NAD CI 980 8 Channel Power Amplifier
Best multi-zone amplifier for custom whole-home audio installations.
Experience exceptional multi-room audio with the NAD CI 980 8-Channel Power Amplifier. Designed for custom installations, it delivers NAD's renowned musical sound quality across four stereo zones. This amplifier provides 50 watts per channel, with the option to bridge channels for higher power needs. Its high-efficiency switching technology ensures cool operation and energy savings, all within a compact, rack-friendly 2U design. Enjoy reliable performance and versatile integration for your home audio system.
$1499.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
421
/ 1684
#421 in Power Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-82%
Below average
Continuous Output Power
8508
/ x W @ Ohms (all channels driven)
Who it's for
- Custom installers needing versatile configuration for complex multi-room audio setups
- System designers maximizing space in dense, heat-sensitive equipment racks
- Audiophiles requiring consistent, reliable power for long-term installation stability
Who should skip it
- Listeners powering demanding, low-sensitivity speakers in critical listening rooms
- Users seeking an all-in-one solution without external pre-amplification components
- Budget-conscious buyers planning large-scale, multi-zone audio installations
Performance breakdown
Multi-zone Versatility
Eight channels provide seamless audio distribution across four distinct stereo zones.
Power Efficiency
Class D switching technology keeps heat low and energy consumption minimal.
Installation Flexibility
Compact 2U rack-mount design fits easily into professional custom audio setups.
Sonic Accuracy
Maintains NAD's signature musicality with impressively low total harmonic distortion.
Drive Capability
Bridgeable channels offer extra headroom for more demanding speaker configurations.
System Reliability
Comprehensive circuit protection ensures long-term stability for continuous daily operation.
Key Specs
Continuous Output Power
8 x 50W @ 8 Ohms (all channels driven)
Bridge Mode Output Power
120W @ 8 Ohms
Rated Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)
<0.03%
Frequency Response
20Hz-20kHz ±1dB
Signal/Noise Ratio
>100dB (A-Weighted)
Dimensions
483 x 105 x 323mm (19 1/16 x 4 3/16 x 12 3/4”)
Net Weight
5.72kg (12.61 lbs)
Standby Power Consumption
<0.5W
Features
- 8 channels for 4 stereo zones
- Bridgeable for higher power output
- High-efficiency switching amplifier
- Handles demanding speaker loads
- Multiple auto-on power options
- Compact 2U rack-mountable design
- Input gain adjustment for each zone
- Full circuit protection for longevity
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the NAD CI 980 for its exceptional reliability and superior sound quality, making it a benchmark for multi-zone audio. Installers value its robust, durable build, ensuring long term performance in hidden setups. The amplifier delivers a clean, powerful, and detailed sonic signature across all zones. A key feature is its efficient Class D design, which allows the unit to run remarkably cool, solving common heat issues. Flexibility is high due to bridgeable channels for increased power delivery where needed. While positioned as a premium component, users agree the CI 980 offers outstanding value because of its consistent stability and high fidelity performance compared to competitors.
Know before you buy
The NAD CI 980 is designed specifically for four stereo zones. If your project requires more zones, you can daisy-chain multiple units together using the provided input connections.
Bridging allows you to combine two channels into one, effectively doubling the power output to 120 watts per channel. This is useful if you have a specific room or pair of speakers that requires more power than the standard 50 watts.
No, the CI 980 uses high-efficiency Class D switching technology, which generates significantly less heat than traditional amplifiers. Its compact 2U design is specifically engineered for reliable, cool operation in custom rack installations.
Yes, the unit features individual input gain adjustments for each of the four zones. This allows you to balance the volume levels across different rooms or compensate for varying speaker sensitivities.
The CI 980 offers multiple auto-on power options, including signal sensing, which automatically wakes the amplifier when it detects an audio signal. This makes it ideal for hidden installations where you don't want to manually toggle a power switch.
Yes, the CI 980 is built to handle demanding speaker loads, including 4-ohm configurations. It is designed to maintain stable performance even when driving lower-impedance speakers.
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