NAD
NAD C399 Hybrid Digital DAC Amplifier
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n exciting news, NAD has for the very first time incorporated the unique Hypex HybridDigital nCore amplifier circuitry it developed for its top-of-theline Masters Series amplifiers into a ‘Classic Series’ amplifier. The NAD C399 amplifier takes NAD’s commitment to lasting value and sonic excellence to a whole new level not only because of this HybridDigital nCore circuitry, but also because it is the first NAD amplifier to incorporate the latest generation of NAD’s Modular Design Construction (MDC) technology (MDC2). Modular Design Construction is a unique topology that allows you to dynamically upgrade the C399 by plugging in optional modules if you want specific features, such as BluOS multi-room music streaming, Dirac Live room correction, HDMI switching or DSD USB DAC.
This plug ‘n play system means you can add these same functions at some future date, or upgrade in the future by switching out an older module for another, newer, one offering features currently not available. If you choose to install the MDC2 BluOS-D module you’ll get much more than bi-directional music streaming and Dirac Live room correction. The same module also adds Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Airplay2, all of which can be controlled via a BluOS Controller app. The module has integrated support for dozens of streaming services including Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect. NAD’s C399 isn’t only a sophisticated integrated amplifier, it’s also a state-ofthe-art DAC whose digital section is built around the same 32-bit/384kHz ESS Sabre DAC that NAD uses in its acclaimed
M10 and M33 Masters Series amplifiers. In addition to coaxial and optical digital inputs, there’s also two-way apt-X HD Bluetooth to enable 24-bit streaming from mobile devices and high-quality output to Bluetooth headphones. Of course the C399 also has analogue inputs, both line level and phono, with the latter offering both MM and MC options. The fact that modern loudspeakers are becoming increasingly difficult to drive has not escaped NAD’s design team. The C399 is able to deliver 180-watts of power per channel continuously, along with up to 250-watts of instantaneous power. The nCore circuitry is renowned for its wide bandwidth, flat frequency response, clean clipping behaviour with instant recovery, high current capability, and stability into demanding lowimpedance speaker loads along with vanishingly low noise and distortion. The result is that you will hear neutral, distortion-free sound even at very high listening levels, with exquisite detail, superb portrayal of space, and thrilling dynamics. Price: $3,399
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