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
- A brilliant example of value engineering, similar to the C 399 but with more modest amplification
- Speaker-level outputs can be bridged to provide up to 300W of continuous mono power
- Upgradable via MDC2 slot, allowing addition of Wi-Fi, ethernet, Dirac Live, and BluOS streaming
- Offers a lot of connectivity, both analog and digital, including HDMI eARC, optical/coaxial digital ins, phono stage, line-level inputs, and dual subwoofer outputs
- Capable of delivering rich and robust bass
Product Considerations
- Lacks a USB-DAC connection
- The BluOS app named the zone "C389-24A" instead of "C379," requiring manual renaming
- The review sample came with the Bridge Mode switch flipped to On (Mono), which could cause problems if a pair of speakers were connected
- The temporary auto-mute that engages when plugging in and unplugging headphones is a little longer than it needs to be
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the NAD C 399, the C 379 has more modest amplification modules and less power
- Compared to the NAD C 3050, the reviewer did not hear any meaningful differences in terms of performance and finds the choice comes down to aesthetics and features
Takeaway: The NAD C 379 is a great value for an integrated amplifier with good sound quality, plenty of connectivity, and an upgradeable design. It's a solid option for those seeking a versatile and future-proof amplifier.
All
C 379
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Continuous output power into 8 ohms: 80W (ref. 20 Hz-20 kHz at rated THD, both channels driven)
- THD (20 Hz – 20 kHz): <0.03% (250 mW to 120 W, 8 ohms and 4 ohms)
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >85 dB (A-weighted, 500 mV input, ref. 1 W out in 8 ohms)
- Damping factor: >300 (ref. 8 ohms, 20Hz to 6.5kHz)
- Frequency response: >±0.3 dB (20 Hz – 20 kHz)
- Channel separation: >75dB (1 kHz) >70dB (10 kHz)
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 435 x 100 x 410mm (17 1/4 x 4 x 16 3/16 inches)
- Net Weight: 9.04 kg
- Shipping weight: 10.88 kg
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
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.
Our take on the brand
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Used
NAD
What if you spend more?
Like every NAD product, legendary high performance is at the heart of this 16 channel/8 zone amplifier. Promising reliability, stability and a variety of installer-friendly features, the CI16-60 is a versatile and economical smart distribution amplifier with Audiophile Performance for high performance audio. NAD CI amplifiers will redefine the way you view distributed audio systems.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Enough power to drive almost any quality custom speaker with 60 watts per channel at 8 ohms into all 16 channels
- Each pair of channels is bridgeable to a potent 140W for applications or speakers that demand more power
- Stable and efficient power with low distortion and noise comes from the use of Hypex UcD Class D amplifier modules
- IP-controlled with a web-based user interface for configuration, calibration, and troubleshooting
- Robust block connectors can accept up to 10 gauge cable
Product Considerations
- The virtual dials in the parametric equalizer could be more responsive and easier to manipulate
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the AudioControl Rialto 400 amp, the NAD delivers a truthful and involving performance
Takeaway: The CI 16-60 DSP is a clever amplifier that balances price, performance, and features, making it a great choice for both installers and listeners. It delivers superior performance in various rooms with its robust design and smart features
Video review
Our take on the brand
Tomorrow's Hi-Fi, Today
With Evo 150, we've brought your audio past and present into the future. With outstanding Hypex NCore Class D amplification and our class-leading StreamMagic streaming platform on board, all you need to do is add speakers to enjoy superb high-resolution audio quality from one elegant, discreet box.
And thanks to its suite of digital and analogue inputs, as well as its high-quality digital-to-analogue converter, Evo can be the heart of your hi-fi system for years to come.
Evo 150
Easy to Set Up, Easy to Upgrade
It couldn't be simpler. Connect Evo 150 to the mains and to your speakers. Open StreamMagic, connect to the network, then fire up your favourite music streaming service. Pick a tune, press play and adjust the volume to suit. When you're ready, you can dig deeper to set Evo 150 up just how you want it, adding functionality as you go.
Evo 150 playing through the StreamMagic App
StreamMagic App
Our StreamMagic app offers full control of Evo, plus access to the world's most popular and high-resolution music streaming services. It's clear, logical and stable – so Evo will do precisely what you want. Alternatively, you may prefer to use the app of your favourite streaming service. Evo's ready for you to listen whichever way you choose.
Model watches TV with Evo in view
Connectivity to Suit Your Needs
Thanks to its suite of digital and analogue inputs, including a built-in phono stage, Evo can be the heart of your system – add a turntable, say, or EVO CD. Video sources can play too, just connect your TV's HDMI output to Evo's ARC input. No matter where your music comes from, Evo 150's ready for it.
Model listens to Evo via headphones
Bluetooth Convenience. Hi-Res Sound Quality
Often nothing's more convenient than streaming via Bluetooth. Evo takes it to the max with aptX HD Bluetooth, which features wireless, high-definition music streaming from compatible devices – including our Alva turntables. And because Evo also transmits with Bluetooth aptx HD, it's perfect for private listening on compatible Hi-Res wireless headphones.
