Интегральные усилители — NAD AMP1

The NAD AMP1 is a compact digital DAC amplifier with Chromecast built in, designed to add streaming and amplification to a stereo system from a small chassis. It combines Class D amplification with ESS Sabre 32-bit DACs, a phono preamp for turntables and Bluetooth, and has since been discontinued. NAD describes a music-first approach to its design and says the AMP1 uses components drawn from its larger amplifiers.

Key specs that matter

Rated output is above 40 W per channel from 20 Hz to 20 kHz with both channels driven, into both 8 and 4 ohm loads. IHF dynamic power reaches 50 W into 8 ohms and 100 W into 4 ohms, and clipping power exceeds 50 W at 1 kHz and 0.1% THD. Total harmonic distortion stays below 0.03% at rated power into either load. Signal-to-noise ratio is above 106 dB A-weighted via the optical input, and response stays inside 0.3 dB either way from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Line input sensitivity is 450 mV, digital sensitivity is minus 5 dBFS, and the phono input needs 5 mV for 40 W at 1 kHz into 8 ohms.

Engineering and use context

The ESS Sabre DACs run in fully balanced mode and are supported by six separate power supplies. Digital playback is handled up to 24-bit and 192 kHz. Physical inputs comprise a stereo line input, two optical ports and a turntable input for moving magnet pickups. Chromecast lets music be cast from mobile devices and from streaming apps, while Bluetooth allows direct wireless connection from phones, tablets and other Bluetooth devices. Low impedance line outputs, with an output impedance of 220 ohms, provide the subwoofer connection. The AMP1 can be operated with remote controls from most popular TV brands, which suits placement alongside a television. The case measures 220 x 63 x 252 mm and weighs 4.85 kg. Standby consumption is below 0.5 W when off and below 3 W in network standby, which keeps the Chromecast connection available. The low-noise circuitry is intended to keep the amplifier stable with difficult speaker loads.

Pairing

A pair of passive loudspeakers connects to the speaker terminals, and the subwoofer output accepts an active bass unit. An MM turntable connects without an external phono preamp, and a TV can be linked through one of the optical inputs.

Alternatives

The NAD C 328 is an alternative integrated amplifier from the same brand.