NAD MDC BluOS 2i Module (Streaming Upgrade)

The NAD MDC BluOS 2i module is an expansion card that retrofits MDC-capable NAD amplifiers with BluOS streaming, AirPlay 2 and bidirectional Bluetooth aptX HD.

It turns a first-generation MDC amplifier into a full-fledged high-res streamer – no external box needed alongside it.

Why the MDC BluOS 2i module?

Because it brings older but good NAD amplifiers up to the current streaming standard. Once the module is in the MDC slot, the amplifier gains the BluOS streamer (MQA, Roon Ready, multiroom), AirPlay 2 for the Apple ecosystem, and bidirectional Bluetooth aptX HD – receiving music and sending it to headphones included. A short, clean signal path with no external power supply.

What you get

It connects via dual-band Wi-Fi (802.11ac) or Gigabit Ethernet, and a USB-A port accepts local storage media. The module's internal DAC converts right inside the device. Included in the box are the Wi-Fi antennas and the installation guide. We're happy to have our technician handle the installation so warranty and function stay intact.

Who is the MDC BluOS 2i module for – and who isn't it for?

Right for owners of an MDC-capable NAD amplifier who want to add streaming. Bottom line: this module fits the first MDC generation (e.g. C368, C388, M32, M12, C390DD) – not the newer MDC2 devices like C399 or M33; for those there's the MDC2 BluOS-D module. If in doubt, we'll check beforehand which module belongs to your device.

Our verdict

The MDC BluOS 2i module is the clever streaming upgrade for the first MDC generation: BluOS, AirPlay 2 and aptX HD right in the amplifier. Future-proofing as a retrofit instead of a new purchase.

Technical specifications

• Module type: MDC (Modular Design Construction, 1st generation)
• Function: streaming DAC, multiroom expansion
• Streaming: BluOS 2i (multiroom, MQA, Roon Ready)
• Wireless: dual-band Wi-Fi (802.11ac), Bluetooth aptX HD (bidirectional)
• Network: Gigabit Ethernet
• AirPlay: Apple AirPlay 2
• Input: 1× USB-A (local storage media)
• DAC: integrated (module's own converters)
• Compatible with: MDC-capable NAD components (e.g. C368, C388, M12, M32, C390DD)
• What's included: Wi-Fi antennas, installation guide

Frequently asked questions

Which NAD amplifiers does the MDC BluOS 2i module fit?

The module fits NAD components with a first-generation MDC slot, such as the C368, C388, M32, M12 or C390DD. For the newer MDC2 platform (C399, M33) you need the MDC2 BluOS-D module instead, since the slots differ. Tell us your model and we'll name the right module.

What's the difference between MDC BluOS 2i and MDC2 BluOS-D?

Both bring BluOS streaming into a NAD, but they fit different slots. The BluOS 2i is for the first-generation MDC slot and delivers streaming, AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth aptX HD. The MDC2 BluOS-D is for the newer MDC2 slot (C399, M33) and additionally adds HDMI eARC and Dirac Live. Your amplifier's slot determines which one you need.

Why buy the MDC BluOS 2i module at HD Zürisee?

With a retrofit, what matters is that the right module gets installed cleanly. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil we check compatibility, fit the module professionally and set up BluOS right along with it. Authorized NAD dealer with an in-house technician, warranty and service.

Goes well with: integrated amplifiers, streaming amplifiers, floorstanding speakers and network cables.