The NAD L53 seeks to provide a basic, but good quality all-in-one system, offering DVD/CD playback, an AM/FM tuner and stereo amp. There's no DVD-Audio or SACD decoding, nor any digital video output socket or video scaling for HD-Ready TVs. However, it does feature progressive scan with matching component video – the highest quality analogue video output. The rest of the socketry is equally well chosen. A Scart connector and S-Video in/outputs take care of the video side, while gold plated phonos (one tape loop and one line input), along with digital in and outputs (optical and coaxial in, optical-only out) look after the audio. Unlike many single-box systems at this price, the speaker sockets are proper 4mm binding posts.

This attention to detail is reflected in the build quality – given the price, the finish is especially impressive. The aluminium front panel, lid dampers, die-cast heatsink and lack of IC in the power amp stage are all features normally associated with more expensive machines. Don't expect much more than a Chinese DVD-ROM mechanism and basic frame transformer, but – given NAD's track record – there's a good chance these components will have been carefully selected. For the record, the output is a respectable 50 watts per channel, and the L53 includes SRS pseudo-surround for those not content with plain stereo. Gadget fans will also be impressed by the learning remote control, which also features an illuminated handset.

As this is a receiver unit, there's also a built-in radio tuner. It's not of the DAB variety, but it does feature AM and FM with RDS.

Sound Quality

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With either DVD or CD, the stereo sound is clearly leagues above its one-box rivals under $1000. The staging is spacious, well separated and even lends vocalists a decent level of projection. Best of all, the sound always has a thoroughly well balanced feel to it. The bass is powerful enough, yet doesn't dominate and neither does the treble. If one was being fussy, criticism could be levelled at the lethargic timing and loss of focus in the treble. By the standards of its contemporaries, though, the L53 is natural, focused and a joy to listen to.

On movie soundtracks, SRS does make effects more spacious, but it also adds coloration to the sound, especially in the treble. Turn it off and stick with stereo!

Sensibly, NAD has calibrated the FM tuner to work well with weaker signals. Even with an indoor aerial, there's a pleasing lack of hiss and rejection of interference. Listen to a good quality broadcast on Radio 3 and you'll experience detail and stage depth still unknown to DAB.

Video Performance

There's no HDMI, but the L53's picture has good depth and stability. Colours are natural and there's a level of detail and vibrancy that's up with good standalone.

Cleverly, NAD has made a fine-sounding hi-fi system that also plays DVD, rather than a home cinema package that plays music at a pinch. It's a great-value single-box solution.

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NAD L53 ¦ $799 ¦ ¦ www.audioproducts.com.au
For: A well built, good looking unit that offers a fine picture.
Against:  This isn't the best-equipped machine on the market.
Verdict: Strong with both movies and music.