NAD M17 V2i 11.1 AV Preamplifier (Dirac)

The NAD M17 V2i is a modular 11.1-channel AV preamplifier from the Masters Series with Dirac Live room correction, BluOS streaming and 4K video processing.

The audiophile brain of a large home cinema – without its own power amplifiers, but with uncompromising processing and the freedom to add modules later.

Why the NAD M17 V2i?

Because it combines home cinema and high-end stereo in one device – at reference level. The 11.1-channel processing decodes Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, balanced XLR outputs transmit the signal to your power amplifiers without loss, and the full version of Dirac Live measures the room and corrects it precisely. Add to that a full-fledged BluOS streamer that uses the same speakers for high-res music too.

What you get

Connections for a large system: six HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs (4K/60p, HDCP 2.2, one output with ARC), 11.1 balanced XLR and 11.1 unbalanced RCA outputs, plus digital inputs and Bluetooth aptX HD. What sets it apart is the MDC architecture: audio and video functions can be added later via the module slots – so the M17 V2i ages much more slowly than a classic AV processor.

Who is the NAD M17 V2i right for – and who isn't it right for?

Made for the serious home cinema that relies on separate power amplifiers (such as the NAD M28) and uncompromising processing. Plain talk: the M17 V2i is a pure preamplifier/processor – it doesn't drive any speakers, you absolutely need power amplifiers behind it. Anyone looking for a simple all-in-one solution is better served by an AV receiver; anyone who wants the maximum can hardly get past the M17 V2i.

Our verdict

The M17 V2i is the future-proof control centre for uncompromising home cinema: 11.1 channels, Dirac Live, BluOS and modular upgradability. The brain that a large system deserves.

Technical data

• Device type: 11.1-channel AV preamplifier / AV processor (Masters Series)
• Channels: 11.1-channel preamplification
• Audio formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X (Auro-3D via optional MDC module)
• Room correction: Dirac Live (full version)
• Streaming: BluOS (multiroom, MQA)
• Video: 4K/60p, 4:4:4, HDCP 2.2, 3D passthrough
• Video inputs: 6× HDMI 2.0 (HDCP 2.2)
• Video outputs: 2× HDMI 2.0 (one output with ARC)
• Analogue outputs: 11.1 XLR (balanced), 11.1 RCA (unbalanced)
• Digital inputs: 2× coaxial, 2× optical
• Expansion: MDC slots (4× audio/video modules)
• Wireless: Bluetooth aptX HD
• Total harmonic distortion (THD): < 0.005%
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 435 × 133 × 386 mm
• Weight: 10.7 kg
• Included: Dirac Live measurement microphone

Frequently asked questions

Which power amplifier suits the NAD M17 V2i?

The NAD M28 is ideal: the 7-channel power amplifier is matched to the M17 V2i and shares the Masters design; for more channels, you combine it with another power amplifier. In principle, any power amplifier with XLR inputs will work. The balanced connection gets you the lowest noise from the system. We're happy to plan with you which configuration suits your cinema.

Does the NAD M17 V2i support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X?

Yes. The 11.1-channel processing decodes both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, so you can add real height channels for three-dimensional sound. Auro-3D can be added later via an optional MDC module. Thanks to the modular architecture, the M17 V2i stays flexible for future formats too.

Why buy the NAD M17 V2i from HD Zürisee?

A home cinema of this class needs to be planned, wired and calibrated. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, we advise you on the whole system – preamplifier, power amplifiers, speakers, cabling – and support you with our own technician for installation and Dirac calibration. Authorised NAD dealer, warranty and service included.

Goes well with: multichannel power amplifiers, power amplifiers, home cinema speakers and floorstanding speakers.