NAD S170 - Manual

The S170 combines Dolby Digital, Digital Pro Logic, DTS and THX EX sur-
round decoding in a THX-Ultra multi-channel preamplifier designed to the
same exceedingly high sonic standards as the original Silver S100
Preamplifier—and following the same "Music First" design brief. Significantly,
in these days of rapid digital format changes, the S170 features a fully
upgradeable digital processor on a separate plug-in circuit board. This dic-
tates a specially engineered, ultra-low-noise switch mode power supply, so
that the S170 achieves supply voltages of unexcelled stability and purity that
remain totally independent despite varying demands on all six channels, or
even the requirements of future digital upgrades.
The S170’s audio circuits employ the latest high-performance FET operational
amplifiers, and all six channels deliver exceedingly low output impedance—
long an NAD hallmark—that eliminates the sonic impact of cable (and ampli-
fier input) impedance. S170 output muting is performed via reliable, sonically
transparent gold-contact relays (rather than sound-colouring electronic
switching), and includes gold-surfaced connectors throughout. The result is a
surround controller that stands as the sonic equal of the very best stereo high-
end pre-amps, while also capable of delivering the power and realism of the
best multi-channel recordings. The S170’s superb performance earned it
LucasFilm approval under the THX Ultra program, a clear certification of no-
holds-barred Home Theatre performance.
The S170 combines ultra-high-speed DSP processing employing the latest
generation DSP with fully 24-bit, 24/96-capable D/A converters for all chan-
nels, yielding state-of-the-art surround decoding and sound quality in all
modes. All digital circuits are run from a single high precision master clock
to insure that no timing errors can occur between the various digital circuits
that comprise this sophisticated control center.
In addition to its superb Dolby Digital, DTS 5.1-channel and THX Surround
EX decoding, the S170 performs extremely accurate digital-domain Pro Logic
decoding. It includes NAD’s proprietary Enhanced Ambience Recovery System
(EARS). Unlike typical ambience synthesis modes, EARS employs the S170’s
enormous DSP calculating power to route the ambient content that is
"encrypted" in virtually all natural-acoustic recordings to the appropriate
main, center and surround speakers—without resorting to artificially gener-
ated reflections or regeneration. EARS’s natural ambience yields a subtle but
extraordinarily effective surround mode that naturally enhances the spatial
presentation in a fashion suitable for serious music listening.
While emphasising sonics and performance, the S170 is also fully equipped to
serve as a very able master component, even for complex multi-channel sys-
tems. Six digital inputs, including a pro-type BNC connection, plus three RCA-
jack coaxial and two optical ports are freely assignable, while two digital out-
puts facilitate recording. Following NAD’s usual attention to detail, all digital
inputs and outputs are buffered and transformer coupled to provide a precise
impedance match to minimise "jitter" on the digital signal. There’s also a 5.1-
channel analogue input to accept the future addition of an outboard surround
processor, such as DVD-Audio and/or an SACD component.
Four analogue inputs, and no fewer than six video paths (all with S-Video)
include a component-video input/output for fully integrated DVD or digital-TV
use. A fully independent Zone 2 stereo output accommodates whole-house
expansion, while an RS-232 serial port and three 12-volt trigger outputs (assign-
able for two functions) provide for sophisticated systems control. Of course, the
S170 also incorporates NAD-Link for multi-component "smart-remote" opera-
tion, and is equipped with a superbly ergonomic remote controller.
S170 Surround Sound Preamp Processor
• Dolby Digital, DTS & THX EX 7.1 decoding • THX Ultra certified
• Latest generation DSP processor • NAD’s proprietary EARS surround music mode
• 24 bit/96kHz compatible • 24 bit resolution DACs for all channels
• 10 inputs: 6 video (3 are full in/out), 4 audio (1 is Tape Monitor In/Out loop)
• All video inputs are S-Video and Composite
• Full Component Video input and output • 6 digital inputs: 1 BNC, 3 coaxial,
2 optical; freely assignable to any input • 2 digital outputs: 1 coaxial, 1 optical
• Ext 5.1 input for connection of DVD-A • Multi-source second zone stereo output
• 3 x 12V triggers for remote on/off switching for monitors, screens, power-amps, etc.
• IEC detachable power cable • NAD Link • RS 232 port for elaborate custom installs