About the NAD Masters Series M23

Robust stereo power
Robust stereo power
The NAD Masters Series M23 is a superior option for setting up a high-performance two-channel sound system. It delivers 200 watts x 2 at 8 ohms and an impressive 700 watts into a single channel in bridged mode. It's 4-ohm-stable, so it can handle even demanding, power-hungry speakers.
Innovative Class D amplifier technology
This amp pushes Class D amplification performance to new limits thanks to HybridDigital Purifi Eigentakt™ technology. It helps the amp maintain even frequency response into lower impedance loads and minimizes the occurrence of digital clipping. This advanced design offers robust power output and accurate sound with minimal distortion, without the excess weight and cost associated with more traditional linear power supplies and Class AB output stages.
Convenient connections
The M23 offers individual unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR inputs for each channel, for making solid connections to a quality NAD preamp. There's 12-volt trigger input for remote turn-on, so your whole system can power up with a single click.
Product highlights:
- 200 watts per channel into 8 ohms (20-20,000 Hz) at 0.005% THD
- 380 watts into 4 ohms
- 700 watts x 1 in bridged mode
- 4-ohm stable for use with a wide range of speakers
- innovative HybridDigital Purifi Eigentakt™ technology offers benchmark Class D amplification
- three-position gain switch on back panel (low, mid, and high)
- frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz (±3dB)
- signal-to-noise ratio: 127 dB
- standby mode engages after 30 minutes without input
- detachable power cord
Connections:
- 2 balanced XLR inputs (one per channel)
- 2 unbalanced RCA preamp inputs (one per channel)
- two pairs of speaker binding post outputs
- 12-volt trigger input
Dimensions and warranty:
- 17-1/8"W x 5-1/8"H x 17-5/8"D
- weight: 23.1 lbs.
- warranty: 3 years
- MFR # M23
What's in the box:
NAD Masters Series M23 owner's manual
- Stereo power amplifier
- 68" AC power cord
- 4 Magnetic feet
- Cleaning cloth
- Quick Setup Guide
- Warranty Card
Reviews (6)
Customer reviews for NAD Masters Series M23
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More details on the NAD Masters Series M23

Features & specs
General | ||
---|---|---|
Number of Channels | 2 | |
Power Output per Channel (8 ohms) | 200 | |
Power Output per Channel (6 ohms) | --- | |
Power Output per Channel (4 ohms) | 380 | |
Frequency Bandwidth | 20-20k | |
THD | 0.005% | |
Minimum Impedance | 4 | |
Bridged Power per Channel | 700 watts | |
Speaker Outputs | 2 | |
THX Certification | No | |
Width (inches) | 17-1/8 | |
Height (inches) | 5-1/8 | |
Depth (inches) | 17-5/8 | |
Weight | 23.1 pounds | |
Parts Warranty | 3 Years | |
Labor Warranty | 3 Years | |
Inputs & Outputs | ||
Number of Inputs | 2 | |
Input Type | XLR, RCA | |
Removable Power Cord | IEC 3-prong | |
Level Controls | Yes | |
Speaker Connectors | Binding Post |
Product Research
Features
Hybrid Digital Purifi Eigentakt Amplifier Technology: The Master Series M23 uses Eigentakt amplifier technology, manufactured by NAD in license from Purifi. This new technology adds another level of precision by taking into account previously unknown effects of the output filter in the feedback loop and further refinement of the self-oscillating Class D technology as used by previous NAD Hybrid Digital designs. The result is a performance level that approaches the theoretical limit in measured performance, be it at whispering levels or at full power.
- Low-Impedance: In common with the previous generations of NAD Hybrid Digital technology, but unlike most class D amplifier designs, the M23 is impervious to the loudspeaker load it is presented with, maintaining the same wide and even bandwidth response regardless of the speaker's impedance and at the same time providing high current capability. The continuous 200W into 8 ohms or 380W into 4 ohms on tap for both channels driven at the same time and 700W dynamic power into 8 ohms is testament to this.
- Stable Design: Inherent to the Eigentakt technology is its very analog-like behaviour in the unlikely event the amplifier is driven into clipping. Whereas many class D designs can become unstable, Eigentakt behaves in a way similar to the benign way of clipping with instant recovery of well executed traditional class A/B amplifiers
Amplifier Modes: The NAD Master Series M23 offers 2 amplifiers modes - Stereo Mode and Bridge Mode. Make sure to review the manual for proper wiring and hookup for each amplifier mode.
