2. amps-preamps
  3. 155392-691

Beware of NAD M3 Fire Hazard

My $3k NAD M3 started shooting sparks out the top and burned the shelf that was 8" above. Luckily I was home and not sleeping or the house would have burned down. If anyone has one of these I advise them to unplug it when not in use. I took it to two different repair shops and they said it would be about $800 to just get it running and there may be board issues. They advised not to take the gamble. Anyone have any suggestions on what to do with it?
pwb

Showing 3 responses by dpac996

dpac996's avatar
dpac996
718 posts
 
The lid was off. Tampered? Depends on whose defining it, lol

dpac996's avatar
dpac996
718 posts
 
Consider sending it to the Hydraulic Press guy channel on You Tube and ask for some $$ when he makes thousands from the subscribers; People send him all kinds of stuff; Very entertaining and it’s for science.

I’ve had some equipment over the years I would have loved to send him;

I can't believe that happened to you; Did you buy it new? How freaking scary!

dpac996's avatar
dpac996
718 posts
 
I'd recommend, seriously, this time, not attempting to put resources into repairing it; When the electrolytic off-gassed and spewed its internal magic smoke, conductive fluid (electrolyte) went all over the other parts (IC's in particular) making new instantaneous conductive pathways and likely altering the nominal set points; It's any ones guess about the future reliability.

From a practical point of view, how relaxed would any of us be if the amp IS reworked? I sure as heck would not be able to enjoy music with this refurbished amp. I would be on edge...wondering when the next magic smoke makes an appearance;

It would be wonderful if NAD would pick up the tab on a proper failure analysis and next steps; 

BTW, I had an M3 in 2006 and really liked it; Very smooth and neutral; Beautiful to look at too; Impressive chassis design.

 
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