C 379 HybridDigital DAC Amplifier
Best integrated amplifier for audiophiles seeking future-proof performance and versatile connectivity.
Experience audio excellence with the NAD C 379 HybridDigital DAC Amplifier. This integrated amplifier combines advanced digital and amplification technologies for powerful, detailed sound. Its Modular Design Construction (MDC2) platform ensures future flexibility, allowing for upgrades to enhance your listening experience. Enjoy clean power, exceptional clarity from the ESS SABRE DAC, and versatile connectivity options for all your sources.
$1260.00
More C Series Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
934
/ 1684
#934 in Power Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-85%
Below average
Weight
9
/ kg
Who it's for
- Future-focused listeners wanting to upgrade features over time
- System builders integrating diverse analog and digital audio sources
- Audiophiles seeking clean, powerful, and distortion-free sound reproduction
Who should skip it
- Modern users expecting seamless out-of-the-box wireless streaming
- Budget-conscious buyers wary of additional costs for essential features
- Design-focused owners preferring elegant, high-end visual aesthetics
Performance breakdown
Amplification Power
HybridDigital UcD technology delivers robust, clean energy for demanding speaker setups.
Digital Precision
The ESS SABRE DAC extracts immense detail from high-resolution digital sources.
Future Proofing
MDC2 architecture allows for seamless hardware upgrades as technology evolves.
Connectivity Versatility
HDMI eARC and wireless options bridge the gap between modern media.
Vinyl Integration
Dedicated MM phono stage provides a warm, accurate analog listening experience.
System Scalability
Dual subwoofer outputs and bridgeable channels offer significant room for expansion.
Key Specs
Weight
9 kg
Continuous Power
80 W per channel (8/4 ohms)
Dynamic Power
140 W (8 ohms), 250 W (4 ohms)
Bridged Power
300 W
THD
<0.03%
Signal to Noise Ratio
>106 dB
Frequency Response
20 Hz – 20 kHz
DAC Resolution
32-bit/384 kHz
Features
- HybridDigital UcD amplifier for powerful sound
- High-performance ESS SABRE PRO DAC
- MDC2 slots for future upgrades
- MM Phono stage with RIAA equalization
- Independent headphone amplifier
- HDMI eARC for seamless TV audio
- Dual subwoofer outputs
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth aptX HD connectivity
What customers say
The NAD C 379 earns high praise primarily for its exceptional power and superior sound quality. Users consistently note its ability to drive difficult speakers with remarkable control and clarity. The HybridDigital technology delivers a clean, detailed, and musical signature, while the integrated DAC rivals dedicated external units in resolution and soundstage depth. A key advantage is the future proofing offered by the modular MDC2 platform, allowing easy upgrades for streaming or HDMI. Despite its premium cost, the consensus is that the C 379 provides genuine high-end performance and robust build quality, making it a highly recommended centerpiece for modern audio setups.
Know before you buy
MDC2 stands for Modular Design Construction, which features two expansion slots on the back of the amplifier. This allows you to add future hardware modules to gain new features or technologies without needing to replace the entire unit.
Yes, the C 379 includes an HDMI eARC input. This allows you to send high-quality audio directly from your TV to the amplifier and control the volume using your existing TV remote.
With 80 watts of continuous power per channel and dynamic power peaks up to 250 watts into 4 ohms, it is well-equipped to drive most floor-standing speakers with ease. If you need even more power, you can bridge the amplifier to deliver 300 watts to a single channel.
The integrated phono stage is specifically designed for Moving Magnet (MM) cartridges. If you are using a turntable with a Moving Coil (MC) cartridge, you will need an external step-up transformer or a dedicated phono preamp.
The ESS SABRE PRO DAC is a high-performance digital-to-analog converter that ensures your digital sources—like streamers or CD players—are translated into sound with exceptional clarity, low distortion, and a wide dynamic range.
Yes, the C 379 features an independent high-current headphone amplifier. It is designed to drive a wide range of headphones, providing a high-quality private listening experience separate from your main speaker setup.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.