pierreb
07-02-2007, 08:11 AM
Courtesy of AVS Forum:
<i>New Technology and Key Feature Content
Modular Design
It is very challenging to maintain a competitive technology position in
this fast moving AV world. Constant speculation on evolving technologies
has created consumer/dealer expectations that very often cannot be im-
mediately satisfied. The truth is - AV technology is a fast moving target,
but rumors surrounding the imminent availability of a new technology
moves faster than the speed of electrons. To accelerate our market deliv-
ery of essential and validated feature content we have developed a new
modular platform with the introduction of the 5 Series. This new strategic
direction will now allow us to substantially improve our time-to-market
by appreciably reducing our product development cycle.
All the input circuitry is now contained on 5 easily removable plug-in
cards:
1. Digital Audio and HDMI
2. Component Video
3. Analog Video
4. Analog Audio (2 Channel)
5. Analog Audio (Multi-channel)
Although this construction process is more costly to implement, it offers several tactical
advantages:
* Speed to market for new critical technologies
* The potential for retro-feature upgrades on prior models
* Greatly simplified field serviceability
HDMI and Format Conversion
We have secured the latest version of V1.3 HDMI technology from Analog Devices.
All input resolutions (480i, 576i, 720p, 1080i and 1080p) are supported at the output
with cross conversion of analog formats between Composite, S-Video and Component.
Further, all existing analog inputs are also available for up-conversion to HDMI output.
Please be aware that HDMI inputs are prohibited from "down-converting" to analog sig-
nals due to HDCP restrictions. Output resolution always matches input resolution - per-
fectly.
With respect to adjunct video processing, we have decided to exclude "format conver-
sion" in order to sustain the maximum video performance that exists from the source.
This means that we only change formats, and pass the native resolution without adding
any of the "conversion artifacts" generated by this scheme of signal processing.
While onboard video processing is considered a popular feature by some of our competi-
tors, please consider that it is just as likely that you will end up with an inferior picture
because a digital processor is substituting the missing pixels with "virtual guesses" rath-
er than actual data. Additionally, reprocessing already processed video can cause obvi-
ous picture distortion. Finally, many if not all fixed pixel displays in the market already
provide a scaling solution engineered specifically for the native resolution of their prod-
uct.
Audyssey MultEQ XT and Audyssey MultEQ XT Pro PC application
Audyssey MultEQ XT
Combines a consumer friendly "auto setup" function for speaker installations up to 7.1
with a digital "room correction" algorithm to determine accurate speaker calibration. A
supplied microphone is employed in combination with a special set of test tones to au-
tomatically set speaker configuration, subwoofer crossover frequency, speaker level and
distance. The user interface has a set-up `wizard' to easily guide the user through the
speaker calibration process.
The Audyssey room correction technology employs multiple microphone positions (with a
maximum of 8 measurement readings permitted) and an exclusive (and patented) al-
gorithm to create a family sized "sweet zone" where room reflections (standing waves)
are reduced or eliminated. NAD has worked in partnership with Audyssey to develop a
unique "NAD Target Curve". The target curve represents the final frequency/time re-
sponse at the listening position(s).
Audyssey MultEQ XT Pro PC application
This is a more advanced version of the Audyssey technology platform requiring an au-
thorized and trained dealer to install. Along with the performance advantages described
above; this application allows for finer precision of "acoustic room mapping".
Pro PC Features
* More powerful equalization filters
* Advanced subwoofer crossover algorithm
* Up to 32 measurement positions possible
* Calibrated Audyssey Installer Kit
* Verified Customer Certificate detailing test results
NAD iPod Dock
Our "Next Generation" Home Theater models (T785 or T775 and the T175 Pre-Pro) will
include a proprietary data jack specifically designed to control the iPod. Adding NAD's
iPod Dock accessory will allow the iPod's meta-data to be displayed on the OSD and be
controlled using the NAD remote control. Analog audio and video connections with iPod
recharging capability are also featured in our version of iPod's home base.
Improved User Interface
We have made vast improvements over the already "best in class" UIF of the T7x3
AVR's. Unprecedented flexibility and simplicity add up to true ease-of-use. 10 inputs
(including Tuner which has 3 options) can be configured with any combination of audio
and video, analog and digital sources, and renamed to match the source. Unused in-
puts can be hidden to avoid the confusion of the "empty" input. Navigation is fast and
crisp, and there are many choices for how the status information is displayed. This is
true "mass customization" - every individual will have a unique simple setup!
4 Zone Capability
In addition to the main zone and second AV zone, we have added the flexibility to
change the Tape Outputs to be third and fourth Audio Zones with independent source
and volume capability. There is complete flexibility in setting up these outputs.
Amplifier Channel Assign-ability
The Back Surround amplifier channels can be reassigned to Zone 2, 3, or 4, or redirect-
ed to the Front Left and Right channels to allow bi-amplification of the front speakers.
This is easily accomplished in the User Interface.
More Power, Less Distortion
A new circuit layout with design direction from BEE (Bjorn Erik Edvardsen) has resulted
in more efficiency and less distortion than any previous NAD AVR offering. Glass ep-
oxy PCBs, Surface Mount Devices and lead-free solder all contribute to this exceptional
performance.
New Fan Circuit
Similar to the Masters Series M25 circuit, the new AVRs use fans that are thermostati-
cally controlled but are silenced during quiet scenes or pianissimo passages. Addition-
ally, these fans are now rubber isolated and are mounted on a bottom accessible panel.
In combination with NAD's famous `wave pattern' heat sinks these AVR's, when prop-
erly installed, can run for hours under the most severe operating conditions. Our com-
petitors can barely last a few minutes under the same operating conditions!
