2. amps-preamps
  3. 176648-10227

NAD M10 vs Marantz Model 30

I had a history with an early NAD 3020 then a 3225PE. Both were great back in my early days of audio. Then a few years ago I bought a new/factory refurbed D7050 for my wife’s living room stereo. It was a piece of garbage that would constantly drop Bluetooth. After only a year it stopped working altogether. It has been sent back twice during the interim so I just threw it away.

 

Fast forward to now and I am looking to set up another simple system for my wife in our living room. She’s currently using a PSAudio Sprout and likes it. But our new living room is going to be 32x21 with a 14’ ceiling. I’m thinking something a bit more than the sprout might be needed.

 

I like the Marantz M30 but it’s large form factor and lesser features make me wonder if I will have better luck trying an NAD M10 with all of it’s features. Meters on the display and it’s smaller form factor are very appealing and will disappear into our decor.

 

Obviously sq is important. However, this is a system we’ll play while we’re cooking dinner or relaxing on the couch and taking in front of a fire. My reference system is going to have it’s own dedicated listening room.

 

Curious on comments and thoughts. Pros or cons? Other options other than the Naim unity?

2out2sea

Showing 2 responses by dekay

dekay's avatar
dekay
5,385 posts
 

To widen your choices you could add an outboard BT receiving unit (tiny little things) to any integrated amp.

I've seen them complete with DAC for $200, or so, but don't know much about them.

Audioengine and iFi come to mind.

This is assuming that they are of similar quality to the self contained units.

Lots of nice integrated's with MM (sans BT).

 

DeKay

dekay's avatar
dekay
5,385 posts
 

I would decide on speakers first.

I had a living room approx. that size (16' ceiling) in the late 70's and was never satisfied with the sound of my small (Rogers/Braun) speakers - even in the near-field.

I didn't have subs, but did have the add-on AB1 woofers for the Rogers.

I'm guessing the problem was the high ceiling as they worked OK in other large rooms with 8' ceilings.

Anyway, if you have the original Sprout there is the later Sprout100, plus NAD makes a few small case integrated's with BT/DAC and all that stuff ($1500-$2500, or around that new).

We now have 2 CD based mini systems (computer room and living room kitchen area) that are used for your intended purpose - so can relate.

The new spare bed/computer room setup has been getting quite a workout.

 

DeKay

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