T744 NAD Amplifier Black

T744 can rightly be considered the heir to the previous one, the 733rd model gained prominence in theatrical circles and favorable reviews from the trade press. Yes, the new receivers have the same architecture and similar functional features, but almost all of its components – the signal processor, decoders, digital-to-analog converters, and, of course, power amplifiers – have been dramatically improved. The main goal of modernization was the reduction of distortion and noise that inevitably arise in the conversion and processing of audio signals.

Much attention is paid to the layout of the unit and the optimization of internal connections. In the center of the case are two long teploootvoda, to which are attached the output transistors. So power amplifier this receiver: a) analogue, ie no pulse, and b) collected on discrete elements, rather than chips. Both in our time can be considered a big plus. In addition, it applies proprietary technology NAD Soft Clipping, reducing visibility distortion when listening at maximum volume. Profiles heatsink form a channel through which computer cooler blows air outwardly. Ventilation is activated when a certain temperature inside the cabinet and runs quietly.

Almost the entire left side takes power transformer, it also accounts for about 3/4 the weight of the receiver. Digital path and block away from tuner assigned analog circuits. Internal connections are really minimized.

On the architecture model T744 is conservative enough – there is no auto-calibration, input/output HDMI, built-in scalers and scan converters, and a list of supported standards surround limited basic versions of Dolby Digital, DTS and Dolby Pro Logic II. You can look at it from the other side – why pay for something that may never come in handy? And if we talk about HDTV, then this receiver supports the resolution on the component terminals.

Carefully designed ergonomics. On the front panel, in addition to multi-line display, derived operational RCA connectors and buttons are the main modes. Among them – the management of the tuner, the choice of the standard “environment” and stepped tone controls for bass and treble in 1 dB steps.

More complex settings are made using the remote HTR-2 under an informational support of the OSD. Control after appropriate training is able to manage all other home theater components – CD and DVD-player, cable tuner, amplifier, and even a tape deck. It is also possible to record a macro, ie sequence of several operations.

Options menu in the main standard, but there are a few exclusive modes, created by experts NAD. First of all, the ability to work with any acoustic composition with mixing signal from the unused channels. For example, in the absence of a center speaker dialogues are distributed between the front speakers, and a phase shift due to create the illusion that the sound is just out of the middle. Depending on the distance between the fronts of regulated width of the central channel, and in the foreground mode Panorama duplicated rear speakers. With the expansion of stereo to 5 channels, you can set the dynamic range of the conversion to keep a natural balance between. Very interesting and organized Down mix on the telephone outlet, creating the illusion of three-dimensional picture in the most ordinary headphones.

Decoders in the T744 work correctly. On the good acoustics clearly audible difference between Dolby Digital and DTS. In the Enhanced Stereo digital processing almost non-existent, and this is one of the most complex transformations. But let us down a few speakers – it’s a bit squeezed, at peak levels when working all channels noticeable compression. Apparently, the available power supply is not too large.

When playing in stereo device is clearly spreading its wings to create a realistic picture with adequate dynamic contrasts. At high levels of subjective tonal balance shifts slightly upwards, which may be associated with an increase in high-frequency harmonics. However, such is the effect on the volume when analyzing sound already quite difficult.

Tuner sensitive adjusted accurately and almost no distortion.

In general, it is felt that the device is designed to sound – there is nothing superfluous, and that is done with the mind.