NAD C 388 Stereo Integrated Amp with DAC and Bluetooth
Best high-fidelity amplifier for audiophiles seeking versatile, future-proof home audio.
Experience superior audio with the NAD C 388 Hybrid Digital DAC Amplifier. This amplifier delivers powerful, low-noise performance, effortlessly driving demanding speakers with its Asymmetrical PowerDrive™ technology. Enjoy seamless wireless music streaming via BluOS and Bluetooth, and connect to all your audio sources. Built with a modular design for future upgrades, the C 388 is the versatile heart of any high-fidelity home audio system, offering exceptional value and flexibility for discerning listeners.
$1095.00
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Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
421
/ 1684
#421 in Power Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-87%
Below average
Model Number
388
/ C
Who it's for
- Audiophiles driving demanding speakers needing clean, high-wattage power
- Future-focused owners wanting to avoid equipment obsolescence
- Versatile listeners connecting diverse analog and digital sources
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers wary of hidden upgrade costs
- Minimalists with limited shelf space or small racks
- Tech enthusiasts preferring modern, high-resolution graphical interfaces
Performance breakdown
Power Delivery
Asymmetrical PowerDrive technology handles demanding speaker loads with effortless, clean authority.
Streaming Versatility
BluOS integration provides a robust, high-resolution ecosystem for modern digital music.
Future-Proofing
Modular design allows for hardware upgrades to keep pace with evolving technology.
DAC Performance
Integrated digital-to-analog conversion delivers precise, low-noise audio from all digital sources.
Connectivity Options
Comprehensive input selection bridges the gap between legacy gear and wireless streaming.
Build Integrity
Solid construction ensures reliable, long-term performance in any high-fidelity home setup.
Key Specs
Model Number
C 388
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (via BluOS module)
Integrated DAC
Yes
Power Source Type
AC Powered
MPN
C 388 BluOS
Additional Feature
Asymmetrical PowerDrive™ technology
Output Connector Types
Binding Post
Wireless Connectivity Technologies
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Features
- Hybrid Digital DAC Amplifier design
- Wireless music streaming via BluOS
- Instant Bluetooth connectivity
- Drives demanding speakers effectively
- Modular design for future upgrades
- Manages music libraries via network
- Exceptional value in amplification
- Top of its class in affordable amplification
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the NAD C 388 for its exceptional sound quality, noting its powerful, clear, and detailed audio delivery across various speakers. The integrated DAC significantly enhances digital sources, and the included Bluetooth offers convenient modern connectivity. A key highlight is the Modular Design Construction, which future proofs the unit by allowing upgrades like BluOS streaming, ensuring longevity. Build quality is consistently described as robust and premium. While minor critiques exist regarding the control app and front display, these are overshadowed by the amplifier's stellar performance and versatile feature set. It is viewed as a comprehensive, high-performance solution blending audiophile quality with essential modern flexibility.
Know before you buy
The Hybrid Digital design combines the efficiency of Class D amplification with high-performance digital-to-analog conversion. This results in a clean, powerful sound that maintains low noise levels even when driving demanding speakers.
The C 388 features a modular construction that allows you to add or upgrade internal components as technology evolves. This helps future-proof your system, ensuring you can add new features or connectivity options without replacing the entire amplifier.
Yes, you can stream music instantly using the built-in Bluetooth connectivity. For higher-resolution streaming and multi-room audio, you can also utilize the BluOS module to connect the amplifier to your home network.
The C 388 is designed to drive demanding speakers effectively thanks to NAD’s Asymmetrical PowerDrive technology. This allows the amplifier to deliver high dynamic power, ensuring your speakers perform at their best even during complex musical passages.
No, the C 388 has a high-quality DAC built directly into the unit. You can connect your digital sources, such as CD players or streamers, directly to the amplifier's digital inputs.
The amplifier uses standard binding post connectors on the rear panel. These are compatible with most high-quality speaker cables, including those terminated with banana plugs or spade lugs.
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