MAGAZINE
The NAD C399 is euqipped with both analog and digital inputs as well as the HybridDigitalTM nCore power amplifiers used in the Masters series. According to NAD, these achieve a continuous output power of 2 x 180 watts and impulse power peaks of up to 400 watts into 4 ohms. The 32 bit / 384 kHz ESS Sabre 9028 DAC also comes from the Masters range of amplifiers – such as the M10 (reviewed by us here) or the M33 (reviewed by us here).
For the first time, the C399 also features the latest generation of NAD's Modular Design Construction (MDC) technology – now called MDC2. Two slots on the rear of the amp allow for equipping it with optional modules, such as the MDC2 BluOS-D, also new. This adds high-resolution BluOSTM multi-room music streaming, Dirac Live® room correction, and the ability to integrate the amplifier into smarthome systems to the C399.
The new integrated amp offers two optical and two coaxial digital inputs, as well as an HDMI eARC connection for attaching it to a TV. On the analog side, two RCA high level inputs and a phono stage for MM cartridges are available.
In addition to outputs for two pairs of speakers, the C 399 has a preamp output and two subwoofer outputs, as well as a headphone output powered by a separate headphone amplifier, which is also said to be able to drive high-impedance studio monitor headphones. Finally, the new amplifier also features bi-directional Bluetooth in aptXTM HD.
In Germany, both the NAD C 399 amplifier and the MDC2 BluOS-D module are expected to be available from authorized retailers starting in December at prices of around €2000 and €600, respectively.
