Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Excellent tonality
- Wide dynamics
- Accurate imaging
- Fantastic build quality
Product Considerations
- Questionable value proposition for some
- Not suitable for every system
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Not an inferior DAC to Gordon
- Beats the Blackback at soundstage
- Has better measured performance than the Topping
- Better than Benchmark at soundstage
- Has better clarity than Denafrips
Takeaway: Great, but only if it complements the existing system. Be sure to listen before buying.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
C 328
reviews
[{"title":"NAD C 328 Integrated Amplifier-DAC","link":"https://www.soundstageaccess.com/index.php/equipment-reviews/886-nad-c328-integrated-amplifier-dac","source":"SoundStage! Access","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"NAD C 328 Hybrid Digital DAC Amplifier and C 546BEE CD Player","link":"https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/nad-c-328-hybrid-digital-dac-amplifier-and-c-546bee-cd-player","source":"The Absolute Sound","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"NAD C 328 integrated amplifier","link":"https://www.stereophile.com/content/nad-c-328-integrated-amplifier","source":"Stereophile","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"NAD C 328 Hybrid Digital DAC Integrated Amplifier Review","link":"https://hometheaterhifi.com/reviews/amplifier/integrated-amplifiers/nad-c-328-hybrid-digital-dac-integrated-amplifier-review","source":"Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"[Sound Battle] REGA BRIO vs NAD C328 / KEF R3 Bookshelf Speakers","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_GN3T95_yTU","source":"樂四季音響MUSEASONS AUDIO","datePublished":"2023"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Continuous output power: 50W (8 Ohms and 4 Ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz)
- THD (20 Hz – 20 kHz): <0.03% (100 mW to 40 W, 8 ohms and 4 ohms)
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >95 dB (A-weighted, 500 mV input, ref. 1 W out 8 ohms)
- Frequency response: ±0.3 dB (20 Hz – 20 kHz)
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 435 x 70 x 285 mm (17 1/8 x 2 13/16 x 11 1/4″)
- Net weight: 4.9 kg (10.8 lbs)
- Shipping weight: 5.9 kg (13.0 lbs)
- Power consumption ECO Standby: 0.5 Watts
- Power consumption Control Standby: 0.6 Watts
Description
For 45 years, NAD Electronics has introduced aspiring audiophiles to the vast world of hi-fi. From our flagship Masters Series, to our budget-friendly Classic Series, NAD has a component for everyone. Following in the footsteps of some of NAD's greatest units, the NAD C 328 delivers the most fundamental of features, while firmly adhering to NAD's unwavering commitment to exquisite sound.
For 45 years, NAD Electronics has introduced aspiring audiophiles to the vast world of hi-fi. From our flagship Masters Series, to our budget-friendly Classic Series, NAD has a component for everyone.
Following in the footsteps of some of NAD's greatest units, the NAD C 328 delivers the most fundamental of features, while firmly adhering to NAD's unwavering commitment to exquisite sound. The C 328 can wirelessly connect to any smartphone, tablet, or Bluetooth®-enabled device within range, to give you a seamless listening experience.
Featuring a MM phono input, the C 328 breathes new life into vinyl LPs, thanks in part to NAD's innovative Hybrid Digital™ amp technology. The C 328 also features a headphone amplifier, letting you connect your favourite headphones and settle back into your own world of detailed sound.
Although more modest in comparison to other Classic Series amplifiers, the C 328 will fit perfectly into your existing system and bring you the musical nirvana you've been searching for.
Following in the footsteps of some of NAD's greatest units, the NAD C 328 delivers the most fundamental of features, while firmly adhering to NAD's unwavering commitment to exquisite sound. The C 328 can wirelessly connect to any smartphone, tablet, or Bluetooth®-enabled device within range, to give you a seamless listening experience.
Featuring a MM phono input, the C 328 breathes new life into vinyl LPs, thanks in part to NAD's innovative Hybrid Digital™ amp technology. The C 328 also features a headphone amplifier, letting you connect your favourite headphones and settle back into your own world of detailed sound.
Although more modest in comparison to other Classic Series amplifiers, the C 328 will fit perfectly into your existing system and bring you the musical nirvana you've been searching for.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- NAD focuses on delivering high power and good sound at a reasonable price point, reflecting a core tenet of the brand's philosophy.
