NAD Master Series M10 Streaming Amplifier Preview

BluOS refers to the network streaming and multi-room capabilities, which means the M10 is something of an integrated amplifier gone mental with added features. In fact, the M10 leans so far into the future, there is no remote control in a traditional sense. Rather, you control the M10 through the BluOS app available for smartphones, tablets, or computers.

If you are the type to never put your phone down, I guess you can rejoice that you do not have to use your free hand to pick up a remote control. You can also control the M10 via the full-color touchscreen front display. Given the front display’s functionality and the unit’s shape and dimensions, I came to think the M10 resembles nothing so much as a shoebox with a smartphone stuck on the long end.

At $2499, the M10 has some on-paper parity with the entry-level unit in Naim’s Uniti series of streaming amplifiers, the Atom. The M10 claims more than double the output of the Atom (100w vs 40w), but the tech is different. While the NAD utilizes a Class D “Hypex nCore” amplifier, the Naim uses a more traditional Class AB analog design. The M10 also differentiates itself with some room correction capabilities courtesy of Dirac, and the previously mentioned functional touch screen display, which the Atom lacks. Having both of these units in residence at the same time, I am looking forward to the inevitable comparison. Check back in shortly for a complete review of the NAD M10.