These two NAD amps are quite different. The D3020 is a class D amp and includes a DAC. The C316BEE is class A/B and is a line level integrated only (no DAC) however has more analog inputs. Choice would depend on ones needs. Several reviews are available for these, study them.
NAD C 316BEE vs. NAD D 3020
So, as of now I'm running my new DALI Zensor 1's through a Jolida FX-10. I was going to order a SS amp to compare the sound with the FX-10. I decided I want to try a NAD to compare. Any thoughts on the C 316 BEE vs the D 3020? I plan on ordering one of these to compare against the FX-10.
Thanks in advance.
Thanks in advance.
6 responses Add your response
The sound of Class D amps are not everyone's cup of tea. Certainly not mine. I had a C316BEE in a secondary system once and it did a great job driving a pair 6 ohm, 86db speakers. Very musical and punches way above its weight. Lots of line level inputs too. I am sure it would do a fine job with your Zensors. And besides, even if the D3020 wasn't Class D, I personally couldn't deal with the D3020's looks. |
check out this. I've heard a few samples from a friends shop who caries them and they are surprisingly well build and sound wonderful for the money. http://www.miesaudio.com/products/mies-i100-integrated-amplifier better looking then any NAD and sound actually really good. |
I would caution against the NAD. It is a good sounding and punchy unit, but the quality of the pre-amp section is questionable... on mine, the volume control crackled after just a few weeks, one rca input priduced distortion after a year, and now the entire source selector is shorted so it is unusable after 5 years. I also purchased a Marantz pm8004 at a low street price six years ago, and it's been running 24/7 since then it is like new. I also have a 21 years old Yamaha integrated, and it is also working like new. The yam retailed for the price of the nad; the Marantz was twice the price of the nad, and both units are 3x the weigh of the nad. Quality of the nad components are obviously not even conparable. I would look into either Marantz or the new Yamaha line if I were you. |