NAD+

       Author: Mike Prager Author Links: AV System Last Updated: October 1, 2026 Reading Time: 10 minutes
       Last year, I reviewed the NAD M23 amplifier (read my review), and this top-of-the-line stereo power amplifier from the NAD Masters series impressed me with its smooth and transparent sound. Now, NAD has released an updated version, the NAD M23 V2 ($4,999; available at Crutchfield). When I asked NAD about the improvements in this updated version, they replied, “The primary improvement is the replacement of the first-generation Purifi Eigentakt amplifier module with a second-generation module. This new module reduces noise and slightly improves dynamic range. Additionally, linearity and power handling are improved, especially when driving demanding loudspeakers. The NAD M23 V2 adds a 12-volt trigger output and a slight trigger delay to reduce AC inrush current.”
       Based on the published specifications, the NAD M23 V2 is virtually identical to the original. Like the original, this new amplifier’s power supply and input stages are designed by NAD, while the output modules are licensed from Purify, a leader in Class D amplifier technology. As a member of the NAD Masters series, the M23 V2 features a beautiful aluminum enclosure that perfectly complements the NAD M66 streaming DAC preamplifier (read my review) and other Masters series components. However, it’s not limited to NAD products—with its flexible gain and input options, the M23 V2 is compatible with virtually any audiophile preamplifier. Today’s question: how does the new NAD M23 V2 sound after NAD’s enhancements? Let’s find out together.
       For its price, the NAD M23 V2 delivers exceptional overall performance in terms of output power, functionality, aesthetics, and sound quality. It has sufficient power to drive most audiophile-grade speaker systems and is virtually immune to impedance fluctuations. Practical features not found in all amplifiers include selectable gain, balanced and unbalanced inputs, and a rear panel with extensive connectivity options. While its full-width enclosure may not be as refined as those from brands like Pass Labs, it is sturdy and aesthetically pleasing, significantly outperforming other products in its price range. Most importantly, the sound quality is both objectively and subjectively superb, demonstrating high clarity, precise control, and a surprisingly natural high-frequency response. For audiophiles looking to step up to a higher-end configuration, the NAD M23 V2 is undoubtedly the ideal choice, as a decade ago, it was difficult to find an amplifier of such high quality at this price. Even as an entry-level amplifier, this is a great option that will be enough to satisfy your audio system needs for a long time.
       I connected the NAD M23 V2 to my existing reference system, which includes the NAD M66 streaming DAC/preamplifier (read my review) and Janszen Valentina P8 hybrid electrostatic speakers (read my review). I disabled the SVS SB-3000 subwoofer, so this review focuses solely on the NAD M23 V2′s performance across all frequency ranges. Music was played through my own Roon server, and Dirac Live was used to eliminate the bass boom characteristic of my low-ceilinged basement studio.
       Over the months I used the NAD M23 V2, I listened to a wide variety of music, including energetic surf rock, melodic rock, jazz, pop, bluegrass, blues, and operatic vocals, symphonies and concertos, guitar solos, harpsichord, cello, violin, and piano solos, as well as a few minimalist recordings by friends. What impressed me most was that the NAD M23 V2 didn’t favor any particular genre, reproducing them all brilliantly. Particularly notable was the exceptional reproduction of vocals, both male and female—both voices sounded lively and without excessive high-frequency emphasis or harshness. Toward the end of the review, I connected two SVS SB-3000 subwoofers. As expected, the midrange remained intact, and the bass, as always, enhanced the bass response in my room, especially at the listening position.
       Bob Marley’s live performance of “No Woman, No Cry” (16/44.1, local file) is a reggae classic recorded in July 1975. I listened to it on the original M23 and was thrilled, and the M23 V2 brilliantly reproduced Marley’s vibrant voice. The late J. Gordon Holt (a pioneer of subjective audio criticism) used the “goosebump test” to evaluate sound quality, and this reproduction gave me goosebumps; Marley’s charisma was almost palpable. The soundstage was stable and realistic, creating the atmosphere of a live performance, and you could even feel the audience enthusiastically singing along. The sound of the electronic keyboards wasn’t the clearest I’ve ever heard, but I think that’s a problem with the recording itself, not the playback device. As with the original M23, I found the electric guitar playing at around 4 minutes and 10 seconds to be powerful but not harsh, and I couldn’t help but wonder what tricks the engineer used to make it so expressive. The bass was powerful and impressive. In conclusion, the M23 V2 delivers exceptionally well on this classic track.
       Immersed in the musical atmosphere of the 20th century, I performed the composition “Falling in Love with Love” from Art Blakey’s album “Straight Ahead.” Recorded in 1981 at the Keystone Korner jazz club in San Francisco, this album showcases Blakey’s mentorship of many outstanding musicians throughout his long career. He collaborated with Wynton Marsalis on this album (click here for more information), which is likely his first commercial recording. The most commendable aspects of the composition are the exceptionally well-reproduced trumpet and saxophone tones, and Blakey’s drumming is equally brilliant. The cymbals sound fantastic, without the muddy or hissing sound that can be found on some albums of the same era (and even on some newer ones); even on average equipment, the cymbals sound distorted. The pizzicato sound of the double bass and its rich, “woody” sustain are surprisingly realistic. The dynamic range is also impressive.
