With the C 399, the manufacturer NAD has launched a new integrated amplifier with a DAC section, which can be expanded with additional functions using modules and, according to NAD, is the new flagship of the Classic series.
NAD C 399: Functions and Features
The new NAD amplifier comes up with a practical mix of connectivity: two line-level sources and a turntable (MM) are connected on the analog side, and there are two optical and coaxial S / PDIF inputs and an HDMI-ARC input for digital sources.
A pre-out and two sub-outs are available as well as speaker terminals for connecting two pairs of speakers that can be operated separately or simultaneously. And if you want to play wirelessly, you can use the built-in Bluetooth receiver with aptX HD. Incidentally, the opposite also works: Thanks to the built-in Bluetooth transmitter, the corresponding headphones can be controlled wirelessly.
The digital section is based on an ESS Saber chip, which can process material up to 32 bit / 384 kHz and also in the NAD Masters amplifiers M10 and M33 was installed. In addition, the NAD C 399 can be upgraded with optional modules that can be easily inserted via the rear slots. NAD names the new MDC2-BluOS-D module as an example, which enriches the C 399 with, among other things, Dirac live room correction, multi-room streaming and the option of integration into a smart home system.
The MDC2-BluOS-D module can easily be plugged into the back of the NAD C 399
The amplifier stage relies on NAD’s own HybridDigital nCore technology, which, according to NAD, is characterized among other things by high efficiency and sound fidelity. NAD specifies the continuous output power as 2 x 180 watts at 4 ohms. In addition, the C 399 has a headphone amplifier which, with its low output impedance and high output voltage, should also drive high-impedance headphones without any problems.
The price of the NAD C399 is 1,999 euros, which becomes MDC2-BluOS-D module 599 euros costs. Both products will be available in December.
