NAD Electronics
C 399 Hybrid Digital DAC Amplifier
Best high-fidelity hub for audiophiles seeking future-proof performance and versatility.
The NAD C 399 is a powerful integrated amplifier from the Classic Series, featuring advanced HybridDigital nCore amplification technology that delivers 180 watts per channel of continuous power. It utilizes a high-resolution 32-bit/384kHz ESS Sabre DAC for neutral, distortion-free sound with thrilling dynamics and exquisite detail. A key innovation is the MDC2 Modular Design Construction, allowing future upgrades like Hi-Res multi-room streaming via BluOS or Dirac Live room correction. Connectivity is comprehensive, including HDMI-eARC, MM phono input, digital/analog inputs, and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, positioning it as the versatile hub for a world-class music system.
$3299.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
186
/ 704
#186 in Audio & Video Receivers
Price vs Category Average
+25%
Above average
Power Output
18084
/ watts per channel continuous ( ohms and ohms)
Who it's for
- Audiophiles prioritizing precise and powerful sound reproduction
- Listeners wanting to upgrade features incrementally over time
- Home theater enthusiasts needing power for demanding speaker setups
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking high-performance value
- Shoppers expecting all-inclusive features out of the box
- Users with limited shelf or rack space
Performance breakdown
Amplification Power
HybridDigital nCore technology drives demanding speakers with effortless, clean authority.
Digital Precision
ESS Sabre DAC delivers exceptional clarity and nuance for high-resolution audio.
Future-Proofing
MDC2 architecture ensures your system evolves alongside emerging streaming technologies.
Connectivity Versatility
Comprehensive inputs seamlessly bridge modern digital sources and classic analog turntables.
TV Integration
HDMI-eARC support makes high-fidelity audio a simple upgrade for home cinema.
Signal Integrity
Ultra-low distortion levels maintain sonic purity even at high volume outputs.
Key Specs
Power Output
180 watts per channel continuous (8 ohms and 4 ohms)
DAC
ESS Sabre ES9028Q2M
Supported Sample Rate
up to 24 bit/192kHz
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)
<0.02% (20Hz - 20kHz)
Signal To Noise Ratio
>95dB (A-Weighted)
Connectivity
Two Optical, Two Coax, HDMI eARC, Two Line Inputs, Phono Input
Bluetooth Version
aptX HD
Weight
24.7 lbs
Features
- HybridDigital nCore amplification technology
- High-resolution 32-bit/384kHz ESS Sabre DAC
- MDC2 Modular Design for future upgrades
- Supports optional BluOS Hi-Res streaming
- Includes HDMI-eARC for TV integration
- Built-in Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and aptX HD Bluetooth
- MM phono input for turntables
- Low noise and distortion across all conditions
What customers say
The NAD C 399 earns high praise for its exceptional versatility and modern performance. Customers consistently highlight the robust, dynamic sound signature delivered by the Hybrid Digital architecture, noting its detailed clarity across all frequencies. The integrated ESS Sabre DAC is a key feature, providing pristine digital conversion. A major source of satisfaction is the future proofing offered by the MDC2 modular design. Users especially value the seamless integration of optional modules like BluOS and Dirac Live room correction, which significantly tailors the audio to the listening space. While the total investment increases with modules, the C 399 is celebrated as a high value centerpiece offering true high fidelity.
Know before you buy
MDC2 allows you to add future hardware modules to the amplifier, such as BluOS streaming or Dirac Live room correction. This ensures your system can evolve with new technologies without needing to replace the entire unit.
Yes, the C 399 includes a dedicated Moving Magnet (MM) phono input. This allows you to connect your turntable directly without needing an external phono preamplifier.
The HDMI-eARC port allows you to connect your TV directly to the amplifier using a single cable. This lets you control the volume of your audio system using your existing TV remote while enjoying high-quality sound through your speakers.
With 180 watts of continuous power per channel into both 8 and 4 ohms, the C 399 is designed to handle most high-performance speakers with ease. Its HybridDigital nCore technology provides high current, ensuring stable performance even with complex speaker loads.
The C 399 includes aptX HD Bluetooth for wireless streaming from your devices. For full high-resolution multi-room streaming, you can add the optional MDC2 BluOS-D module.
The ESS Sabre DAC is known for its neutral, transparent, and highly detailed sound. It minimizes distortion, allowing you to hear the subtle nuances and dynamics in your music exactly as they were recorded.
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$3299