NAD C389

Hybrid-Digital DAC Amplifier
The NAD C 389 HybridDigital DAC amplifier could be the cornerstone of a high-performance audio system, both now and for decades to come. Utilizing NAD’s proven HybridDigital UcD amplifier design and the same ESS Sabre DAC used in the acclaimed NAD M33 BluOS streaming amplifier, the C 389 will deliver exciting dynamics and exquisite detail from all sources.
With its comprehensive suite of digital and analog inputs, including an ultra-low noise phono stage and an HDMI eARC interface, the C 389 can accommodate all your source components. Additionally, it incorporates the latest generation of NAD’s Modular Designs Construction (MDC) technology, which allows for easy expansion with exciting features such as high-resolution BluOS music streaming and Dirac Live room correction.

Power and Performance
For over 50 years, the NAD brand has been synonymous with performance and value, and the C 389 Hybrid DAC amplifier continues this tradition. Its output stage is based on a customized version of NAD's efficient HybridDigital UcD design, with multiple UcD amplification modules in a balanced bridge configuration and an innovative switch-mode power supply that provides ample current reserves on demand. The C 389 delivers an incredible continuous power output of 130 W per channel, with distortion and noise practically immeasurable across the entire audio bandwidth, and up to 350 W per channel of instantaneous power, allowing for effortless reproduction of musical transients.

The digital section features the same ESS Sabre 32-bit/384kHz DAC chip used in NAD’s award-winning Masters M33 amplifier. Renowned for its exceptionally wide dynamic range, ultra-low noise and distortion, and near-zero clock jitter levels, the ESS Sabre 9028 DAC allows the C 389 to provide stunning clarity and an almost holographic image across all sources.

Future-Proof Friend
In 2006, NAD introduced Modular Design Construction (MDC) technology, which allows users to add new features by inserting an expansion module into an MDC-capable component. In 2021, NAD introduced MDC2, a next-generation future-proof platform that enables bidirectional communication between the expansion module and the host component.

The C 389 is equipped with two MDC2 expansion slots, allowing you to keep up with new A/V technology developments. The first MDC2 module from NAD is the MDC2 BluOS-D, offering high-resolution multi-room BluOS streaming and Dirac Live room correction.

The MDC2 BluOS-D connects to your home network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Using the BluOS Controller app on a smart device or computer, you can stream music from your favorite services and personal music library through the C 389. BluOS integrates support for over 20 services, including some offering lossless and high-resolution audio, such as Amazon Music HD, Deezer, Idagio, Qobuz, and Tidal. Like all BluOS-enabled components, the MDC2 BluOS-D features MQA decoding and rendering for high-resolution streaming from Tidal. It also supports Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. With the installation of the MDC2 BluOS-D, the C 389 becomes part of a complete home music system with up to 64 zones.

Addressing common acoustic issues, such as standing waves and room reflections, Dirac Live room correction transforms the listening experience. Connect the included microphone to the MDC BluOS-D USB port, then run the free Dirac Live app on a smart device or computer. Dirac Live plays test tones through the speakers, analyzes the results, and transfers the compensation filters to the MDC BluOS-D. You will enjoy deeper and more structured bass, a more precise image, enhanced midrange clarity, and more accurate tonal balance. Thanks to the two-way architecture of the MDC2, the MDC2 BluOS-D provides these benefits to all sources connected to the C 389.

Everything is Connected
The C 389 can accommodate all your analog and digital sources. Connectivity options include two optical digital inputs, two coaxial digital inputs, and two sets of analog RCA line-level inputs. The analog inputs are equipped with ultra-low-noise buffer amplifiers for enhanced sound purity.

For vinyl lovers, the C 389 features a precise MM phono section with accurate RIAA equalization, high overload margins, and extremely low noise. The phono section includes an innovative circuit that suppresses the infrasonic noise typically present during vinyl playback, without affecting bass performance.
For movies and TV, the C 389 has an HDMI eARC input, allowing you to output TV audio through high-fidelity speakers while controlling the volume with your TV remote. The dual subwoofer outputs enable the C 389 to serve as the hub of a 2.1 or 2.2-channel system for both music and movies. With the MDC2 BluOS-D installed, you can set the crossover frequency using the BluOS app, ensuring perfect integration between the subwoofers and main speakers.
For private listening, the C 389 features a dedicated headphone amplifier with low output impedance and extremely high output voltage capability, making it suitable even for the most demanding studio headphones. The C 389 also includes bidirectional Bluetooth wireless, with support for Qualcomm’s aptX-HD codec, for 24-bit streaming from smartphones or tablets and wireless playback through Bluetooth headphones and speakers.

Truly Timeless
Based on five decades of amplifier design innovation, the NAD C 389 HybridDigital DAC amplifier delivers audiophile-grade performance, flexible connectivity, top-tier upgradability, and long-term value. With precise volume control, ultra-low-noise circuitry, and cutting-edge amplifier design, the C 389 provides wonderfully refined sound at realistic listening levels through virtually any speaker. Thanks to NAD’s next-generation MDC2 technology, you can upgrade your C 389 with exciting features like multi-room music streaming and automatic room correction. With the HybridDigital DAC Amplifier C 389, the NAD legend continues.

Technical specifications:

• Frequency Response: 20-20k Hz ±0.3 dB
• THD: <0.002%
• Signal-to-noise ratio: >106 dB
• Channel Separation: >100 dB (1kHz), >90 dB (10kHz)
• Input Sensitivity: pre 65 mV
• Damping Factor: >150
• Nominal Power: 2x130 watts @8 ohm
• Dynamic Power IHF: 2x210 watts @8 ohm, 2x300 watts @4 ohm, 2x350 watts @2 ohm
• Peak Current: >26A
• Output Stage: HybridDigital UcD
• Inputs: 1x phono MM, 2x analog RCA, 2x digital coax, 2x digital optical, HDMI eARC, RS-232, Trigger, IR, Bluetooth
• Outputs: pre, 2x subwoofer, headphone, IR, Trigger, Bluetooth
• Supported Formats: MQA, DSD, FLAC, WAV, AIFF, MP3, AAC, WMA, OGG, WMA-L, ALAC, OPUS
• Native Sampling Rates: up to 24bit/192kHz
• Bit Depth: 16-24
• Supported Operating Systems: Microsoft Windows XP, 2000, Vista, 7, 8 up to current, Mac OS X
• Bluetooth Quality: aptX HD
• Bluetooth Connection: two-way
• MDC Slots: 2x
• Dimensions: 435x100x390 mm
• Weight: 11 kg