       A recording of Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto performed by Swedish clarinetist Martin Frost with the Amsterdam Symphony Orchestra (download file 96/24) gave me the opportunity to appreciate the sound of this well-recorded and familiar classical work through the NAD M23 V2 cartridge. In the first movement, I immediately noticed the clarity of the sound; the instruments remained distinct throughout, partly due to the exceptional clarity of the NAD M23 V2 cartridge and partly to the recording technology. The dynamic range was natural and smooth (admittedly, Mozart was not known for his dynamic range), and the timbre of the clarinet remained lively at all volume levels. High strings (violins and violas) were reproduced naturally, without harshness. Low strings (double bass and cello) demonstrated a quiet but undeniable impact. Compared to the live orchestral performances I typically listen to from the middle rows of concert halls, this recording is richer in detail and brighter in sound. This is fully reflected by the NAD M23 V2 cartridge, as it should be. In terms of sound quality and reproduction, this is a fantastic record—it seems to present no challenge to the Frost—and the M23 V2 handles it exceptionally well.
       Like other NAD Masters components, the M23 V2 boasts NAD’s highest sound quality and a superb cabinet—though somewhat more expensive, it’s reliable and durable. NAD’s extensive dealer network and the fact that its products are often considered excellent value for money make the brand highly sought after by audiophiles. For these reasons, I believe a used M23 V2 should sell faster than some niche brands and retain a high resale value.
       The following amplifiers are worth considering in this price range. These Class D amplifiers (see more details here) are particularly suitable for music lovers who, in addition to excellent sound quality, also value light weight, low power consumption, and low heat generation. Please note: the amplifier classification reflects only their production date and does not necessarily indicate a difference in sound quality.
       Orchard Audio Mono Ultra Premium amplifiers (priced at $5,199.90 per pair at the time of writing; price increase expected June 1, 2026 – see review) utilize Orchard’s proprietary GaN-FET output modules, delivering 250W or 500W continuous output power into 8 ohms or 4 ohms. Their enclosures are aesthetically pleasing but more streamlined than NAD amplifiers, blending seamlessly with speaker systems. Potential buyers should note that Orchard amplifiers have a relatively low gain (19 dB), which, while designed to reduce noise, may limit volume in some systems, especially when paired with low-output preamplifiers or less sensitive speaker systems.
       The ArgentPur DUO stereo amplifier ($5,300—read the review) also uses the Orchard Audio “Ultra” module, features silver alloy internal wiring, and an elegant aluminum enclosure. The review was written by Brian Kahn (check out his reference system); click the link to read it.
       Atma-Sphere’s Class-D mono amplifiers ($6,350 per pair; see my review) take a different approach. Designer Ralf Karsten, known for his vacuum tube amplifiers, replaced the vacuum tube amplifiers in his home audio system with GaN-FET mono amplifiers. These amplifiers feature a continuous output power of 100 watts at 8 ohms (200 watts at 4 ohms), a dedicated linear power supply, balanced and unbalanced inputs, and circuitry designed entirely by Atma-Sphere.
       Michael Zisserson tested the powerful Amped America AMP 2400 amplifier ($6,000—read the review). He concluded: “If you’re looking for extremely realistic, powerful, and neutral sound without any unnecessary frills, the AMP 2400 is definitely the best choice, unless you’re willing to spend at least three times as much.” This amplifier comes with a five-year warranty. Its Pascal chip is one of the rarest Class D amplifier chips available today, and its performance is excellent; Jeff Rowland also used it for a while.
       Since I don’t have an original NAD M23 on hand, I can’t make a direct sound quality comparison. But I can confidently say that the NAD M23 V2, like the original M23, is a stereo power amplifier with superb sound quality, as I’ve come to expect from NAD and Purifi. I’ve compared it to my Orchard Audio mono amplifier several times, but the need to change cables made it difficult to make a direct comparison. The differences between the two are difficult to accurately describe; the Orchard amplifier sometimes sounds a little more open, while the NAD M23 V2 sometimes sounds a little softer in the high frequencies. Which amp I prefer depends on the recording, and I imagine my preferences will change if I use it with different speakers or preamps. It’s truly amazing! I still don’t understand why two amps with such excellent specifications sound slightly different. Choosing from so many excellent devices is both a joy and a frustration for audiophiles.
       Many amplifiers today (for example, from Denon and German companies like T+A, as well as some smaller assemblers) use the same Purifi modules. However, in the NAD M23 V2, NAD designed its own input stage and power supply, which is perhaps one of the reasons for the M23 V2′s dynamic and captivating sound. This amplifier is another masterpiece from NAD, utilizing cutting-edge technology to create exceptional sound quality. I could easily use the NAD M23 V2 as my everyday amplifier. I highly recommend audiophiles with a budget in this price range to thoroughly test the NAD M23 V2.
       Read this article by Paul Wilson, editor of FutureAudiophile.com, to learn more about distortion and its impact on high-quality audio systems.
       Hi Mike. Thanks for mentioning ArgentPur. It’s worth noting that among all the existing GaN-FET or other Class D amplifiers, our Monobloc and DUO aren’t the only ones that use high-quality Mundorf SGO capacitors in the critical output filters for maximum soundstage clarity. They truly do significantly improve the sound in extremely high-resolution systems.
       Mike, this is a fantastic review! Digital amps have always been something I’ve wanted to try, and your review is a great introduction. You also mentioned a brand that helped many of us get started. How many of us still have NAD 3020 amps stashed away in our attics?
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