Evo in a lifestyle setting with a turntable and books
Made By Music
Evo 150 uses the best audio components, such as the ESS SABRE ES9018k2m Reference DAC. And then we bring every one of our 55+ years of audio know-how to bear. The result is a performance that celebrates the talent of musicians and producers – one that retains the original raw emotive power and detail.
Model turns the volume knob on Evo
Complete Control
Evo is intuitive and straightforward to operate, no matter if you're using its supplied remote control, our simple yet thorough StreamMagic app, or its physical controls – including the large dual-concentric dial on the unit's fascia.
Evo on a shelf in a lifestyle setting
Neat and Easy Placement
At 317mm wide, roughly the size of a vinyl album sleeve, Evo will sit neatly where you need it to. But thanks to its award-winning deisgn and all-around good looks, it really deserves to be centre stage.
Model adds a vinyl record to Alva
Great for Record Lovers
If you want to connect a turntable, Evo 150's built-in phono stage makes it perfect for decks with with moving magnet cartridges, but no integral pre-amp. That's on top of Bluetooth compatibility with our own Alva turntables.
Evo CD
A New Life for CD
Available separately, Evo CD is the compact disc transport developed to exclusively partner Evo all-in-one players. It shares the same eye-catching design, is crafted from the same premium materials and is engineered to the same exacting standards. Evo CD extracts every piece of musical detail from your discs, then passes it seamlessly to Evo. Your CD collection is now set to join the hi-fi evolution.
Detail shot
Designed to Thrill, Built to Last
Evo's confident sound, timeless looks and premium materials mean that you've found your new long-term musical partner – bringing pleasure to both your ears and eyes for many years to come.
Product Strengths
- Packs many features into a small frame, offering an 'all-in-one' solution by integrating streaming, DAC, preamp, and amplification
- The sound quality is clear, detailed, smooth, refined, articulate, and neutral, with good soundstage and imaging
- Offers a wide array of input options (analog and digital) and streaming service compatibility, making it versatile
- Its Class D amplification (Hypex NCore) is powerful (150Wpc) and efficient, running cool compared to traditional amps
- The industrial design and aesthetics are highlighted positively, with its sleek look, swappable side panels, and user-friendly interface, enhancing its lifestyle appeal
Product Considerations
- The headphone preamp may not satisfy serious headphone enthusiasts without a dedicated amp
- There is a noted lack of bass management
- The StreamMagic app lags behind the likes of Bluesound and Yamaha MusicCast in terms of its interface
- Some reviewers found a slight softening of the bottom end
- One review notes some power supply noise in bench tests, but at inaudible levels
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Offers wider soundstage, depth, and polish than the Naim Uniti Atom, but the Naim Uniti Atom has a greater sense of musicality and tighter rhythmic fabric
Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Evo 150 is a versatile and attractive all-in-one system with excellent sound quality and a comprehensive feature set, making it a great choice for those seeking a simple yet high-performing audio solution. It provides a streamlined experience without sacrificing sound fidelity.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Offers a comprehensive and flexible specification, functioning as a headphone amplifier and streaming preamp
- Produces superb sound quality, described as clear, pure, detailed, dynamic, and musical, without being overly analytical, regardless of genre or recording quality
- Features a well-made, elegant, and attractive design with a beautiful screen for album art and a satisfying volume control
- Supports a comprehensive range of streaming services and digital formats including AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Bluetooth, UPnP, and Internet Radio, and is Roon Ready
- Intuitive and stable app, especially for those who know what they want to listen to
Product Considerations
- The price is high relative to other headphone amplifiers/DACs on the market
- The front display is not a touchscreen
- Some might prefer a more analytical sound presentation
- The HDMI ARC connection is absent
- The Naim app lacks polish compared to dedicated music apps
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and NAD M10—the Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is specifically focused on headphone use
- As a headphone amp, it is every bit as good as the Chord Hugo TT2
- Naim puts less of itself into the performance as opposed to McIntosh MHA200
Takeaway: The Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is a great self-contained system for headphone listening, with an easy-to-use interface and a beautiful design. It is a quality product that can be a centerpiece for your home audio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
As ever, the 9000A is the centre of the audiolab focus in being the beating heart of any high-performance audio system. It’s more powerful, capable and feature-packed than any of the preceding models – the most advanced audiolab integrated amplifier yet. Versatility is key to audiolab’s integrated amplifier appeal, and the 9000A offers to cater for audiophiles of all creeds. Loaded with digital and analogue source connection, wireless connectivity for portable devices, an all-new phono stage to cater for vinyl playback and the usual, class-leading amplification for loudspeakers and headphones.