- NAD uses Class D amplification, specifically Purifi Eigentakt or Hypex nCore modules, to deliver efficient and cool-running performance.
- BluOS integration allows NAD products to be part of a multi-room audio system that allows one to explore music services without speculation.
Select products
Select product comparisons
C 379 Hybrid Digital DAC Amplifier:
- Positioning: Part of NAD's Classic Series, offering a balance of performance and value.
- Description: Features HybridDigital UcD amplification and ESS SABRE DAC, providing exceptional sonic detail and clarity. Compared to the C 3050, it offers more power and digital connectivity options, making it suitable for larger rooms and those seeking advanced streaming capabilities.
C 3050 Stereophonic Amplifier:
- Positioning: A retro-inspired model in the Classic Series, blending vintage design with modern technology.
- Description: With its HybridDigital UcD amplifier and Texas Instruments DAC, delivers a warm, detailed sound. It offers a more traditional aesthetic compared to the C 379, appealing to those who value classic design and straightforward functionality without extensive digital features.
M10 V3 BluOS Streaming Amplifier:
- Positioning: A compact, high-performance streaming amplifier in the Masters Series, designed for modern music streaming.
- Description: Combines a powerful amplifier with BluOS streaming, offering a sleek design and versatile connectivity. It is more compact and stylish than the C 399.
M33 BluOS Streaming DAC Amplifier:
- Positioning: NAD's flagship streaming amplifier in the Masters Series, offering top-tier performance and features.
- Description: Uses Purifi Eigentakt amplification and advanced Dirac Live room correction, delivering outstanding sound quality. It offers more power and sophisticated room correction than the M10 V3.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
295
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
6
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
41
Founding Year
1972
Our take on the brand
NAD Electronics pioneered affordable hifi equipment by focusing on essential features for good sound, with their classic NAD 3020 becoming the best-selling hifi amplifier in history. Their Masters Series features DirectDigital technology, the world's first closed-loop digital amplification that corrects output every 10 nanoseconds.
Look inside the brand
Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
What's your approach to customer support?
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
What other products pair best with yours?
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NAD
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What if you spend more?
MOON
250i v2
2400
2400
/
8
Reviews
MOON by Simaudio is known for their warm and natural "MOON sound," achieved through their proprietary Lynx circuit that eliminates global-feedback loop in their amplifiers. Their products feature fully balanced circuitry and customizable interfaces, with designs that minimize noise and distortion while revealing intricate audio details without harshness.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Open, neutral, and extremely rewarding sound quality
- Excellent phono stage and headphone amplifier
- Beautifully made with a solid build quality
- Transparent sound allows the listener to shape the system's character
- Integrated amp can be partnered to double down on transparency or to shape the system you want
Product Considerations
- Remote control can be a bit difficult to use in low light
- Offers less functionality compared to some rivals at the same price point
- Some reviewers found certain performances to be slightly cool
- Volume adjustments with the remote control could be more sophisticated
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The MOON 250i v2 sounds more open than the MOON 600i v2
- The MOON 250i V2 is not as tactile in the treble region, when compared to Naim Nait XS 3
- The MOON 250i V2 has more bite in the treble region, when compared to Exposure 3510
- The Pass Labs amplifier has a more transparent—involving sound, when compared to the MOON 250i V2
Takeaway: The MOON 250i v2 is a well-made amplifier that delivers transparent sound quality suitable for various audio systems and listening preferences. It is a great choice for those looking for quality audio reproduction without needing all the latest digital features.
Video review
Our take on the brand
MOON by Simaudio is known for their warm and natural "MOON sound," achieved through their proprietary Lynx circuit that eliminates global-feedback loop in their amplifiers. Their products feature fully balanced circuitry and customizable interfaces, with designs that minimize noise and distortion while revealing intricate audio details without harshness.
