NAD C 538 CD Compact Disc Player
Best high-fidelity player for audiophiles seeking pure, precise sound quality.
Experience exceptional audio with the NAD C 538 Compact Disc Player, a testament to NAD's dedication to high-performance, affordable sound. Its robust mechanical design minimizes vibration for precise CD playback. A premium Wolfson 24-bit DAC ensures accurate digital-to-analog conversion, delivering pure audio fidelity. This player handles standard CDs and CD-R/RW discs with MP3 and WMA files, offering versatile media support. Connect seamlessly to your system via optical or coaxial digital outputs, and enjoy effortless control with the included full-function remote.
$319.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
110
/ 239
#110 in CD Players & Recorders
Price vs Category Average
-93%
Below average
Digital-to-Analog Converter
24
/ Wolfson bit DAC
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound on a modest budget
- Minimalists prioritizing long-term durability and clean aesthetics
- System builders wanting flexible connections to external DACs
Who should skip it
- Digital listeners requiring USB connectivity or network streaming
- Users needing a highly visible display from across the room
- Collectors of high-resolution SACD or DVD-Audio discs
Performance breakdown
Audio Fidelity
Wolfson DAC delivers clean, nuanced sound for discerning listeners.
Build Integrity
Robust mechanical design effectively minimizes vibration for stable playback.
Format Versatility
Handles standard discs and data files with reliable, straightforward performance.
System Integration
Optical and coaxial outputs offer seamless connectivity for modern stereo setups.
Operational Ease
Intuitive remote control makes navigating your music library effortless.
Signal Clarity
Shortened signal paths ensure minimal interference for a pure audio output.
Key Specs
Digital-to-Analog Converter
Wolfson 24 bit DAC
Analog Output Level
2.2 ± 0.1 V
Frequency Response
±0.5 dB (20 Hz-20 kHz)
Total Harmonic Distortion
≤0.01% (ref. 1 kHz)
Dimensions (Gross)
435 x 70 x 249 mm
Weight
3.0 kg
Supported Media
CD, CD-R/RW, MP3, WMA
Standby Power Consumption
<0.5W
Features
- High-quality Wolfson 24-bit DAC for superior sound
- Plays standard CDs and MP3/WMA data discs
- Minimized vibration for precise disc reading
- Versatile optical and coaxial digital outputs
- Full-function remote for convenient operation
- Supports CD-R/RW playback
- Short signal paths for audio clarity
- Dimmable display for track information
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the NAD C 538 for its exceptional value and pure audio fidelity. The core theme is its ability to deliver clean, detailed, and natural sound reproduction, significantly enhancing existing CD collections. Reviewers appreciate the noticeable improvement in clarity and depth compared to other players. Its minimalist design and straightforward operation appeal to those prioritizing audio performance over extra features. This player is viewed as a reliable component that embodies NAD's dependable quality. For budget conscious audiophiles seeking outstanding CD playback, the C 538 represents a superb investment in high fidelity.
Know before you buy
Yes. The NAD C 538 features both optical and coaxial digital outputs, allowing you to bypass the internal Wolfson DAC and connect the player to an external high-end DAC or an integrated amplifier with digital inputs.
It does. The C 538 is compatible with standard CDs, CD-R, and CD-RW discs, and it can play back MP3 and WMA audio files burned onto those discs.
No, this model does not include a USB port. It is designed specifically for playing physical media, such as CDs and data discs.
Yes, the player supports programmable track playback, which allows you to create a custom listening sequence using the included full-function remote.
Not at all. The C 538 features a dimmable LCD display, allowing you to reduce the brightness to suit your environment or turn it down during critical listening sessions.
The C 538 does not feature electronic anti-skip protection. It is designed as a home stereo component meant for stable, vibration-free surfaces to ensure the highest audio fidelity.
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