Product Strengths
- Sonic clarity, detail resolution, and control
- Sturdy build and fine finish with solid casework and nicely damped
- Flexible product offering integrated, pre-amp, or pre-power combo options
- Balanced nature means that no particular genre of music is favored above any other
- Impressively equipped with a wide range of inputs including RCA, XLR, Coax, Optical, USB B, and Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD and LDAC
Product Considerations
- Dynamic contrasts could be stronger
- Rhythmic drive could be stronger
- Phono stage a little flat-footed
- The display graphics on the screen can be on the small side to read from across a room
- Treble could be more exciting and dynamic
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Audiolab 6000A: Offers better instrumental separation, clarity of guitar strings, and a fuller bass response
- Vs Naim Nait XS3 or Rega Elicit Mk5: Delivers less entertainment and rhythmic drive
Takeaway: The Audiolab 9000A is a capable and flexible amplifier offering sonic clarity and a range of features to slot easily into most systems. It charms and delights, never forcing music onto your ears but always upgrading the sound for great speaker performance.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
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
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Retro design takes cues from the NAD 3030
- Modern features include HDMI eARC, digital inputs, phono input, and Bluetooth
- Can be expanded with an optional module to add BluOS streaming and Dirac room correction
- The BluOS app is easy to use and gives access to many streaming services
Product Considerations
- The 'wood' finish is often a vinyl wrap instead of real wood
- Limited analog line ins compared to older amplifiers
- The infinite volume rotary makes it difficult to set precise listening levels
- Dirac Live room correction is limited to 500Hz without purchasing the full version
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Technics SU-GX70: The Technics is more expensive, has a modern look, and a solid DAC, but has less power and no built-in streamer
- Vs NAD C700: The C700 has BluOS built-in, but less power and no room correction
Takeaway: The NAD C3050 is a great-sounding amplifier with a vintage look that's packed with modern features like streaming and room correction. For those seeking an amplifier that combines excellent sound quality with retro aesthetics and contemporary technology, it is a worthwhile option.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Features NAD's HYPEX N-Core amplifier, previously only available on the Master Series, offering high performance
- Nice and clean sound with good detail
- Bass has extra extension and a snappy feel
- MDC2 architecture allows for upgrades, making the unit future-proof
- Handles a wide variety of music well, and can power inefficient speakers
Product Considerations
- Class D amplifiers, such as the C 399, can go quickly from no clipping to straight clipping when clipping, so it's important to watch out for that to avoid damaging equipment
- Lacks a USB DAC input
- The HDMI eARC port can be erratic and may require rebooting the unit
- The chassis has a modestly built aesthetic, and the front-panel display is small
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The C399 essentially combines the C658 and the C298 into a single chassis
- The C399 has more depth in the bass and more power than the NAD C368
- The C399 can deliver more power for less money, in a more traditional looking chassis, while the NAD M10v2 has superior styling and build
- The C399 provides better bluetooth conectivity and is superior with the MDC2 BluOS-D, while the Parasound Hint 6 has a leg up on the NAD for analog audiophiles
Takeaway: The NAD C 399 is a value driven amplifier that can power difficult speakers and offers a clean sound that handles everything well. It gives a lot of tech for the money, especially with the MDC cards.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The NAD M10 V2 is a versatile 'all-in-one' device combining a streamer, DAC, and amplifier into a compact unit
- Excellent sound quality–described as clean, clear, detailed, dynamic, and balanced
- BluOS app is easy to use and has a wide range of streaming service support
- The seven-inch color LCD touchscreen is visually appealing and functional
- Dirac Live room correction improves soundstage, clarity, and bass response by smoothing frequency response and correcting impulse
- It lacks center channel support when using the HDMI input for home theater
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers found the initial Dirac setup a bit cumbersome
- The binding posts are reported as inconvenient when using spades
- The bass lower octave is a little bit lacking compared to dedicated units
- The touchscreen is prone to fingerprints
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Cambridge Audio EVO 150, both have similar setup, M10 V2 provides Dirac room correction
- Vs Arcam SA-30, M10 V2 offers better design, a nicer screen, and Dirac Live is more user friendly in Lyngdorf
- Vs NAD C700, the M10 V2 features higher-end amplification, a better finish, and Dirac Live
Takeaway: The NAD M10 V2 is a compact, feature-rich streaming amplifier that sounds great and looks good. It simplifies your setup and offers a modern listening experience with its versatile features.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- A robust 130W per channel into both 8 and 4 ohms is delivered, surging to 350W during dynamic peaks
- Features an ESS Sabre 9028 DAC, providing pristine signal conversion
- Offers a wide range of inputs, including HDMI eARC, ultra-low-noise MM phono stage, and two-way Qualcomm aptX HD Bluetooth
- Sound quality is clear, smooth, and effortless, with a low noise floor and even balance across the frequency range
- It is versatile and easy to use, handling a wide variety of digital and analog inputs
Product Considerations
- The Bluesound module with Dirac Live room correction is sold separately
- To get the most out of it, pairing with high-quality analog or high-res digital source material is needed
- May be more amplifier than needed for smaller rooms or less demanding speakers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The C 389 offers much of the performance of the C 399 for less money, mainly differing in the output stage
- The C389 is an alternative for customers eyeing the M10 but seeking better value if they can forego the smaller size and touchscreen
- The C389 is aimed at audiophiles valuing performance over the C700's simplicity, size, and style
Takeaway: The NAD C 389 is a versatile and powerful integrated amplifier delivering high-quality sound with a range of connectivity options. It is a great choice for audiophiles seeking excellent performance and future-proof upgradability.
Video review
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