- Stereo Mode: Stereo Mode allows you to connect a single pair of 8 ohm to 4 ohm loudspeakers. The power amp delivers 200 watts per 8 ohm speaker or 380 watts per 4 ohm speaker.
- Bridge Mode: Bridge mode allows the amplifierto power a single 8 ohm loudspeaker. The amplifier will see a 4 ohm load when bridging a 8 ohm loudspeaker. The M23's output power will increase when set to Bridge Mode and produce approximately 700 watts per one channel. This mode allows the M23 to be used as part of a high power stereo or home theater system with additional amplifiers (sold separately) powering the other channels.
Notes: During Bridge Mode, make sure to set the unit's Bridge Mode switch to the "On" position. Then, connect the speaker to the rear-panel terminals of the M23 marked "Speaker Right+" and "Speaker Left+" ensuring that "Speaker Right+" is connected to the "Negative (-)" terminal of your speaker and "Speaker Left+ is connected to the speaker's "Positive (+)" terminal. Connect your playback source to the Left stereo RCA input sockets of the M23 only. Do not connect anything to the Right stereo RCA input socket when Bridge Mode is selected.
Balanced & Unblanced Analog Audio Inputs: The NAD Master Series M23 can accept both balanced (XLR) and single-ended (RCA) inputs. It features one pair of XLR inputs and one pair of RCA inputs. Balanced XLR connectivity is the same efficient audio interface used by studios to provide the highest level of signal integrity with the lowest noise floor. The Balanced XLR inputs allow long cable runs without noise pickup or signal loss; all you get is awesome sound without the possibility of noise pickup or interference.
- Auto-Sensing: The Auto Sense feature instantaneously turns the M23 to operating mode from standby mode, if it senses input signal (minimum 20mV RMS input) applied to either the balanced XLR or unbalanced RCA inputs.
- Gain Level: The Gain Level adjustment allows the source to be played back at the same volume level so you don't need to adjust the volume every time you change to a new source. The Gain of the M23 can be set to any of the following - Low (29dB), Medium (24dB), or High (19dB).
Notes:
- You can only make one type of connection (XLR or RCA) per input channel. There is a switch for each Left & Right channel that allows you to choose between XLR or RCA.
- Always power down M23 and other components in the system before connecting or disconnecting anything to the balanced XLR audio input jacks.
Binding Post Speaker Terminals: The Master Series M23 power amplifier features a set of high-quality, gold-plated, color-coded binding posts for speaker connection. These heavy-duty binding posts will accept bare wire (16-10AWG), pin-connectors, and banana plugs (single only). The gold-plated terminals provide optimum sound transmission and excellent resistance to corrosion. You can connect a single pair of 8 ohm to 4 ohm loudspeakers in Stereo mode, or connect a single 8 ohm loudspeaker in Bridged mode.
12V Trigger In: The +12V Trigger input (3.5mm) allows the M23 to be switched remotely from standby mode to "On" and vice-versa by connected preamplifier, AV processor, etc. The controlling device must be equipped with a 12V trigger output (3.5mm) to use this feature.
Detachable AC Power Cord: The NAD Master Series M23 comes with a 68" detachable IEC 3-prong AC power cord that will need to be plugged into an AC power outlet, surge protector, or line conditioner.
Auto Standby: The NAD M23 can be setup to automatically go to standby mode if there is no active source input within 30 minutes. Auto standby mode can be enabled or disabled.
Protect Mode: The NAD M23 will enter protect mode if it senses a short circuit or excessive heat build-up. The amplifier's front-mounted protection lights will turn on if the unit goes into protect. If the M23 goes into protect, you should immediately press the standby button, turn of the power switch, and unplug the AC power cord.
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Customer Q&A
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Replaced an Arcam amplifier with this. Amazing sound quality. Good separation and I'm hearing instruments I have not heard before on my fav soundtracks. Very satisfied with the NAD M23. Using also NAD C678 DAQ as preamp and driving B&W 702 S2. Cleanest sound you can get.
Nazaad from Conroe, TX