The M50.2 player is equipped with 2 TB of internal memory to store a music collection at 24 bit/192 kHz. In memory it can store its own CD digitizations and files directly downloaded from cloud services. The player plays music from CDs, streaming services, external USB devices, and devices connected via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Functionally, the model is similar to Bluesound Wault 2, but assembled at a higher quality level. Accordingly, it is ready to play audio files of various formats from external drives, make copies of CDs “on autopilot,” and play music from various cloud services. One of the differences between the M50.2 and the Vault 2 is the mode of playing tracks from a CD: while the first device must first copy the data, the more advanced device reads it in real time. The user himself decides whether to save the music or limit himself to regular listening.
The NAD M50.2 is a “software defined” product, meaning that most of the system’s functionality is determined by software rather than hardware. This means that new cloud services or audio codecs can be integrated in the future by simply changing the software code in the NAD M50.2. This software update potential means that there is software available that allows the NAD M50.2 to maintain its functionality.
Since its introduction, the original M50 has added Internet radio tuner TuneIn, Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer, iHeart Radio, Murfie, and more. We’ve also included a “direct download” option from High Res Audio from HDtracks.com and HighResAudio.com, allowing you to purchase and download new music through the BluOS App. The new NAD M50.2 uses the same software but adds some hardware features such as a new, more powerful processor and Bluetooth 4.0 with APTX for direct audio streaming from a wide range of popular devices.
The design includes the latest generation of super high-performance ARM processors with low power consumption. They have great processing power, do not heat up and do not require noisy fans. Many different digital formats are supported in hardware, including SPDIF, USB and, unusual for stereo audio, HDMI.
There is a choice of wired or wireless network connection and they use the standard IEEE 802.11 B/G/N Wi-Fi protocol. While it is possible to stream 24/96 music wirelessly, we recommend a wired connection or local storage for HD music to avoid opportunities for those laid off. The Wi-Fi capability does offer the ability to control it from your smartphone or tablet with Wi-Fi, which is a fantastic way to enjoy your music collection. The NAD M50.2 CD transport can play or copy to internal memory, and ripping is fully automatic. Using the BluOS application with a network connection to the Internet, this music management software allows you to extract metadata and cover art, without the need for a computer. Everything is organized and instantly playable.
There is a choice of wired or wireless communication, and the standard IEEE 802.11 d/g/n wireless protocol is used. Although 24/96 wireless music streaming is possible, we recommend a wired connection or local storage for HD music storage to avoid the possibility of information loss. The NAD M50.2 offers control from a smartphone or tablet. The NAD M50.2 CD transport can play or copy to internal memory, copying is fully automatic. With the Internet-connected BluOS app, you can manage your music, retrieve metadata, and retrieve artwork without the need for a computer. Everything is organized and instantly playable. You can browse your music collection using album art or listing categories. The NAD M50.2 has an IR remote control and a TFT touch panel. RS-232 and IR input allow the NAD M50.2 to be integrated with home automation systems.
Characteristics of NAD M50.2
Total harmonic distortion <0.01%
Signal-to-noise ratio >80 dB
Sampling frequency 32-192 kHz Bit
depth 16-24 bits
Supported file formats MP3, AAC, WMA, OGG, WMA-L, FLAC, ALAC, WAV, AIFF, MQA
Cloud services supported WiMP, Slacker Radio, Qobuz, HighResAudio, JUKE, Deezer, Murfie, HDTracks, Spotify, TIDAL, Napster
Free Internet radio TuneIn Radio, iHeartRadio, Calm Radio, Radio Paradise
Inputs Stereo input with RCA jacks : Analog, SPDIF: Coaxial, optical (TOSLINK), USB: 2 x Type A, Type B mini, IR input: 3.5 mm jack, +12V trigger input, RS232 SPDIF outputs
: Coaxial, optical (TOSLINK), HDMI, AES, +12V Trigger Output
Ethernet/LAN: Ethernet RJ45, GigE, Bluetooth aptX
User Interface: BluOS Controller can be downloaded from the app store for Apple devices based on iOS (iPad, iPhone and iPod), Android, Kindle Fire, Windows/Mac.
Supported operating systems: Windows – XP Vista, 7, 8 and later, Mac OS X – 10.6 and later
Supply voltage 100-240 V 50/60 Hz
Standby power consumption <0.5 W
Dimensions (WxHxD): 435 x 133 x 380 mm
Gross weight 16.5 kg
