7. SOFT CLIPPING

When an amplifier is driven beyond its specified power output it normally produces “hard clipping” or distortion of the signal. Such hard clipping, in addition to sounding unpleasant, can damage the speakers in the system. The NAD Soft Clipping circuit gently limits the output waveform, minimizing audible distortion and reducing the change of speaker damage when the amplifier is overdriven. We recommend that the Soft Clipping switch on the back panel of the S250 be left in the ON position when system is being operated at levels that might exceed the amplifier’s power capacity. The LED on the front panel indicates if Soft Clipping has been engaged.

FRONT PANEL CONTROLS

1. POWER SWITCH

Press this button to switch the amplifier on or off. The Power LED located just above the power button and Protection LED will light up. After a few seconds, the Protection LED will turn off, indicating that the amplifier is ready for use.

The S250 can also be remotely switched from On to Stand-by and vice-versa using the 12V-trigger input on the back panel. For the 12V-trigger input to work, the S250 must first be turned on by means of the Power switch, and the switch must be left in this position. Using the 12V-trigger source component, switch its 12V- trigger output to on and off. The S250’s trigger input will now follow the source component’s 12V-trigger output. Ensure that the Auto Trigger switch on the back panel is in the ON position and that the 12V-trigger input is connected properly.

NOTE: If no cable is attached to the 12-trigger input socket on the S250’s back-panel, the Power Switch will operate as normal, even if the Auto Trigger switch on the back panel is in the ON position.

2. SOFT CLIPPING LIGHTS

When the Soft Clipping circuit of the S250 is activated the indicator

LED’s on the front panel will light.

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3. PROTECTION/STAND-BY LED

The Protection LED will light up every time the amplifier is switched on. After a few seconds it will extinguish and the amplifier is ready for operation. With the 12V trigger input activated (Auto Trigger switch on back-panel set to ON position) the Protection LED will also light up to indicate Stand-by status. In this mode, the Power LED will be off.

This LED will also come on when one or more of the internal five amplifiers go into protect mode, but the other amplifiers will continue to function so it is likely you will still hear sound.

When the amplifier is switched off completely from normal operation by means of the power switch, the Protection LED will light up and will fade out in a couple of seconds.

NOTE: If you see the Protection LED light up during use, turn off the amplifier immediately. Check if all speaker wires are connected correctly and that none of the wires are damaged, causing a short circuit. Another cause may be excessive heat build-up inside the amplifier. Make sure there is adequate ventilation around the amplifier and that none of its ventilation slots, top or bottom, are blocked. After the amplifier has cooled down, it will function normally again.

In case the Protection LED remains on despite the checks mentioned above, turn the amplifier off and consult your NAD dealer.

NOTE: Looking through the S250’s top-cover you may be able to see 5 LEDs. During normal operation these will light up green. In Stand- by mode all LEDs will light up red. Whenever one of the channels goes into protection mode, the corresponding LED will also turn from green to red. If this occurs, switch the amplifier off immediately and check as indicated above for correct connection and/or heat build-up.

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NAD S250 owner manual Front Panel Controls Power Switch, Soft Clipping Lights, Protection/Stand-By Led
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S250 specifications

The NAD S250 is a cutting-edge amplifier designed to deliver high-fidelity sound while integrating seamlessly into modern home audio setups. Targeted towards audiophiles and tech enthusiasts alike, this amplifier embodies NAD’s commitment to performance, versatility, and user-friendly design.

One of the standout features of the S250 is its Class D amplification technology. This allows the amplifier to produce high power output while maintaining superior efficiency. The S250 can deliver an impressive 250 watts per channel into 4 ohms, providing ample power for driving demanding speakers, without the heat and energy waste associated with traditional Class A/B amplifiers.

The NAD S250 is also equipped with NAD's proprietary MDC (Modular Design Construction) technology. This feature allows users to upgrade their amplifier easily, ensuring longevity and adaptability in an ever-evolving audio landscape. As new technologies emerge, owners of the S250 can incorporate updates without needing to replace the entire unit, making it a future-proof investment.

Connectivity is another area where the S250 excels. It includes a variety of inputs, such as HDMI ARC, allowing for easy integration with televisions and other devices. Additionally, the amplifier supports Bluetooth streaming, making it easy to enjoy music from smartphones and tablets. With support for high-resolution audio formats, including MQA, users can experience studio-quality sound when streaming from compatible services.

The S250 also boasts NAD's advanced digital signal processing (DSP) capabilities, ensuring precise sound reproduction. This technology allows for features like room correction, enabling users to optimize their listening experience based on their unique environment. The built-in EQ options further enhance the amplifier's capabilities, catering to individual preferences.

In terms of design, the NAD S250 features a sleek and modern aesthetic, blending well with contemporary home decor. Its intuitive control interface, complete with a bright display and user-friendly remote, makes operation straightforward.

In summary, the NAD S250 is a versatile, powerful amplifier that leverages the latest in audio technology to deliver an exceptional listening experience. Its efficient Class D amplification, modular design, robust connectivity options, and advanced processing capabilities make it a strong contender for anyone looking to elevate their home audio system. Whether you are a casual listener or a dedicated audiophile, the S250 is designed to meet a wide range of audio needs while ensuring top-notch performance and future flexibility.
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