NAD CI 16-60 DSP 16 Channel Power Amplifier
Best multi-room amplifier for professional custom home audio installations.
The NAD CI 16-60 DSP is a versatile 16-channel network amplifier designed for custom installations, delivering reliable 60 watts per channel into 8 ohms. It utilizes NAD’s Hybrid Digital amplification with Hypex UcD technology for clear, dynamic sound and handles 4-ohm speakers and long cable runs with ease. Its space-saving 2U rack design, thermostatic cooling, and IP control via Ethernet simplify installation and remote diagnostics. Each of the 8 zones features a 5-band parametric EQ for precise audio tuning, making it ideal for multi-room audio.
$2900.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
325
/ 1684
#325 in Power Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-65%
Below average
Continuous Output Power
608
/ W per channel into ohms (all channels driven)
Who it's for
- System designers needing reliable, cool-running power for distributed audio
- Integrators managing large-scale multi-zone audio projects
- Audio professionals requiring precise room and speaker calibration
Who should skip it
- Audiophiles powering inefficient, high-demand speakers in large listening rooms
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking a basic multi-channel amplification solution
- DIY homeowners lacking experience with advanced audio software configuration
Performance breakdown
Installation Versatility
Compact 2U rack design fits seamlessly into professional custom integration setups.
Audio Customization
Five-band parametric EQ per zone allows for precise room-specific sound tuning.
Power Stability
Hybrid Digital amplification maintains consistent output even under demanding speaker loads.
Network Control
IP-based Ethernet control simplifies remote diagnostics and system management for installers.
Thermal Management
Thermostatic fan cooling ensures reliable performance during extended multi-room audio sessions.
Bridgeability
Flexible bridging options provide extra headroom for more power-hungry speaker zones.
Key Specs
Continuous Output Power
60 W per channel into 8 ohms (all channels driven)
Continuous Output Power into 4 ohms
65 W (all channels driven)
Bridged Mode Output Power
140 W per channel into 8 ohms
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)
0.05% (1W to 50W, 8/4 ohms)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
80 dB (A-weighted)
Damping Factor
110 (20 Hz – 1 kHz 8 ohms)
Input Impedance
20 kohms//220pF
Dimensions
483 x 100 x 435 mm
Features
- 16 channels of high-quality Class D amplification
- DSP with 5-band parametric EQ per zone
- Bridgeable for higher power output
- IP Control via Ethernet for easy setup
- Handles difficult speaker loads effortlessly
- Space-saving 2U rack height design
- Thermostatic fan cooling system
- Full Disclosure Power (FDP) ratings
What customers say
Professional integrators highly value the NAD CI 16-60 DSP for its robust performance in multi-zone audio distribution. The core praise centers on the exceptional sound quality provided by the HybridDigital amplification, delivering detailed and powerful audio. Installers consistently laud the integrated Digital Signal Processing, which offers granular control over equalization and matrixing across all sixteen channels. This feature set is essential for optimizing sound in varied architectural spaces. Furthermore, the unit is recognized for its reliability in continuous operation and seamless integration via IP control into modern smart ecosystems. While the initial cost is significant, the amplifier’s density and comprehensive feature set establish it as an excellent long-term investment for demanding custom installations.
Know before you buy
Yes, the CI 16-60 DSP is bridgeable. When bridged, it provides 140 watts per channel into 8 ohms, which is useful for powering larger speakers or more demanding areas in your home.
The unit features a built-in thermostatic fan cooling system, so it is designed to manage its own temperature. However, as with any rack-mounted equipment, you should ensure there is adequate airflow around the 2U chassis to maintain optimal performance.
Each of the eight zones features a 5-band parametric EQ accessible via the amplifier's DSP. You can configure these settings through the IP control interface over your Ethernet network, allowing for precise room-by-room tuning.
Yes, the CI 16-60 DSP is engineered to handle 4-ohm loads effortlessly. It delivers 65 watts per channel into 4 ohms with all channels driven, making it a reliable choice for a variety of speaker configurations.
No, the CI 16-60 DSP does not have a built-in digital-to-analog converter. It is a dedicated power amplifier that accepts analog signals via RCA inputs, so you will need an external source or pre-amplifier to handle digital-to-analog conversion.
Yes, the amplifier supports IP control via Ethernet. This allows for easy setup and remote diagnostics, which is particularly helpful for custom installers or homeowners managing complex multi-room audio systems.
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