NAD C268 Power Amp

Description

The NAD C 268 is a compact, highly versatile stereo power amplifier that combines NAD’s long-standing emphasis on high-value amplification with modern Class D technology. Introduced in 2017 as part of NAD’s Classic Series, the C 268 was designed not simply as a conventional stereo power amp, but as a flexible building block for a variety of systems. It can be used with a separate preamplifier, as part of a bi-amped system, as a slave amplifier, or—most significantly—bridged into a 300-watt monoblock. NAD originally positioned it at a remarkably accessible $799 U.S. MSRP.

At the heart of the C 268 is NAD’s HybridDigital UcD amplifier technology, based on a customized version of the Hypex UcD output stage. It delivers a rated 80 watts per channel into both 8- and 4-ohm loads, with both channels driven across the full 20Hz–20kHz bandwidth. More revealing of its reserves are the dynamic-power figures: 120 watts into 8 ohms, 200 watts into 4 ohms, and 250 watts into 2 ohms. NAD also specifies more than 20 amps of peak output current, giving the amplifier substantial short-term current capability for demanding musical passages.

The C 268’s versatility extends to its connectivity. Both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs are provided, making it suitable for everything from conventional home-audio systems to higher-end preamplifiers and studio-oriented installations. A variable input-level control allows gain matching and is particularly useful for bi-amping. There is also an RCA line output for daisy-chaining another amplifier or feeding an additional system component.

Perhaps its most attractive feature is the bridge mode. A switch on the rear panel converts the C 268 from a stereo amplifier into a mono amplifier rated at 300 watts into 8 ohms. Two C 268s can therefore become a pair of powerful monoblocks, providing an upgrade path without replacing the original amplifiers. NAD specifically designed the C 268 to work with its C 368 integrated amplifier in this configuration.

The amplifier is also exceptionally quiet and efficient. NAD specifies a damping factor greater than 100, frequency response within ±0.3dB from 20Hz to 20kHz, and less than 0.03% THD from 250mW through its rated 80-watt output. The switch-mode power supply was engineered to provide substantial instantaneous current while avoiding the heat and bulk associated with conventional linear supplies. At just 16.1 pounds, the C 268 is considerably lighter than many traditional Class AB power amplifiers of comparable output.

Reviewers have generally emphasized its combination of power, neutrality, efficiency, and flexibility. The Audio Tailor described the C 268 as offering “clarity and precision” while highlighting its 300-watt bridged capability. NAD itself described the amplifier as delivering “massive power output with nearly unmeasurable distortion and noise in the audible range.” The C 268 ultimately succeeds because it does far more than its understated appearance suggests: it is a clean, efficient stereo amplifier today and can become the foundation of a much more powerful system tomorrow.

Review Quotes

• The Audio Tailor: praised its “clarity and precision” and substantial bridged output capability.
• NAD’s launch material described its design as delivering “massive power output” with extremely low distortion and noise.
• Audio Advisor characterizes the C 268 as “more adaptable than its price suggests,” particularly because of its stereo-to-mono upgrade path.

Product Specifications

• Type: Stereo power amplifier
• Amplification: NAD HybridDigital UcD / Class D
• Continuous Power: 80W x 2 into 8 ohms
• Continuous Power: 80W x 2 into 4 ohms
• Bridged Power: 300W x 1 into 8 ohms
• Dynamic Power: 120W/200W/250W into 8/4/2 ohms
• Bridged Dynamic Power: 500W into 8 ohms; 560W into 4 ohms
• Peak Output Current: >20A
• THD: <0.03%, 20Hz–20kHz
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >98dB, A-weighted
• Damping Factor: >100
• Frequency Response: ±0.3dB, 20Hz–20kHz
• Inputs: Balanced XLR and single-ended RCA
• Input Level: Variable/fixed gain modes
• Line Output: RCA, for daisy-chaining additional amplifiers
• Auto Turn-On: Selectable signal-sensing threshold
• 12V Trigger: Input and output
• Bridge Mode: Yes
• Standby Power: <0.5W
• Dimensions: 17⅛”W x 3 15/16″H x 15⅜”D
• Weight: 16.1 lbs.
• Finish: Black