Are there multichannel (all in one) devices that are as good as the better two channel gear, selling for less dollars? This NAD is to my way of thinking overpriced given what I require, but then again it is not what I need, and it has 'features' I don't want. If one needs what it offers it may be decent value. If one is willing to mix 'n match they can compile something better for less, however for a 'stick it on the shelf and forget it' solution it could be a compelling product.
To compare, for simple hardwired two channel, and for the same dollars, you could buy an AHB2 and DAC3 HGC preamplifier. But that is not the market or the solution that this NAD plays in and was designed for. And then you wouldn't know the temperature of your amp's heat sinks.