TAD (Technical Audio Devices) has built a global reputation for excellence when it comes to the technical and sonic merits of its components and loudspeakers — and with that comes a rather hefty asking price. The Japanese manufacturer does not refresh its lineup to match consumer trends and instead focuses on the next generation of its products pushing the envelope even further.
For example, TAD released the M1000 two-channel in 2018 which has served TAD dealers and customers well since that time.
For 2024, the M1000TX two-channel power amplifier is being released as the latest upgrade in its Evolution Series of high-end audio components that replaces the M1000. Other components in the Evolution series include the TAD-D1000TX disc player, TAD-DA1000TX D/A converter, TAD-C1000 preamplifier, and TAD-M2500MK2 power amplifier.
The new M1000TX incorporates several technical refinements and enhancements to achieve a new level of performance. Upgrades from the previous M1000 amplifier include:
- Fully redesigned circuit layout and power transformers.
- The inclusion of direct wiring that has been recently adopted in other TAD electronics.
- The shape of the cross-section of the transformer core has been redesigned from square to circular, minimizing unwanted leakage magnetic flux and vibrations and resulting in a power supply with greater purity, responsiveness, and accuracy.
Core Features
Circuit Layout
The TAD-M1000TX employs a BTL (bridge-tied load) design that connects two separate internal amplifiers in a balanced configuration for the left and right channels in the amplification circuit from input through output stages.
This approach allows the positive and negative power supplies to maintain symmetry. The power supply circuits are designed separately for each channel. For additional support, the earthing point has been redesigned, which serves as a reference point for symmetry, not only electrically but also structurally.
TAD also redesigned the circuit and its layout in the first amplification stage.
High-Capacity Transformers
The TAD-M1000TX is powered by upgraded twin high-capacity dropper toroidal transformers with a power rating of 1 kVA each. To increase the purity of the power supply, the internal coil of the transformer is connected to the power supply circuit, minimizing the contact points with leading wires.
The terminals for directly connected coils, mounting terminals for motherboards, and clamping screws are all made of oxygen-free copper coated with nonmagnetic materials to eliminate even the slightest magnetic distortions.
The shape of the cross-section of the transformer core has a new circular design (its predecessor has a square design). The circular design improves contact between the core and coils, minimizing unwanted leakage of magnetic flux and vibrations. As a result, the power supply has greater purity and responsiveness, contributing to more accurate driving of speaker diaphragms.
Power Output
The TAD-M1000TX is designed to deliver 500 watts per channel at 4 ohms. This is the result of the simplified Class-D single-output-stage consisting of power MOSFET devices with ultra-low on-resistance in leadless packages that boast lower power losses and higher-speed responses. The result is powerful yet responsive and agile sound reproduction.
Vibration Control Design
The TAD-M1000TX is supported by a three-point support structure with internally inverted spikes. This isolates the chassis from external vibrations traveling through the floor.
The minimum contact with the surface on which the TAD-M1000TX sits keeps external vibrations from traveling through the feet and adversely affecting circuits and parts inside the case.
This vibration-control design results in more condensed and energetic audio reproduction with the spatial nuance of the music retained intact.
Heavy-duty extra-large, high-quality speaker terminals on the rear panel, similar to the ones found in the Reference Series power amplifiers, reduce mechanical and electrical stress on connected speaker cables to improve their stability and bring out the best of them.
Bi-amping Option
The TAD-M1000TX offers a bi-amping connection option for compatible speakers. This means that one M1000TX can be connected to the tweeter terminals of the right and left speakers and another M1000TX to the woofer terminals. Bi-amping eliminates interference between speaker units, improving separation.
Comparison
| TAD-M1000TX | TAD-M1000 | |
| Released | 2024 | 2018 |
| Price | $24,950 | $19,950 |
| Power Output (per channel) | 500 W / 4Ω, 250 W/ 8Ω (2 channels simultaneously driven, 20 Hz to 20 kHz, T.H.D., 1.0 %) | 500 W / 4Ω, 250 W/ 8Ω (2 channels simultaneously driven, 20 Hz to 20 kHz, T.H.D., 1.0 %) |
| Rated Distortion | Less than 0.05% at 1 kHz, 4Ω | Less than 0.05 % (20 Hz to 20 kHz, 250 W, 4Ω) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 112 dB or higher | 112 dB or higher |
| Frequency Response | 10 Hz to 50 kHz, +0/-3 dB | 5 Hz to 50 kHz, -3 dB |
| Gain | 29.5 dB | 29.5 dB |
| Input Terminal (Sensitivity/Impedance) | 1.5 V/100 kΩ (balanced input) 0.75 V/50 kΩ (unbalanced input) | 1.5 V / 220 kΩ (balanced input) 0.75 V / 47kΩ (unbalanced input) |
| Power Requirements | AC 100 V, 60 Hz (USA) AC 220 V to 230 V, 50 Hz/60 Hz (Europe/Asia) | AC 120 V, 60 Hz (USA) AC 220 V to 230 V, 50 Hz /60 Hz (Europe / Asia) |
| Standby Power Consumption | 0.5 W | Less than 0.5 W |
| Dimensions (WHD) | 440 × 148 × 479 mm 17-5/16 x 5-13/16 x 18-7/8 in | 440 x 148 x 479 mm 17-5/16 x 5-13/16 x 18-7/8 in. |
| Weight: | 29 kg (63.9 lb) | 29 kg (63.9 lb) |
Initial Impression
2024 has been a big year of high-end audio product introductions, and the TAD-M1000TX power amplifier certainly fills the bill. However, with a price of $24,950, only a limited number can afford it.
That being said, TAD continues to live up to its reputation in terms of precision construction, the only question is that is it really a substantial upgrade from the previous M1000 power amp. For a difference of $5,000, can you actually hear the difference in performance, with all source, processing, and speaker components being the same?
Also, keep in mind that this is an amp designed for a two-channel system. If you are planning to use the TAD-M1000TX in a home theater setup, you are going to need more than one or two to power the number of channels you desire.
Price & Availability
The TAD-M1000TX will be available to purchase through select dealers starting in November 2024 for $24,950 (USD).
Related Reading
