NAD Masters M66 BluOS Streaming DAC / Preamplifier

The digital section of the M66 employs ESS Technology’s flagship ES9038PRO Sabre DAC, an audiophile-grade design acclaimed for its ultra-low noise and distortion, exceptionally wide dynamic range, and superb time-domain performance.

For volume adjustment, the M66 employs an ultra-precise resistor-ladder control circuit. Compared to traditional analogue circuits, the M66’s digital volume control markedly reduces thermal and related distortions, maximises dynamic range, and more accurately matches left- and right-channel output across the entire volume range.

To enable functions like Dirac Live Room Correction and Dirac Live Bass Control with all signal sources, analogue signals are converted to digital by ESS Technology’s ES9822PRO flagship ADC. However, the M66 has a selectable Analogue Direct mode that bypasses all digital processing. The M66 has separate signal paths for digital and analogue sources, and separate power supplies for the digital and analogue sections, so that analogue signals are unaffected by digital interference when the Analogue Direct mode is engaged. Users can even disable the M66’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth circuitry to minimize RF interference.

With its full suite of analogue and digital inputs, the M66 can accommodate all user source components. For vinyl enthusiasts, there’s an ultra-low-noise MM/MC phono stage with precise RIAA equalization, high overload margins, and an innovative circuit that removes infrasonic noise without compromising bass response. For TV and movie viewing, the M66 has an HDMI eARC interface for connection to an HDTV. In addition, the M66 has two coaxial and two optical S/PDIF inputs, an AES/EBU balanced digital input, two sets of RCA analogue inputs, and one pair of XLR balanced inputs.