NAD M10 vs Marantz Model 30

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

If you’re worried about the Sprout filling that room, you should wait and try it first. 100w is plenty...same as the M30. I have a Sprout too, and the thing can produce huge sound when needed...and with excellent detail. As dekay mentioned, I would be looking at speakers first if it’s the size of the room that concerns you. What does she currently use?

depends on how finicky you are about sound quality and what speakers/setup you are going with

the nad m series have a wonderful slew of features and cool form factor but i have always found the sound, based on class d modules, just ok, and not great by any means

getting a good class a/b amplifier (marantz or otherwise) or one of the ganfet ones, will do better sound for sure, but versus nad, you may give up some features and conveniences

How about the NAD M10 V2?

All the best,
Nonoise

The Marantz 30N is class D. 

Marantz’s Model 30 integrated amplifier (€3199, reviewed here) was a Class D amplifier (with MM/MC phono pre-amplification) that introduced long-time Marantz fans to the Japanese manufacturer’s new design aesthetic. It’s a look that has been carried over to Marantz’s latest creation, the Model 40n super-integrated amplifier, to which we ‘just add loudspeakers’.

The Marantz 30N is class D.

ah yes, i forgot marantz went all class d just before ken ishiwata left

well if it’s gotta be a marantz amp, i would personally go for this one over the 30n - at least k-i voiced it...

https://www.musicdirect.com/integrated-amp/Marantz-PM-KI-RUBY-Reference-Integrated-Amplifier

that said, i would do a hegel integrated (or even an older primare i-30) long before either a nad or a marantz

I have heard the Model 30 and it doesn't sound like Class D at all.  

Thanks for the help guys.  I'm definitely going to try the Sprout before deciding on what's next.  It is a Sprout 100 fwiw.

The Sprout is going to be given to my daughter after college in a couple of years so I'm still in the market for a replacement even if the Sprout is suitable.  I'm not in a rush though hence my question.

I am obviously interested in good sound, but not looking for reference quality.  This is the living room rig that's managed mostly by my wife and her Bluetooth link.  She wants it simple.  It needs to have mm phono.

Speakers are likely going to stay as Decwares ERRx radials.  She loves the sound and I'll augment them with small dual subs too help fill the room.  Volume will never exceed 85db, ever.  That volume level will be rare.

I hope this helps some.  I appreciate the advice.   I've heard the NAD but not the Marantz.  If there are any other all in one at the sub 4-5k mark please lmk.  Thanks.

Brad

Oh, and it is the NAD M10v2 that I'm considering. Not the V1.  

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

Personally purchased the NAD M10 V2 couple weeks back. I went from a Simaudio Class A/B to Diavelet 140 to this. At the fraction of the cost it meets everything I need to meet my downsize goal. Speakers Dali Epicon 2 in small room.