NAD Electronics C 588 2-Speed Turntable
Best high-fidelity turntable for vinyl enthusiasts seeking precise, resonance-free audio playback.
Discover exceptional vinyl playback with the NAD C 588 turntable. Engineered to reveal the subtle details in your records, it minimizes unwanted resonances for pure audio fidelity. Its belt-driven system, powered by a precision AC motor and isolated power supply, ensures remarkable speed stability. The custom 9-inch carbon fiber tonearm, paired with a factory-installed Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, delivers precise tracking. A rigid MDF plinth and resonance-dampening isolation feet further enhance sound clarity, making it a sophisticated addition to any audio setup.
$999.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
102
/ 690
#102 in Turntables & Record Players
Price vs Category Average
-77%
Below average
Nominal speed
334578
/ / RPM ( RPM possible with special pulley)
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking immediate high-fidelity performance without complex setup
- Listeners demanding pitch-perfect playback and minimal speed instability
- Vinyl collectors prioritizing precise tracking and reduced sonic resonance
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers wanting an all-in-one plug-and-play solution
- Casual listeners preferring the convenience of automatic tonearm operation
- Design enthusiasts expecting premium aesthetics across every component
Performance breakdown
Speed Stability
Precision AC motor ensures consistent playback with minimal wow and flutter.
Tracking Precision
Carbon fiber tonearm offers excellent rigidity for accurate groove navigation.
Resonance Control
MDF plinth and isolation feet effectively dampen unwanted mechanical vibrations.
Cartridge Performance
The included Ortofon 2M Red provides a reliable, high-fidelity entry point.
Setup Complexity
Manual operation and adjustment requirements demand a patient, hands-on approach.
Build Integrity
Solid construction materials reflect a thoughtful, audiophile-grade design philosophy.
Key Specs
Nominal speed
33/45 RPM (78 RPM possible with special pulley)
Speed variance (45 RPM)
< ±0.30%
Wow and flutter (33 RPM)
< ±0.12%
Signal-to-noise ratio
-70dB
Tonearm effective length
230mm
Cartridge supplied
Ortofon 2M Red
Power
Universal switch mode power supply: 100 - 240V AC
Dimensions
17-1/8" x 13-7/16" x 4-15/16"
Features
- Precision AC motor for stable speed
- 9” carbon fiber tonearm for rigidity
- Factory-installed Ortofon 2M Red cartridge
- Resonance-dampening isolation feet
- Rigid MDF plinth construction
- Supports 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM speeds
- Detachable high-quality RCA cable
- VTA and Azimuth adjustment
What customers say
The C 588 turntable earns high marks for its superior build quality and impressive sound. Users frequently commend the tonearm's precision and the Ortofon cartridge's clarity, noting a substantial improvement in their listening experience. Its elegantly minimalist design complements modern audio systems beautifully. While a significant purchase, the exceptional audio fidelity and dependable performance make the C 588 a worthwhile investment for dedicated vinyl lovers seeking outstanding value and reliable operation.
Know before you buy
No, the C 588 does not include a built-in phono preamp. You will need to connect it to an external phono stage or an amplifier with a dedicated phono input to achieve proper sound levels and equalization.
Yes, the C 588 supports 78 RPM playback. However, please note that playing 78s requires a specific pulley and a compatible stylus, which are not included with the standard package.
Yes, the turntable comes with the Ortofon 2M Red cartridge factory-installed and aligned. This allows you to start listening shortly after unboxing once you have completed the basic setup steps.
No, the NAD C 588 does not include a dust cover. You may want to consider a third-party universal cover if you need to protect the platter and tonearm from dust accumulation.
Yes, the C 588 provides VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle) and Azimuth adjustments. These features allow experienced users to fine-tune the tonearm setup for optimal tracking and sound performance.
The belt-drive system isolates the platter from the motor's vibrations, which helps reduce noise and interference. Combined with the precision AC motor, this design ensures consistent speed stability for a cleaner, more accurate playback experience.
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