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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
 
While my 326 has been flawless, I was advised to get a Caig deoxit product for the volume pot.  Apparently it is actually plastic conductive based on this budget model.  Anyway, if any of you are comfortable taking the hood off once in a while(after warranty expired) to do preventative maintenance, get a can of Caig Deoxit Faderlube.  Spray some short soft bursts into the holes of the pot and turn the volume up and down repeatedly.

If you are not familiar with doing this, look it up on youtube to get an idea.  Not for everyone, but it may save yourself some issues.
213runnin OP
914 posts
 
So last weekend I thought I'd experiment with the C326 and some really nice small Tannoys.  I installed Audioquest Type 4 speaker cables, and Morrow MA3 interconnects to a decent older Pioneer spinner.  I already had the Audioquest jumpers installed between Pre out and amp in jacks on the back.

I listened to various jazz, and well recorded music, and I can tell you that the C326 really responds well to good cables!.  In comparison to the old IC's and lamp cord speaker cable, the imaging became 3D with greater detail.  Really enjoyable.
mesch
3,529 posts
 
I am also using the AQ type 4 speaker cables with mine. Also AQ 0.5m Diamondback interconnects in place of jumpers. Soundstage and imaging as well as detail is improved.  


stevecham
3,340 posts
 
With regard to the soft clip setting, I’ve now had a C326BEE in system for about a week and I think I prefer the soft clip setting on, even at low volumes. My ears tell me it sounds a bit more three dimensional and tube bloomy. Bass does not suffer but seems to have more of that three dimensionality too. On the scope I saw a demo of what the soft clip setting does at near clip volume settings it seems to broaden the top of the wave form, perhaps accounting for the apparent warmth. In any case I love the tonal flexibility with these amps. My only wish would be for the tone controls be centered at about 60 or 70 Hz and the treble at 12 kHz, in other words, push them below and above the usual 100 Hz and 10 kHz points.
213runnin OP
914 posts
 
Interesting.  After reading this I played with the soft clip setting, but could detect no difference so far.  It may also have something to do with speaker load I suppose.

I'll give it another shot today as I'm curious to see if I can get that extra depth of stage that you're talking about.  
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