NAD Unwraps Its New T 778 AVR and CI 8-120 DSP Amp at CEDIA 2019

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(September 9, 2019) NAD Electronics has unleashed a brand-new 9-channel AV receiver design. Designated as the T 778 ($2,999), it now stands as the company’s flagship AVR model. According to NAD, the receiver’s amp section is graced by improved efficiency thanks to tweaks to the company’s patent Hybrid Digital technology. It’s rated to deliver a beefy 9 x 100 watts per channel FTC (9 x 80w FDP) while possessing the ability to decode up to 7.1.4 channels of Dolby Atmos immersive sound. The front side of the unit features a gorgeous TFT touch display, and the back is loaded with impressive input connectivity and NAD’s modular design for future tech upgrades.

“The T 778 packages that sound quality with the most compelling digital technologies such as BluOS, MQA, Bluetooth aptX HD, and Dirac Live in a user-friendly format.” commented Greg Stidsen, NAD’s Chief Technology Officer. “NAD firmly believes that there are many people for whom music will always come first. With NAD’s reputation for high value/high performance, it was apparent that the T 778 would have to please the most demanding Audiophiles and Videophiles. MDC then helps protect their investment for years to come.”

The CI 8-120 DSP ($2,999) is a powerful amplifier solution designed for distributed audio systems. Its onboard amplification offers access to 8 x 120 watts per channel (8 ohm) with bridged output rated at 4 x 200 watts. The amp’s slimline 1U design makes it easy to integrate into rack systems, and web-based controls allow for custom integrators to remotely access features such as DSP calibration, IP control, and diagnostics.

For more information, read the full press releases from Lenbrook (below).



NAD Previews T 778 Reference AVR
CEDIA Expo, Denver Colorado, September 9, 2019– NAD Electronics, the highly regarded manufacturer of high-performance audio/video components, previewed their new 9 channel flagship AVR here, the T 778. Well known for their high value/ high performance reputation in the AVR category, NAD’s newest reference model builds on that legacy with an expansion of their unwavering philosophy of real-world performance, simplicity of operation, and future upgradeability. The T 778 will be available this November at a MSRP of $2999 U.S.

The T 778 features the latest developments in NAD’s Hybrid Digital technology to create 9 high current/high power channels of amplification with improved efficiency. Designed with NAD’s full disclosure approach to power ratings, the NAD AVR conservatively delivers 9 X 100W FTC and 9 x 80W FDP, all channels driven at rated distortion. For flexibility, the amp channels are configurable to be used for surround or second zone audio. The silent black background and explosive dynamics afforded by this amplifier technology adds lifelike realism, drama and excitement to all your music and movies.

A low profile 3U rack-mount chassis and TFT touch display combine with certified driver support for all major control systems to make the T 778 the perfect choice for advanced custom home theatres. The T 778 is second-to-none in terms of flexibility and up-to-the-minute digital technology.

  • 9 channels of NAD’s latest Hybrid Digital Amplifier Technology
  • New touch screen and improved ergonomics for user-friendly operation
  • 4K UHD video pass-through
  • High-Res BluOS enabled Network Streaming
  • Two-Way Bluetooth aptX HD
  • Dirac Live Room Correction
  • DirectDigital DAC- ESS Saber DAC with MQA Decoding MQA decoding available on all digital inputs
  • AirPlay2
  • MDC (Modular Design Construction) offers ability to upgrade to future digital formats as they become available. Two MDC slots provided.
  • CI friendly- RS232 Serial Control Port. Trigger In/Out.
  • IR In with learning function

NAD Combines Smart CI Solutions with Audiophile Performance in CI 8-120 DSP Amplifier for Distributed Audio
CEDIA Expo, Denver Colorado, September 9, 2019
– NAD Electronics, the highly regarded manufacturer of high-performance audio/video components, announced an all-new advanced amplifier targeted squarely at high performance distributed audio systems. Featured here at CEDIA, the CI 8-120 DSP ($2999 U.S. MSRP) delivers 8 x 120 watts per channel with unique features and will be available in November.

While the CI 8-120 will deliver a conservative 8 x 120 watts per channel @ 8 ohm, it is also bridgeable to 4 x 200 watts per channel @ 8 ohm. IHF Dynamic Power in bridged mode is 4 x 350 watts per channel @ 4 ohm. The hybrid digital amplifier platform delivers stable and efficient power with high current capability, all in a slim 1U rack space. To make this level of performance possible, the CI 8-120 DSP uses a customized version of the proven Hypex UcD output stage. This allows for massive power with extremely low distortion and noise in the audible range. Every detail of this design has been carefully executed to wring out every last drop of performance. Designed to deal with the demands of the CI world, it was made to handle long cable runs and difficult speaker loads.

Network Accessible Features
NAD’s newest generation of distribution amplifiers will offer the brand’s signature sonic performance along with a host of technological features demanded by today’s custom integration market. For example, the CI 8-120 DSP allows installers to program and control a variety of functions which can be accessed through a web browser. The custom web UI can manage DSP calibration and IP control as well as offer several helpful diagnostic features. Once the installer has accessed the unit from within the network, the amplifier can be set up, calibrated, as well as reboot, factory reset, restore custom settings, and update firmware.

  • 8 Channels X 120 Watts @ 8 Ohms
  • Bridgeable to 4 Channels X 200 Watts @ 8 Ohms
  • Renowned NAD sonic signature
  • 1U Rack Height- saves valuable rack space
  • Platform accessed through IP control
  • Custom web app manages DSP calibration, IP control and more
  • Effectively handles long cable runs and difficult speaker loads
  • Dual global Inputs/Outputs
  • 0.5W Standby Mode, 3W Network Standby
  • 12V Trigger In; IR In/Out
  • Auto Sense Turn-on
  • Universal AC Power Supply
 
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Todd Anderson

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This receiver is now shipping, as announced by NAD on February 10, 2020. It's being showcased this week at ISE 2020.
 

JStewart

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Making a 1st rate processor at that price point may have been a better idea. A $3k AVR with 80wpc (honest rating or not, great specs on the hypex amp modules or not) will be a tough sell IMHO.
 

JStewart

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I stand corrected. From NADs website:

Amplifier
  • FTC

  • 8 Ohms
  • 140W (21.5dBW)
  • 4 Ohms
  • 170W (22.3dBW)
  • Full Disclosure Power (all channels driven simultaneously at full bandwidth at rated distortion)
  • 9 x 80W
IIRC FTC refers to 2 channels driven. This would then put this AVR on par with Yamaha, Denon/Marantz offerings from a price/power standpoint.

Noticed two subwoofer pre-amp outputs but no mention of Dirac Bass Management planned implementation.

Still wonder about a processor only from NAD with XLR out at this price point with Dirac, that works bug free. Seems like the first manufacturer to crack the code on that wins. Or maybe NAD could publish the distortion, noise, and voltage from the pre-amp outputs for anyone considering to use this with an outboard amp.
 
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