Audio Video News

Power Amplifiers and Preamp/Processors

NAD C 658 Network Audio Player/Preamplifier: $1,649

One of Sound & Vision’s 2019 Top Pick of the Year finalists in audio separates and integrated amps, the C 658 is a well-rounded streaming preamp that delivers first-rate sound from hi-res sources without leaving your analog gear behind. It facilitates streaming from Tidal and other high-quality services, including those that support MQA processing, and puts a wealth of connection options at your fingertips — from HDMI to phono. The C 658 is further equipped with the exceptional Dirac Live automated room-correction system and gives you the choice of using NAD’s app or a conventional remote for control. All this and more for a fair price.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Great sound quality
Onboard Dirac Live room correction
Well-designed control app
Minus
Overly busy remote control

Full Review Here (posted Feb. 5, 2020)

AudioControl Avalon G4 Four-Channel Amplifier: $2,200

The Avalon G4, a 2019 Top Pick of the Year finalist in audio separates, makes it easy to expand the power capabilities of an existing system to meet Dolby Atmos or DTS:X immersive surround requirements by adding four 230-watt channels so you don’t have to junk any gear. But the G4 is flexible enough to satisfy other applications as well. Use its four channels to power speakers in a second room, or bridge it to create a 2 x 800-watt stereo powerhouse that can be pressed into action with balanced or unbalanced speaker connections. Regardless of how it’s deployed, the G4 is a superb performer that will not disappoint. It’s even backed by a generous five-year warranty.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Solid performance
Flexible 4-, 3-, or 2-channel setup
Five-year warranty
Minus
Intrusive rear-panel lighting

Full Review Here (posted Feb. 26, 2020)

NAD M17 V2 Surround Preamp/Processor: $6,000

Audiophiles looking for a home theater hub with exceptional flexibility and outstanding sound quality will want to give the M17 V2 a long hard look. A member of NAD’s prestigious Masters series and our 2019 Top Pick of the Year in audio separates, the modular preamp boasts Dirac Live automated room correction and accommodates Dolby Atmos or DTS:X surround sound layouts with up to 7.1.4 channels. The M17 also supports hi-res multiroom streaming via the BluOS music management platform developed by sister brand Bluesound and comes highly recommended by veteran reviewer Tom Norton. Available with free shipping through crutchfield.com.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Exceptional flexibility
First-rate build quality
Superb sound

Minus
Complex ergonomics
Inadequate owner's manual

Full Review Here (posted May 15, 2019)

Click here to peruse all of Sound & Vision’s 2019 Top Picks of the Year.

To browse all Sound & Vision-recommended AV gear, broken out by category, visit our Top Picks page.