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NAD M3 versus Simaudio I-3 SE

Hi all,

I am thinking about getting a new integrated amplifier. I currently have some small easy to drive speakers. The nad m3 is appealing because of the built in cross overs (i use a sub as well). However, I may upgrade to a larger speaker in the future. Does anybody have listing experience with the M3 and I3? I tend to prefer an airy, open, high end. I plan to listen to both amps but have not had a chance yet. Any opinions and/or advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance,
brian
volvosound
foster_9
1,610 posts
 
I had the M3. It is not the last word in having an open airy high end. I never used the treble control but that might help with that. The M3 is sort of closed in the upper end. I haven't heard the I-3SE but from my reading, it is very different from the M3. The M3 would probably be a bit rolled off in the upper mids and highs compared to the I-3. But, the synergy of your speakers with either integrated (the strength of the match) will be also be very important.
volvosound OP
17 posts
 
Thanks for the responses. I have T+A talis tls1 speakers. My greatest worry is the way some people describe the M3s high end as sounding introverted. However, synergy (as foster_9 mentions) is not factor I have considered yet.
foster_9
1,610 posts
 
My thought is if your speakers tend to the brighter side then the NAD will be a good offset to that; if not, then you'll be dealing with some restriction in the upper mids and highs.
volvosound OP
17 posts
 
Has anybody here listned to the M3 and a rotel. I have a rotel ra-1062 currently. Was wondering how the performance at higher frequencies compares (I know the rotel is a much cheaper amp).
volvosound OP
17 posts
 
okay... last question. thanks for bearing with me. What about the M3 compared to a simaudio I-5??

Thanks
Brian
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