The Masters Series – M5 CD/SACD Player

SUPER AUDIO FOR ALL CD’s

The Super Audio Compact Disc offers a significant improvement in sonic performance when compared with a standard CD. SACD uses a fundamentally different approach to transferring the analog musical waveform into the digital domain for storage on the disc. This is called Direct Stream Digital, and is widely considered to be a fundamentally better approach to digital encoding. This requires very high speed processing that simply wasn’t available at the birth of the CD format. This high data rate process avoids the quantization errors inherent in the Pulse Code Modulation process used for the traditional CD and DVD. Extended high frequency response, enhanced detail and a more analog-like sound quality are often stated improvements of SACD over CD.

Many of us still have extensive CD collections, however, and luckily the M5 has sophisticated circuitry designed to also get the best possible sound quality from your existing CD recordings. In addition, the M5 includes an HDCD decoder which can increase the dynamic range of CD by 6dB with specially encoded and widely available CDs. CDR and CDRW recordable discs are fully supported, and even MP3 and WMA can be played on the M5 CD/SACD Player offering many hours of playback from a single disc.

But the SACD format also offers the possibility of 5.1 surround sound playback, and the M5 is equipped to take full advantage of these exciting new multi-channel recordings. We have even included comprehensive bass management (redirection) for the 5.1 output. Several popular speaker configurations can be easily accessed from the front panel controls and navigated via the VFD display. A higher level of fine tuning is available via the Composite Video output using the M5’s On Screen Display. This video output is also useful for managing MP3 playback. Since we expect most M5’s to be used in music only systems, the video circuit can be switched off to afford the cleanest possible audio performance.

LUXURIOUS DESIGN

The design brief reads: “The industrial design must create a physical presence that is powerful, dynamic, and solid, yet refined and elegant”. We wanted a design that will still look fresh and new a decade from now, a design with classic proportions and understated details.

Intelligent use of aluminum extrusions, zinc castings, and heavy gauge steel results in a chassis that is as rugged as it is handsome. Innovative use of specialized coatings and plating results in a product that will retain its good looks for many, many years to come.

Since the high-density data recorded on SACD must be read with absolute accuracy, vibrations from outside or from internal sources, such as the

-Plays SACD, CD, CD-R, CD-RW

-AES/EBU balanced digital out for PCM sources

-Coax and TosLink PCM digital audio outputs

-Separate 2 channel and 5.1 channel analog outputs

-Balanced 600 Ohm Stereo Outputs

-HDCD, MP3, and WMA decoding

-Bass Management for SACD

-24 bit 192kHz DACs with DSD mode

-NAD Pure Class A Discrete Gain Modules

-Separate power supplies; switch mode for digital circuits, linear for audio circuits.

-Composite Video Output (switchable On/Off)

-RS-232 port

-IR Input

-12V Trigger Input

-Detachable AC cord

-M5 Remote Control

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NAD manual Masters Series M5 CD/SACD Player, Luxurious Design
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M5 specifications

The NAD M5 is a remarkable digital music player that reflects NAD's commitment to high-performance audio and cutting-edge technology. Designed to provide both convenience and exceptional sound quality, the M5 is part of NAD's Master Series, which is renowned for its progressive features and superior craftsmanship.

One of the standout features of the NAD M5 is its ability to handle various digital audio formats. This versatility ensures that audiophiles can enjoy their music in the highest fidelity, whether it be lossless formats like FLAC and ALAC or popular streaming formats such as MP3. With built-in support for high-resolution audio, the M5 can decode files of up to 24-bit/192 kHz, delivering an immersive listening experience with remarkable clarity and detail.

Another key characteristic of the NAD M5 is its user-friendly interface. The player features a well-designed OLED display that provides easy access to music libraries and allows users to navigate through tracks effortlessly. Furthermore, the M5 supports a range of connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and various digital outputs, making it compatible with a wide array of audio systems and devices.

The M5 also incorporates innovative streaming capabilities, offering direct access to popular music streaming services. This allows users to enjoy millions of songs with a simple touch, facilitating a seamless transition between local and streamed content. With integration for services like TIDAL and Qobuz, the M5 not only enhances convenience but also opens up a world of music discovery.

In terms of build quality, the NAD M5 is constructed from premium materials, reflecting its status as a high-end audio component. The sleek design is both elegant and practical, ensuring that it will fit seamlessly into any audio setup.

Moreover, the M5 incorporates NAD’s proprietary technologies, such as the company's unique Digital Signal Processing, which optimizes audio performance while minimizing distortion. This results in a smooth, dynamic sound signature that brings music to life, providing a rich and engaging listening experience.

In conclusion, the NAD M5 is a powerful digital music player that merges high-quality audio performance with modern convenience. Its extensive features, advanced technologies, and user-centric design make it an outstanding choice for anyone serious about music reproduction, making it a worthy investment for both casual listeners and audiophiles alike.
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