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Current NAD integrated amps, what are your impressions?

I just picked up a C326BEE and wanted to hear if my results are common, or what the general consensus is for NAD. I did some searching on this forum, but there doesn’t seem to be a lot of love or threads directed at NAD.

I actually acquired a C372 about 3 years ago, but sold it within a year as it seemed pretty bland and laid back. I’ve heard that this vintage wasn’t as reliable and my remote control did die. When I shipped it to the buyer it showed up DOA in one channel! I helped him with the repairs but it left me with reservations regarding NAD. From what I can gather, the current models are much more reliable.

So Spearit sound is clearing out refurbished NAD components, and I couldn’t resist the price(no affiliation). Bottom line, the 326 sounds way better than I expected. I’d been using a Denon AVR3801 in 2 channel with a second system, and the imaging, clarity and punch is easily better with the 326. I’m driving Tannoy DC4 bookshelf speakers and what a soundstage!. Diana Krall tracks are recorded with the piano mic’d so the lower register starts in the left speaker and the highest notes in the right. I’d not heard that with the Denon, but the 326 sets it out so clearly.

So what has your experience been with NAD?
213runnin
213runnin OP
914 posts
 
I think I concur on the 326BEE and speaker loads because its max power consumption is under 2 amps.  It does just fine with the Tannoy or Paradigm bookshelf speakers, but has its limits with the 4 ohm Totems.  BTW, I replaced the stock preamp jumpers with the Audioquest ones.  I noticed a somewhat brighter, more open sound, making the Nad more neutral as opposed to warm sounding.  Definitely a nice addition.

I've been eyeing the C356BEE myself.  I don't really need it and would sell the 326 to upgrade, but the extra power and module port plus A/B speaker connections has me wondering.  One way to get an upgrade on the 356 would be a refurbished C375BEE at spearitsound.com for around 1100.  Not bad for 150 wpc.
mesch
3,524 posts
 
Opps, I wrote...probably not too difficult a load. Not! on not.

I am happy with the 326 for a second system. There are so many quality speakers, at the budget I would pair such an amp with, that will not challenge it power wise. 

I am currently using a 0.5m audioquest interconnect to replace jumpers.


robr45's avatar
robr45
319 posts
 
The c390dd is a super impressive. It is one of the best integrateds I have ever heard. 
catcher10's avatar
catcher10
77 posts
 
My C356BEE has powered very nicely, my Epos Epic 2 which are 90dB 4ohm speakers, superb sounding combo!! I now have Rega RX5 speakers and still the NAD does not falter. Nice big sound, clean and with tremendous low end....The C375BEE is interesting only for the 150wpc, the other options are not needed, but for a good price never know.

I also use the Audioquest preamp jumpers, the difference is noticeable for sure.....cheap upgrade.
ebm
9,311 posts
 
Good for cheap stuff.
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