Professional Grade Speaker Connections
The redesigned "5 way" binding posts now accommodate heavy gauge cables, audio-
phile banana and spade lugs.</i>
<i>New Technology and Key Feature Content
Modular Design
It is very challenging to maintain a competitive technology position in
this fast moving AV world. Constant speculation on evolving technologies
has created consumer/dealer expectations that very often cannot be im-
mediately satisfied. The truth is - AV technology is a fast moving target,
but rumors surrounding the imminent availability of a new technology
moves faster than the speed of electrons. To accelerate our market deliv-
ery of essential and validated feature content we have developed a new
modular platform with the introduction of the 5 Series. This new strategic
direction will now allow us to substantially improve our time-to-market
by appreciably reducing our product development cycle.
All the input circuitry is now contained on 5 easily removable plug-in
cards:
1. Digital Audio and HDMI
2. Component Video
3. Analog Video
4. Analog Audio (2 Channel)
5. Analog Audio (Multi-channel)
Although this construction process is more costly to implement, it offers several tactical
advantages:
* Speed to market for new critical technologies
* The potential for retro-feature upgrades on prior models
* Greatly simplified field serviceability
HDMI and Format Conversion
We have secured the latest version of V1.3 HDMI technology from Analog Devices.
All input resolutions (480i, 576i, 720p, 1080i and 1080p) are supported at the output
with cross conversion of analog formats between Composite, S-Video and Component.
Further, all existing analog inputs are also available for up-conversion to HDMI output.
Please be aware that HDMI inputs are prohibited from "down-converting" to analog sig-
nals due to HDCP restrictions. Output resolution always matches input resolution - per-
fectly.
With respect to adjunct video processing, we have decided to exclude "format conver-
sion" in order to sustain the maximum video performance that exists from the source.
This means that we only change formats, and pass the native resolution without adding
any of the "conversion artifacts" generated by this scheme of signal processing.
While onboard video processing is considered a popular feature by some of our competi-
tors, please consider that it is just as likely that you will end up with an inferior picture
because a digital processor is substituting the missing pixels with "virtual guesses" rath-
er than actual data. Additionally, reprocessing already processed video can cause obvi-
ous picture distortion. Finally, many if not all fixed pixel displays in the market already
provide a scaling solution engineered specifically for the native resolution of their prod-
uct.
Audyssey MultEQ XT and Audyssey MultEQ XT Pro PC application
Audyssey MultEQ XT
Combines a consumer friendly "auto setup" function for speaker installations up to 7.1
with a digital "room correction" algorithm to determine accurate speaker calibration. A
supplied microphone is employed in combination with a special set of test tones to au-
tomatically set speaker configuration, subwoofer crossover frequency, speaker level and
distance. The user interface has a set-up `wizard' to easily guide the user through the
speaker calibration process.
The Audyssey room correction technology employs multiple microphone positions (with a
maximum of 8 measurement readings permitted) and an exclusive (and patented) al-
gorithm to create a family sized "sweet zone" where room reflections (standing waves)
are reduced or eliminated. NAD has worked in partnership with Audyssey to develop a
unique "NAD Target Curve". The target curve represents the final frequency/time re-
sponse at the listening position(s).
Audyssey MultEQ XT Pro PC application
This is a more advanced version of the Audyssey technology platform requiring an au-
thorized and trained dealer to install. Along with the performance advantages described
above; this application allows for finer precision of "acoustic room mapping".
Pro PC Features
* More powerful equalization filters
* Advanced subwoofer crossover algorithm
* Up to 32 measurement positions possible
* Calibrated Audyssey Installer Kit
* Verified Customer Certificate detailing test results
NAD iPod Dock
Our "Next Generation" Home Theater models (T785 or T775 and the T175 Pre-Pro) will
include a proprietary data jack specifically designed to control the iPod. Adding NAD's
iPod Dock accessory will allow the iPod's meta-data to be displayed on the OSD and be
controlled using the NAD remote control. Analog audio and video connections with iPod
recharging capability are also featured in our version of iPod's home base.
Improved User Interface
We have made vast improvements over the already "best in class" UIF of the T7x3
AVR's. Unprecedented flexibility and simplicity add up to true ease-of-use. 10 inputs
(including Tuner which has 3 options) can be configured with any combination of audio
and video, analog and digital sources, and renamed to match the source. Unused in-
puts can be hidden to avoid the confusion of the "empty" input. Navigation is fast and
crisp, and there are many choices for how the status information is displayed. This is
true "mass customization" - every individual will have a unique simple setup!
4 Zone Capability
In addition to the main zone and second AV zone, we have added the flexibility to
change the Tape Outputs to be third and fourth Audio Zones with independent source
and volume capability. There is complete flexibility in setting up these outputs.
Amplifier Channel Assign-ability
The Back Surround amplifier channels can be reassigned to Zone 2, 3, or 4, or redirect-
ed to the Front Left and Right channels to allow bi-amplification of the front speakers.
This is easily accomplished in the User Interface.
More Power, Less Distortion
A new circuit layout with design direction from BEE (Bjorn Erik Edvardsen) has resulted
in more efficiency and less distortion than any previous NAD AVR offering. Glass ep-
oxy PCBs, Surface Mount Devices and lead-free solder all contribute to this exceptional
performance.
New Fan Circuit
Similar to the Masters Series M25 circuit, the new AVRs use fans that are thermostati-
cally controlled but are silenced during quiet scenes or pianissimo passages. Addition-
ally, these fans are now rubber isolated and are mounted on a bottom accessible panel.
In combination with NAD's famous `wave pattern' heat sinks these AVR's, when prop-
erly installed, can run for hours under the most severe operating conditions. Our com-
petitors can barely last a few minutes under the same operating conditions!
Professional Grade Speaker Connections
The redesigned "5 way" binding posts now accommodate heavy gauge cables, audio-
phile banana and spade lugs.</i>