Product Page
Product Page
Vincent
SV-500MK
1499
1499
/
2
Reviews
Vincent Audio specializes in hybrid amplifiers that combine tubes and transistors, with their flagship models using military-grade tubes rated for 10,000 hours and Russian tubes for pre-amplification. Their amplifiers feature unique engineering choices like the BestPentode circuit and switchable Class A/AB operation, all designed to deliver a harmonious blend of subtle vocal reproduction and powerful rock stage dynamics.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Builds upon the foundation of its predecessor, the SV-500, by adding HDMI and Bluetooth connectivity
- Features a hybrid vacuum tube and solid-state design, combining tube warmth with solid-state power
- Integrated DAC supports digital input signals, and a built-in Bluetooth module supports modern codecs like aptX and AAC
- Offers versatility by functioning as a standalone preamplifier or DAC, in addition to being an integrated amplifier
Product Considerations
- The omission of a phono pre-amplifier is a mistake
- Absence of a subwoofer output feels like another lost opportunity
- The trademark Vincent porthole that allows one to see inside the amplifier and the glowing tubes is also not part of the package
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Vincent Audio SV-737: The SV-500 MK may not offer the power of the SV-737, but 50 watts might be enough for a lot high-sensitivity bookshelf and floor standing loudspeakers
Takeaway: The SV-500 MK is a versatile amplifier with modern features like HDMI and Bluetooth, combined with the classic warmth of tubes. Its hybrid design and multiple functionalities make it worth considering for those seeking a balance of old and new.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Vincent Audio specializes in hybrid amplifiers that combine tubes and transistors, with their flagship models using military-grade tubes rated for 10,000 hours and Russian tubes for pre-amplification. Their amplifiers feature unique engineering choices like the BestPentode circuit and switchable Class A/AB operation, all designed to deliver a harmonious blend of subtle vocal reproduction and powerful rock stage dynamics.
Product Page
Product Page
NAD
C 700
1349
1349
/
16
Reviews
The way people discover and experience music has shifted profoundly. Today’s listeners can stream music from vast catalogues over the Internet, often with better sound quality than discs can deliver. To simplify music selection, streaming services offer discovery tools like curated playlists and recommendation engines. Wireless multi-room audio lets listeners enjoy music throughout their homes. The NAD C 700 BluOS Streaming Amplifier is a compact, “just add speakers” solution that embraces all the possibilities of the streaming age, offering state-of-the-art amplification that will transport you to your favourite musical destination.
NAD Electronics pioneered affordable hifi equipment by focusing on essential features for good sound, with their classic NAD 3020 becoming the best-selling hifi amplifier in history. Their Masters Series features DirectDigital technology, the world's first closed-loop digital amplification that corrects output every 10 nanoseconds.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- BluOS integration offers a slick interface with robust functionality, lossless streaming, and great sound quality
- Compact form factor and lightweight design make it easy to place in various settings
- The 5-inch color display shows album art and track information, contributing to a sleek and sophisticated user experience
- HDMI eARC input allows for easy connection to smart TVs for enhanced audio
- A wide array of connectivity options is available, including digital and analog inputs, pre-outs, and a subwoofer output
Product Considerations
- Lacks a phono stage input for direct connection of turntables without a preamp
- Not a touchscreen
- May sound flat or experience coloration at its peak volume levels
- May lack the macro dynamics of a more powerful amplifier—better suited for efficient speakers and smaller rooms
- Some reviewers found it does not pause playback from the main unit, only mutes it
Takeaway: The NAD C 700 is a versatile streaming amplifier with a compact design and a wide range of features, making it a great option for those seeking a simple way to enjoy high-resolution music. Its intuitive BluOS platform and various connectivity options make it a convenient centerpiece for a modern audio setup
Video review
Our take on the brand
NAD Electronics pioneered affordable hifi equipment by focusing on essential features for good sound, with their classic NAD 3020 becoming the best-selling hifi amplifier in history. Their Masters Series features DirectDigital technology, the world's first closed-loop digital amplification that corrects output every 10 nanoseconds.
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What competes at this price?
NAD
AMP1
660
/
Released
2022
The AMP1 adds big sound to your favourite music sources and brings incredible flexibility to any stereo system. This hi-fi amplifier has Chromecast built-in, and allows you to stream and cast music directly from a mobile device or any music streaming app, letting you enjoy your music wirelessly. With Bluetooth® also natively integrated, the AMP1 can wirelessly connect to any smart phone, tablet, or Bluetooth-enabled device within range so you seamlessly stream your favourite music apps or libraries in high-fidelity.
