Summary: KICK ASS for $.
It's intuitive and auto configs to best sound for whatever you're watching / listening.
Strengths: Why I bought it:
4 COAX INPUTS (less finicky than optical and works for PS/2, CableTv etc) where as most other receivers only have 2 Coax.
Simplicity in that EVERY CONNECTION IS CONFIGURABLE... Text can be changed on display to indicate "PS2" or "TV" or whatever, and inputs can be reassigned as needed ie CD can use DVD as source. Simple interface.
CANADIAN designed.
SOLID equal power for all 5 channels. No use for >5.
Compatible with KAMELEON 8in1 remote (had to download new code).
Weaknesses: Remote is good but Kameleon 8in1 is better.
VCR composite or S-vid can have sync problems for high-signal scenes: ie Spawn anime movie explosions where screen flashes completely white, T743 kicks out "unusable signal" momentarily.
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Summary: I bought this a few months ago along with a Nad DVD player and Wharfedale 5.1 speaker set. I'm very pleased with its performance.
The receiver is heavy and seems to be well-built. I have my 37" LCD TV, DVD player, and iPod dock connected to it. The front inputs are great for connecting a camcorder or video game console (such as a PS2). The sound quality is exactly what you'd expect from Nad gear-- amazing. Everything Nad says about this thing is bang on: phenomenal home theater performance without sacrificing musical performance. There's plenty of power available for most users. I live in an apartment building but that hasn't stopped me from pushing the receiver a few times. In addition, the remote is excellent (an area that attracted some criticism in the past) and the receiver has an attractive, clutter-free appearance.
The only criticism I have is with the optical inputs. They're spaced so close together that it's difficult to have both connected simultaneously. One cable gets in the other's way making the plugging-in process a little frustrating. (Perhaps I could have shopped around for cables with smaller ends.) Other than that, a great piece of gear that truly exceeded my expectations.
Strengths: -Great surround
-Great musical performance
-Plenty of inputs
-Excellent remote
-Good value
Weaknesses: -Optical ports too close together
Similar Products Used: Nad T533 DVD player
Nad 701 integrated amp
Nad 513 CD changer
Onkyo double cassette deck
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Summary: This unit was purchased to replace a Yamaha receiver for a second system in a small to medium sized room. Having to share my residence with a buddy of mine, it is rather difficult to enjoy the main living area of the house when I so choose. I wanted to find the best combination of performance and affordability possible. I truely had no idea what a difference it would make in my room. When first installed, I experimented with Paradigm Atoms in 2 channel only. Let me just say that when you read reviews on NAD products and their overall smoothness, soundstage seperation, and dynamics, BELIEVE IT!! This T743 outperformed my Yamaha by leaps and bounds. I know that's not hard to believe, but when I say that I would rather listen to this entry level NAD over my Adcom GFA5500/Paradigm Studio 100 combo in my living room, take notice. I'm not saying that the Adcom/Paradigm combo is not satisfying, it just lacks the liquid feel of the NAD. I have now hooked Paradigm Studio 20's up to the T743 and needless to say, the improvement over the Atom's is dramatic. The best investment I have made in a very long time. The overall sound with both 2 channel and surround is that of definite quality and is noticable immediately. Fit and finish is a step up also. I rather like the simple appearances of NAD products. Reminds me of military grade equipment. Simple and solid. According to a review on the Soundstage A/V network, the T743 could probably be used to push my Studio 100's in my living room. Yes, I believe that. Although I don't think it would have the same impact as the 200 watts they are being fed right now. I can honestly say that going to a T763 or T773 in my living room is a definite future upgrade. NAD has more refinement than I would have ever expected at the price. Bravo! Can't wait to get my hands on one of their C270 or C272 power amps to connect to the T743 main channels. NO, I really don't need to in my small to medium sized room. However, I am used to being able to push some volume and it would be nice to have the extra security and clean reserves that an external amp would provide.
Summary: First, I have to say that mine is 2004 model (the case did not allow me to select more then 2003). I am totally agree with prior reviewer; it is not only a great receiver for the money...is a great receiver, period. It is hooked with five Energy XL150 and an Infinity Entra Sub (not a great sub but good enough for music). My model includes a 2004 owner´s manual adendum with some upgrades, including the software new version (2.0). Now I see why Soundstage selected this receiver as one of the 2004 reviewer´s choice. If you want more details about the listening I did with it, you can read my review about the Energy XL150 bookshelf speakers as I did all my listening sessions with this receiver, switching to a Jolida 202A an a Parasound HCA1000A for AB comparisons; I also connected the NAD to a pair of Polk RT25i and NHT Super Zeroes, and allways the NAD exhibited a well balanced sound with warmth, clear treble, excellent midrange and tight bass, managing every kind of music, not as refined as the Jolida but less harsh than the Parasound, although the Parasound is much more powerful. Dolby Digital was also excellent, as was the analog signal from the external 5.1 for DVD-Audio and SACD. Sound from headphones is clear and detailed, something where many receivers and amplifiers fails.
Strengths: Construction, sound, easy of use
Weaknesses: For my purposes, nothing
Similar Products Used: Jolida 202A, Parasound HCA1000A, Pioneer Universal Player 563A, NAD 521i CD player, Marantz DR6000 CD recorder, Creek OBH11 headphones amplifier, Grado SR60 headphones.
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Summary: I would call myself an audiophile due to my interest but an enthusiast due to my bank account.
Having said that, I believe that the T-743 is probably the best component you can buy IN ITS PRICE RANGE.
I would have the T-773 or better yet, NAD separates on my stand but can't afford it.
This amp is rated very conservatively at 50 x 5 ALL CHANNELS DRIVEN AT .08% THD WITH 60 DAMPING AT 8 OHMS. (70 x 2 at rated THD in stereo).
Dynamic power is 105 x 2 (145 x 2 at a stable 4 ohms)
I have compared this power against many other brands touting 100 x 5 or 110 x 5 etc and the NAD clearly outpowered them. Yamaha, Denon, Marantz, Pioneer, etc... it even gives big Rotel receivers an honest run while at the same time sounding warmer.
When the speaker load increses, this amp steps up and delivers with no loss at any frequency because of its dynamic power reserves.
If you are looking for an under $1000.00(CDN)receiver that will give you warm, clean and powerful sound, this component is not a compromise. Unless you need to drive massive power hungry speakers, you will be impressed. And even then you can use the great processor and add a power amp or two in the future.
I have many freinds with other receivers and amps that now believe me when I say ratings on paper don't tell the whole story. They all paid alot more than I did and now they feel dissappointed in their choice.
Strengths: Warm, clean and uncolored sound at a great price.
Weaknesses: I wish it were physically larger to look more imposing, then they would really never know its "only" 50 x 5!
Similar Products Used: Yamaha AV90-PY, Denon 1905, Rotel 1065, H/K ? (40 x 5), Onkyo 801
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