NAD D3020 impressions

[KenM10759]

Took this NAD D3020 home for a trial this past weekend. It's one that was returned by a buyer after just two days, traded up for a full size one. Still had all the original wrappings. Initially I had it hooked up to a pair of older KEF iQ10's, I grabbed my R100's to see if there was any significant difference between them. I had a $25 Pyle PTA1 15w/ch. amp and just didn't like it.

Now that I've tried this NAD with both pairs of speakers, I'm most impressed with the improved performance of later model KEF Uni-Q drivers. This is the best the R100's have ever sounded, and I'll only return them to surround duty when playing music-oriented Blu-ray disks, until I can afford a pair of LS50's.

I've agreed on a fair price for this with my dealer, so it's staying! I love how easy it is to use, and how good it sounds. The new D3020v2 is 40w./ch massage has a phono stage, but I don't need either of those things. This amp goes louder than I'll ever need, sitting less than three feet away. And I love how compact it is!

 

[M Code]

Hmmm..
Those KEFs are nice loudspeakers. The original 3020 put NAD on the map, its updated replacement should be just as good or better. The NAD 3020 and Marantz 1060 were major sellers in the category of integrated amplifiers, throughout the world as back then there were fewer sources.. Typically a reel-to-reel or turntable... I don't know how many 3020s' were sold but I do know that the Marantz 1060 sold >750K pieces, which is a huge number..

Just my $0.02...

 

[KenM10759]

When I compared specs of this one and the newest version, this one seems to have less distortion but it's A VERY low number for either one. I'll never hear it in either one.

The new one has improved channel separation and signal to noise ratio. Kind of lame that they have Bluetooth but no phone app, but the touch controls for input selector and power on top, volume knob on front are all within easy reach. I probably don't even need the little remote.

I'll never need all the possible inputs either. It's just such a nice unit for desktop use, perfect for my needs. And yes the R100's are really nice and could be there a long time. I'll audition the LS50, but these are more compact and sound fantastic. My dealer has a pair of gloss white demo R100 that I could get for a great price if I want.

 

[speakerman39]

Awesome Ken! I have read so many times that the "R" series albeit the R100/R300 are more laid-back when compared to the LS50's. Just curious if you agree w/that. Also, care to offer me a few insights of the differences? It would be most appreciated. Thanks!

Cheers,

Phil

 

[KenM10759]

I do agree with that. If a listener is accustomed to very bright or shrill tweeters, the R series might disappoint. The highs are still there, simply not as pronounced as in the LS50.

 

[speakerman39]

I do agree with that. If a listener is accustomed to very bright or shrill tweeters, the R series might disappoint. The highs are still there, simply not as pronounced as in the LS50.

Great! Thanks for the insight. BTW, where does the Q350 fall in? More like the LS50's or a bit more laid-back like the "R" series? I am very interested in the Q350's and/or the R100's. The R300's are out of my price range. Thanks!


Cheers,

Phil

 

[DigitalDawn]

The original 3020 was one of my favorite audio products of all time.

 

[KenM10759]

Great! Thanks for the insight. BTW, where does the Q350 fall in? More like the LS50's or a bit more laid-back like the "R" series? I am very interested in the Q350's and/or the R100's. The R300's are out of my price range. Thanks!


Cheers,

Phil

Hi Phil,

I feel that the Q350's fall squarely between the R100's and LS50 for a couple of reasons. First, the tweeters on the Q350 has been modified to extend high frequencies to a higher level than the previous Q300 by adding an additional damping tube feature behind the tweeter. From what I've heard in auditioning them at my dealer's place, I'd venture to say it actually goes a little further than the R100 but is never grainy or harsh. It's just a touch shy of how the LS50 treats the highest frequencies.

The other major difference lies in switching construction over to a rear port so they could put the Uni-Q driver in the center of the front baffle. This affords deeper and smoother bass than the previous version. The port and cabinet is not as advanced or as well-braced as the LS50 due to price constraints, but it does still go a few hz lower than it's predecessor and the R100.

I don't think the Q350 is far off from either speaker now, and a genuine value for the price-performance ratio.

 

[speakerman39]

Hi Phil,

I feel that the Q350's fall squarely between the R100's and LS50 for a couple of reasons. First, the tweeters on the Q350 has been modified to extend high frequencies to a higher level than the previous Q300 by adding an additional damping tube feature behind the tweeter. From what I've heard in auditioning them at my dealer's place, I'd venture to say it actually goes a little further than the R100 but is never grainy or harsh. It's just a touch shy of how the LS50 treats the highest frequencies.

The other major difference lies in switching construction over to a rear port so they could put the Uni-Q driver in the center of the front baffle. This affords deeper and smoother bass than the previous version. The port and cabinet is not as advanced or as well-braced as the LS50 due to price constraints, but it does still go a few hz lower than it's predecessor and the R100.

I don't think the Q350 is far off from either speaker now, and a genuine value for the price-performance ratio.

Thanks a bunch Ken. Been reading a lot of good things about the Q350's. Now it is just a matter of saving some money so that I can make my move. Not sure exactly sure when that will be as I am paying some things off. BTW, I also like the Nad 3020......LOL!!!! Do you think that the 3020 would work well w/the Q350's for desktop use? I don't listen at absurd levels. But, will rock out every once in a while. Thanks!


Cheers,

Phil

 

[KenM10759]

I think the D3020 (or newer D3020v2) would be an ideal match for them!

 

[speakerman39]

I think the D3020 (or newer D3020v2) would be an ideal match for them!

I don't need the phono either so the v2 is not needed. It all depends on the deal that I can get. Thanks once again Ken!


Cheers,

Phil

 

[KenM10759]

Phil,

I wouldn't pay more than $350 for one, given the D3020v2 lists for $400.

The more I use it the better I like it! Now my son wants one for his workshop.

 

[speakerman39]

Phil,

I wouldn't pay more than $350 for one, given the D3020v2 lists for $400.

The more I use it the better I like it! Now my son wants one for his workshop.

Ken, I am an el cheapo from way back....LOL!!!!! When I get ready to pull the trigger I always look for a deal. Not afraid of B-stocks either. Right now, Crutchfield has the 3020 v.1 for $350 brand new! Too bad, I can't buy it right now. Got too much to pay off now as it is. Thanks!

Cheers,

Phil

 

[KenM10759]

The primary reseller of NAD's "b-stock" (factory refurbished and returned) products was a place near me, Spearit Sound of Northampton MA. The owner of that place retired and closed the doors. Now the NAD b-stock goes to another place about the same distance from me, "Safe & Sound HQ" of Chicopee MA.

They have at least one D3020, found HERE.

 

[speakerman39]

The primary reseller of NAD's "b-stock" (factory refurbished and returned) products was a place near me, Spearit Sound of Northampton MA. The owner of that place retired and closed the doors. Now the NAD b-stock goes to another place about the same distance from me, "Safe & Sound HQ" of Chicopee MA.

They have at least one D3020, found HERE.

Wow! What a great price! Wished I could jump on it. Just too much to pay off before I am able to purchase anything. Both the NAD 3020 and the Q350's are certainly on my radar. Will just have to see how it all unfolds. However, I do know it will be a bit later in the year before I can even make my move. That is, unless I want to pile on more debt. Just really not feeling that right now. Thanks!


Cheers,

Phil