NAD Electronics pioneered affordable hifi equipment by focusing on essential features for good sound, with their classic NAD 3020 becoming the best-selling hifi amplifier in history. Their Masters Series features DirectDigital technology, the world's first closed-loop digital amplification that corrects output every 10 nanoseconds.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Warm, rich, and inviting sound with a good midrange focus and fine sound bottom
- Easy to use and connect to the network via Chromecast streaming
- Includes turntable input for MM pickups, plus an analogue line input and a preamp output
Product Considerations
- Not among the most powerful amps and can loosen its grip when the volume is cranked up
- May not shine quite so much upwards in the harmonics
- Doesn't have an Ethernet connector, so it needs to be somewhere with good Wi-Fi coverage
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sonos Amp—the NAD Amp1 sounds better
Takeaway: The NAD Amp1 is easy to use and offers a pleasant listening experience with a warm sound. If you want a small amplifier with Chromecast streaming and turntable input, this could be a great fit.
Video review
Our take on the brand
NAD Electronics pioneered affordable hifi equipment by focusing on essential features for good sound, with their classic NAD 3020 becoming the best-selling hifi amplifier in history. Their Masters Series features DirectDigital technology, the world's first closed-loop digital amplification that corrects output every 10 nanoseconds.
Product Page
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Pro-Ject
MaiA S3
799
/
Released
2022
The MaiA S3 is the all in one solution for your hifi system. Not only the circuit design was reworked, also the case has been significantly changed and the MaiA S3 uses our new S3 case. Due to the bigger size we were able to improve the circuit board layout in terms of electromagnetical interference. With its 8 inputs you are ready for any kind of source device.
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Noted for its impossibly small and ultra-compact size, making it suitable for compact living spaces
- Offers a feature-rich design with an integrated phono stage, aptX HD Bluetooth connectivity, and additional RCA and TOSLINK digital inputs
- The unit runs cool due to its Class D amplifier design, making it energy-efficient
- Connectivity is praised, particularly the aptX HD Bluetooth, which delivers superior streaming quality
- Delivers a lively and engaging sound with excellent detail across phono and digital connections
Product Considerations
- The limited power output (23W at 8 ohms, 40W at 4 ohms) may be better suited to smaller listening spaces and efficient loudspeakers
- Some reviewers found the bass to be slightly lean, lacking heft or roundness
- The included remote control's button configuration for volume and input selection is unconventional
- The phono stage may benefit from an upgrade with an external phono amplifier for improved performance
- One reviewer found the line out voltage for the subwoofer is not strong enough to drive a powered sub
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Pro-Ject Stereobox DS2, the MaiA S3 is more affordable and has digital inputs and superior Bluetooth connectivity
- Compared to the Rega Io, the MaiA S3 has strength in depth—specifically referring to the detail across the line, phono and digital connections
- The MaiA S3 is described as more resolving and ultra clean compared to the Rotel amplifier, with the Rotel offering a slightly more colored and warm sound
- Compared to the Technics amplifier, moving to the MaiA S3 results in a faster transit response, especially noticeable in classical music, while the Technics sounds slow in comparison
Takeaway: The Pro-Ject MaiA S3 is a compact and versatile integrated amplifier that delivers impressive sound quality and a range of connectivity options, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles with limited space. It is especially appealing to vinyl enthusiasts looking for a convenient and high-performing solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Product Page
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Arcam
A5
699
/
Released
2023
The ARCAM A5 is for those intimate listening experiences with your favourite music. The "A" in ARCAM stands for Amplification - this is our core competence. The A5 is the latest in more than 45 years of amplifier design and manufacture, going back to our first product in 1976 - the A&R Cambridge A60 amplifier.
