NAD C 389 Integrated Amplifier DAC
Best high-performance amplifier for audiophiles seeking future-proof versatility.
Experience superior audio with the NAD C 399 Integrated Amplifier / DAC, the flagship of the Classic series. This amplifier boasts advanced Hypex HybridDigital nCore circuitry and a high-resolution 32-bit/384kHz ESS Sabre DAC for exceptional sound clarity. Its MDC2 modular design offers future-proof expandability, allowing for upgrades like multi-room streaming and room correction. Enjoy 180W of continuous power, a low-noise MM phono stage, and seamless home theater integration via HDMI-eARC, making it a versatile centerpiece for your audio system.
$850.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
175
/ 560
#175 in Audio & Video Receivers
Price vs Category Average
-68%
Below average
Continuous Output Power
18084
/ W ( or Ohm)
Who it's for
- Audiophiles demanding powerful and distortion-free sound reproduction
- Long-term owners wanting to upgrade features over time
- Listeners balancing high-end digital streaming with vinyl collections
Who should skip it
- Users with limited shelf space or compact media consoles
- Budget-conscious shoppers seeking entry-level audio solutions
- Buyers preferring an all-inclusive, out-of-the-box streaming experience
Performance breakdown
Amplification Power
Hypex nCore technology delivers effortless, clean power for demanding speaker loads.
Digital Precision
The ESS Sabre DAC ensures high-resolution audio remains crisp and transparent.
Future-Proofing
MDC2 modular design allows for seamless hardware upgrades as technology evolves.
Connectivity Versatility
HDMI-eARC and extensive inputs make this a true home theater hub.
Vinyl Performance
The ultra-low-noise phono stage provides a clean, quiet analog listening experience.
Build Integrity
Solid construction reflects the premium engineering expected from the Classic series.
Key Specs
Continuous Output Power
180 W (8 or 4 Ohm)
Weight
24.7 lb.
Dimensions
17-1/8" x 4-3/4" x 15-3/8"
DAC
32-bit/384kHz ESS Sabre
Amplifier Class
Class D
Inputs
Optical, Coaxial, HDMI eARC, Stereo RCA, Phono
Outputs
Speaker A/B, Subwoofer, Headphone, Pre out
Control
IR, 12V trigger, RS-232
Features
- Advanced Hypex HybridDigital nCore amplification
- High-resolution 32-bit/384kHz ESS Sabre DAC
- MDC2 modular design for future upgrades
- Ultra-low-noise MM phono stage
- HDMI-eARC for home theater integration
- 180W continuous power output
- Dual MDC2 ports for expanded functionality
- Two-way aptX-HD Bluetooth
What customers say
Customers highly value the NAD C 389 for its exceptional technical performance and future-proofing capabilities. The HybridDigital UcD amplification delivers clean, high-current power, easily driving demanding speakers to produce a dynamic and resolving sound across all music. Reviewers consistently praise the neutral, transparent sound signature, allowing source material fidelity to shine through the precise ESS Sabre DAC. A key attraction is the Modular Design Construction MDC2 platform, which allows users to easily integrate features like BluOS streaming, transforming the amplifier into a versatile digital hub. While adding modules increases the overall investment, the consensus is that the C 389 offers outstanding flexibility and power reserves, making it an excellent centerpiece for modern audio systems.
Know before you buy
The MDC2 design allows you to add future hardware modules to the amplifier as technology evolves. This means you can upgrade the unit with new features like advanced room correction or streaming capabilities without needing to replace the entire amplifier.
Yes, the amplifier features an HDMI-eARC input, which allows you to connect your TV directly. This enables you to control the amplifier's volume using your TV remote and enjoy high-quality audio through your stereo speakers.
The C 389 includes an ultra-low-noise Moving Magnet (MM) phono stage designed to provide accurate, clean playback for vinyl records. It is a capable, high-fidelity solution for most standard turntable setups.
This technology provides high efficiency and massive power reserves while maintaining extremely low distortion. It ensures the amplifier remains cool under load while delivering a clear, detailed, and dynamic sound profile.
The unit includes two-way aptX-HD Bluetooth, allowing you to stream music from your smartphone or tablet to the amplifier. For more advanced network streaming, you can utilize the MDC2 ports to add modules that support multi-room audio platforms.
Yes, the C 389 features Speaker A/B outputs, allowing you to connect and switch between two different pairs of speakers. Both outputs are driven by the same 180W power stage.
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