age in its fast-paced realm without losing any of its fascination.


Operation


Since no representative of the new series was available yet, NAD entered the game with a laterally upgraded M15 HD - Chapeau, which does not make the Masters so fast. In addition, the manufacturer completely waives scaling. NAD believes that this task is best done by the player. Analog video is digitized and output in native resolution via HDMI. At least, there are two additional listening zones and support for home appliance control via LAN socket.


Hearing test


With the optional docking station NAD IPD 2, the iPod can be integrated into the system. The logic of the old-fashioned OSD menus is cumbersome because the input is done with the right arrow and the OK and return buttons did not effect what one expects. This is quickly accustomed to after initial cursing and can then use the M15 HD2 almost during sleep.


This also applies to the cabling of the already tested M25 output stage, which can be easily achieved by means of additional large mirroring on terminals. The heavy-duty seven-channel bolide costs only 3.500 Euro more than 500 Euro more than in 2007 and not even half as much as its size and components can be expected.


The sound of the Dream team tore the audience just as much from the chairs as five years ago. Picture, spatiality and focus were superb, dynamism, attack and bass-punch awesome. To this came luminous sound colors. Two top masters for stereo and surround, which will surely remain for a long time.