NAD MDC VM130i

The NAD MDC VM130i is an expansion card designed for compatible NAD receivers, notably the T 758. It is part of NAD’s Modular Design Construction approach, implemented since 2006, which allows users to upgrade certain features of their device without replacing the entire unit. The VM130i module adds network connectivity capabilities and supports streaming platforms such as BluOS.

Technical Architecture and Hardware Design

The VM130i takes a purist approach to video processing by applying the “do no harm” principle to the signal. Unlike processors that actively modify the video signal, the module fully preserves the frame rate and color space from input to output. This philosophy ensures that no valuable information is added or subtracted, leaving video processing where it belongs: in your display.

The module incorporates the latest 4K video chips supporting 60 frames per second with full 4:4:4 resolution, surpassing many UHD receivers that still limit their performance to 4K/60 @ 4:2:0. This technical capability enables faithful reproduction of all current and future UHD formats. The 18 Gbps bandwidth ensures uncompromised transmission of the most demanding video signals, including HDR (High Dynamic Range) support with Dolby Vision for extended dynamic range and richer colors.

The VM130i architecture includes three HDMI 2.0b inputs on the rear panel and one HDMI 2.0b output, all compliant with the HDCP 2.2 standard. This copy protection is essential for accessing all commercial UHD content. CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) support enables unified control of multiple devices via a single remote, while ARC (Audio Return Channel) simplifies connections by allowing audio to return from the TV to the receiver.

High-Resolution Audio Streaming Capabilities via BluOS

One of the most remarkable features of the VM130i is its BluOS Ready compatibility. Via the integrated USB Type-A port, users can connect the BluOS upgrade kit (sold separately) to transform their receiver into a sophisticated music streaming hub. This integration enables lossless audio streaming up to 24-bit/192 kHz, preserving every nuance of your favorite high-resolution recordings.

The BluOS system allows multiroom management of up to 64 zones, creating a distributed audio ecosystem throughout the home. The integrated MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) technology decodes and restores MQA-encoded audio files, ensuring exact reproduction of what the artist recorded and approved in the studio. The module supports a wide range of audio formats including MP3, AAC, WMA, OGG, FLAC, ALAC, WMA-L, WAV, and AIFF, ensuring compatibility with virtually all digital music libraries.

The BluOS Controller app, available free on iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS, turns any connected device into a smart remote. Users can access their locally stored music collections, browse streaming services like TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify, Deezer, Amazon Music Unlimited, and Napster, or explore thousands of Internet radio stations via TuneIn, iHeartRadio, and other platforms.

Native AirPlay 2 Integration and Voice Control

The VM130i stands out for its native AirPlay 2 integration, positioning the module among the most flexible solutions on the market. This compatibility allows seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem, enabling direct streaming from iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Users can ask Siri to play Apple Music or control playback in different rooms, creating a truly hands-free experience.

AirPlay 2 technology enables perfect synchronization of music across multiple compatible devices in the home. You can play the same song everywhere or send different music to different zones simultaneously, all controlled from your Apple device. This flexibility extends to voice control via Amazon Alexa thanks to the BluOS Voice skill in the Alexa app, allowing you to control personal music collections and streaming services with simple voice commands.

Technical Specifications

MDC Compatibility

• Compatible receivers: NAD T 758 and other Classic Series MDC AV models
• Modular, upgradable design
  • Simple hardware upgrades without replacing the entire receiver
  • Extends the technological relevance of your NAD system

Video Specifications

• 4K Ultra HD resolution up to 60 fps
• Full 4:4:4 support at 60 Hz
• HDMI 2.0 with full 18 Gbit/s bandwidth
• HDCP 2.2 compatible with all protected UHD content
• HDMI output with CEC / ARC
• Integrated on-screen display
• Unaltered video signal processing
  • No changes to frame rate or color space

Audio and BluOS Streaming

• Full BluOS integration
  • High-resolution audio streaming up to 24-bit / 192 kHz
  • Multi-zone management for up to 64 zones
  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support
• Voice control with Amazon Alexa
• Apple compatibility with AirPlay 2 integration
• Control via BluOS Controller app: iOS, Android, Windows, macOS

Connectivity

• HDMI connections
  • 3 HDMI 2.0 inputs on the rear panel
  • 1 HDMI 2.0 output with ARC and CEC
• USB 2.0 Type-A port for BluOS Ready modules
• Network connectivity: Wi-Fi and Ethernet

System Integration

• Supported systems: Crestron, Control4, RTI, Elan, URC, Push

Key Benefits

• Upgrade your NAD AV receiver with 4K UHD, HDMI 2.0, and HDCP 2.2
• Transform into a high-resolution multi-zone audio streamer
• Support for the latest technologies without replacing the chassis
• Voice control and modern smart home integration
• Compatible with your favorite streaming services: TIDAL, Qobuz, Deezer, Spotify