Video Asylum

Is the Arcam AVR100 really a NAD in Disguise?

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bubbason

I have read postings on other sites that the new ARCAM is basically a
refaced NAD.
Does anyone have any more accurate knowledge of this?:
1. Is the ARCAM made at the same factory?
2. Does it use the same circuit board as the NAD?
3. Are the prime components, ie Transformer, filter caps, Preamp, Amp,
discrete components all the same?
I hate to complain but I paid more for the AVR hoping it would be a step up from NAD. NAD has a good rep for modest priced equipment, but the ARCAM I was told is typically a better product.
Now in fairness my AVR100 performs well, has low coloration and warm sound. It is better than my old Onkyo.
But is it literally a new faceplate with some of the logic changed, and the Analog signal chain exactly like the NAD?
Dont want to be overly critical, but would like to know the truth.
Comments appreciated!
Bubbason

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Re: Is the Arcam AVR100 really a NAD in Disguise? Hantra 11:57:18 05/25/01 (0)
Here's what I understand to be the case with the AVR-100. (which i own).
It is built in the same factory as the NAD in PRC, but was designed by Arcam. Arcam has replaced some parts, and circuits with their own design, but only where it would make a large enough difference for the cost involved.
I believe that the boards are different from NAD. I think they are along the same lines as the Alpha series in composition. I could be wrong, but I remember hearing that.
I am not sure the differences in the toroidal transformer over the NAD, but it is huge!
B
Re: Is the Arcam AVR100 really a NAD in Disguise? jasonz29 09:42:03 05/25/01 (1)
that is really funny. 2 months ago i saw a review for the arcam and all i could think was that it was identical looking to my nad t751. all of the buttons and inputs on the back are in the exact same location. interesting huh?!
- Arcam AVR100 vs DIVA A85? bubbason 12:35:11 05/29/01 (0)
  Well a lot can be said for whoever can pop the back off and look at the output stage......... Are the same Transistors used, and if the circuit board is the same, guess is that most the components will be the same. Sounds like I bought a supped up NAD.
  It costs a lot to get low rate, high quality Power Amp regime. Not to say that a good design could not be replicated in mass volume.
  All companies need to stay in business, and NAFTA assures that every company will go to the mass produced mode, and the small companies will have a harder time staying in business.
  What about the DIVA A85 amp? Is this built in the UK, and has anyone heard this amp? If I would have known about the NAD reuse, I would have consided this amp.

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