Arcam is a hifi brand known for its unique Class G amplifier technology, which uses multiple power supplies that switch based on demand to achieve both high efficiency and pure Class A sound at low volumes. Their AV receivers and processors stand out for their use of Dirac Live Bass Control technology, which precisely optimizes subwoofers to improve in-room performance and reduce room modes.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Pleasant, smooth, and relaxed playback
- More insight and tightness in the music
- Much insight into sound and musical structure
- A fresh and modern-looking product with a clean and unfussy exterior, which looks simple yet elegant
- Manages a difficult balancing act superbly—forgiving enough not to emphasise the shortcomings of limited partnering equipment, yet still having the insight and transparency to make the most of more capable signals
Product Considerations
- The front panel display lacks crispness due to the 'frosted' finish
- The speaker terminals don't offer a great deal of space
- The back panel itself shows a certain amount of flexibility, which is a little worrying in terms of longevity
- The power on paper is a little optimistic
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Atoll IN50: The Atoll plays a bit bigger, but Arcam gives more insight and tightness
- Vs Cambridge Audio Azur 840A: The Arcam A5's midrange and voice reproduction that the Cambridge just couldn't quite match
Takeaway: The Arcam A5 is a well-rounded performer that plays music enjoyably without getting in the way and is affordable, feature-rich and uncomplicated. It is a great amp for someone looking for a balance of performance and features.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Arcam is a hifi brand known for its unique Class G amplifier technology, which uses multiple power supplies that switch based on demand to achieve both high efficiency and pure Class A sound at low volumes. Their AV receivers and processors stand out for their use of Dirac Live Bass Control technology, which precisely optimizes subwoofers to improve in-room performance and reduce room modes.
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Rotel
A10MKII
599
/
Released
2023
The A10MKII Integrated Amplifier offers the perfect combination of power and style for the music lover seeking to elevate their listening experience.
Rotel is a family-owned hifi brand that maintains control over its entire manufacturing process, including producing their own custom toroidal transformers for superior audio performance. Through their Balanced Design Concept and Michi high-end line, Rotel focuses on long-term product development cycles rather than frequent launches, emphasizing genuine performance improvements through careful component selection and circuit design.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality with a robust aluminum facade
- Delivers 40 watts per channel of clean, musical power in pure Class AB
- Characterized by natural tonal balance, excellent micro-dynamics, and precise imaging
- Offers versatile analog connectivity with 5 RCA inputs, a dedicated MM phono stage, a 3.5mm auxiliary input, and tape output
- Delivers excellent value for money and simple, intuitive operation
Product Considerations
- Lacks digital inputs, which maintains signal purity
- Does not have a headphone output
- Power output may not suit very large rooms
Takeaway: The Rotel A10MKII offers pure analog amplification with musicality and engaging sound, making it great for both new and experienced audiophiles. Its clean sound and quality build make it a compelling choice for enjoying music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Rotel is a family-owned hifi brand that maintains control over its entire manufacturing process, including producing their own custom toroidal transformers for superior audio performance. Through their Balanced Design Concept and Michi high-end line, Rotel focuses on long-term product development cycles rather than frequent launches, emphasizing genuine performance improvements through careful component selection and circuit design.
Product Page
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Advance Paris
X-i50 BT
799
/
Released
The X-i50BT, with its resolutely audiophile design, allows connection of numerous analog sources including the possibility to use a turntable.
Advance Paris is known for integrating tube preamps with solid-state amplification, delivering a warm and dynamic sound that rivals more expensive brands like McIntosh, while offering rare features like HDMI ARC connectivity in their stereo amplifiers. Their products stand out with illuminated VU meters and dual-mono designs using separate toroidal transformers for each channel, while providing high-end features like built-in DACs and phono stages at mid-range prices.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent sound quality due to class A type technology
- A fair selection of analogue inputs, including a turntable input
- Stylish design with a perspex front fascia and steel case
- Detailed and engaging sound
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming from smart devices
Product Considerations
- USB input only offers MP3 playback
- Class A type technology runs at higher temperatures
Takeaway: The X-i50BT is a good amp that can drive speakers well and sounds great. It has many ways to connect devices, making it a useful addition to any audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Advance Paris is known for integrating tube preamps with solid-state amplification, delivering a warm and dynamic sound that rivals more expensive brands like McIntosh, while offering rare features like HDMI ARC connectivity in their stereo amplifiers. Their products stand out with illuminated VU meters and dual-mono designs using separate toroidal transformers for each channel, while providing high-end features like built-in DACs and phono stages at mid-range prices.
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