The 'Disc' Input in NAD Amplifiers: Decoding the Function and Its Versatility

NAD amplifiers, renowned for their high fidelity and versatility, come with a variety of inputs designed to cater to different audio sources. One of these is the 'Disc' input, which may seem confusing at first glance. Let's demystify this feature and explore its potential applications.

Understanding the 'Disc' Input

The 'Disc' input in NAD amplifiers is essentially a line-level input, intended to accommodate audio from sources like video disc players, CD players, or tuners. However, it can be used for any device that outputs line level audio, such as a laserdisc or DVD player, without the need for a special interface. The labeling is there for convenience to help users remember which connection is which.

The Evolution of Disc-Based Audio Formats

The naming 'Disc' in the NAD amplifier reflects the evolution of audio disc formats over the decades. From the late '70s to the '90s, we saw the emergence of various disc-based audio formats, apart from the CD. These include Laser Vision, CDi (Philips' multimedia format), MiniDisc (Sony’s format), and finally DVD. This historical context helps us understand the convenience of a 'Disc' input for a wide range of sources.

Vinyl Enthusiasts and the 'Disc' Input

The versatility of the 'Disc' input comes to the forefront when discussing high-fidelity audio and vinyl. In this context, 'Disc' can be interpreted as a signal for vinyl records, enabling direct connection and playback through an external phono preamp. For vinyl enthusiasts, this input represents a significant advantage in setting up complex audio systems.

Using the 'Disc' Input for Vinyl

For those who enjoy vinyl records, the 'Disc' input is particularly useful. Vinyl records feature a V-shaped groove, and the needle rides on these grooves as the record spins. The upper and lower halves of the V-shaped groove represent the two stereo channels. The grooves themselves, however, produce a very weak electrical signal that requires amplification via a phono preamp.

The phono preamp uses the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) equalization curve to compensate for the specific way sound is recorded on vinyl. This curve corrects for the amplification required and the low-frequency attenuation that naturally occurs in the grooves. Outside the realm of vinyl, this setup is rare, and the 'Disc' input in most amplifiers is meant for line-level signals.

Other Applications of the 'Disc' Input

Beyond vinyl, the 'Disc' input can be used with a variety of audio devices. Audio enthusiasts can connect auxiliary sources like computers, smartphones, or other line-level audio devices. However, it is important to note that using this input with a turntable directly will yield suboptimal performance as it requires a dedicated phono preamp to properly amplify and equalize the audio output from the turntable.

Conclusion

In summary, the 'Disc' input in NAD amplifiers is a multifunctional line-level input suitable for various audio sources. While it can be used for video disc players, CD players, and tuners, its true versatility lies in its compatibility with vinyl records through an external phono preamp. This feature places NAD amplifiers in the league of high-end audio equipment that supports a wide range of audio formats, ensuring compatibility and convenience in modern audio systems.