NAD C298 Power Amp

Description

The NAD C 298 is a high-performance stereo power amplifier that combines substantial output, extremely low distortion, and modern Class D efficiency in a relatively compact chassis. Introduced as part of NAD’s Classic Series, the C 298 was among the company’s first amplifiers to use Purifi’s advanced Eigentakt™ amplification technology. The result is an amplifier designed to deliver high levels of transparency and control while remaining cool-running and relatively energy efficient. NAD rates it at 185 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 340 watts per channel into 4 ohms, while a bridge mode allows a pair of C 298s to operate as 620-watt monoblocks.

The Purifi Eigentakt circuit is the C 298’s defining feature. Eigentakt was developed around an extremely linear switching-amplifier architecture intended to reduce the distortion and noise traditionally associated with Class D designs. NAD specifies less than 0.005% THD from 1 watt through rated power, while its published analog specifications list less than 0.0005% THD at 2 volts output. Signal-to-noise ratio exceeds 120dB at rated output, and damping factor is greater than 800.

Independent laboratory testing has been particularly impressive. Hi-Fi News measured continuous output substantially above NAD’s published ratings—235 watts into 8 ohms and 475 watts into 4 ohms—and found dynamic capability of 265 watts, 526 watts, and 750 watts into 8, 4, and 2 ohms respectively. The publication also measured an exceptionally low output impedance, helping the amplifier maintain a consistent frequency response with demanding speaker loads.

Listening reviews have emphasized the C 298’s combination of power, precision, and spaciousness. The Absolute Sound described it as an amplifier that “a lot of audiophiles would want,” highlighting its unusually convincing imaging and depth. The reviewer particularly praised the fine-grained placement of performers and the ability to separate instruments within complex recordings.

Hi-Fi News similarly praised the amplifier’s “speed and detail,” describing its presentation as clean, powerful, and direct. The review noted that the C 298 could make both small and large loudspeakers respond with considerable energy, while still retaining a spacious and unmuddied soundstage.

System flexibility is another strength. The C 298 provides both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA inputs, variable input-level adjustment, a line-level output for daisy-chaining amplifiers, 12-volt trigger connections, and automatic signal-sensing turn-on. These features make it equally suitable for a traditional stereo system, a preamp/DAC-driven setup, or a more elaborate installation.

Visually understated, the C 298 places the emphasis firmly on engineering rather than elaborate cosmetics. Its 17-inch-wide chassis and 24.7-pound weight make it considerably easier to accommodate than many high-power Class AB amplifiers. For listeners seeking substantial power, very low measured distortion, excellent speaker control, and the sonic transparency associated with Purifi Eigentakt technology, the NAD C 298 represents a particularly sophisticated implementation of modern Class D amplification.

Review Quotes

• The Absolute Sound: “The amplifier a lot of audiophiles would want.”
• Hi-Fi News: Praised its combination of “speed and detail” and described its presentation as clean and powerful.
• SoundStage! Hi-Fi: Found its reproduction “thoroughly relaxed,” with extensive fine detail and impressive control.

Product Specifications

• Type: Stereo Class D power amplifier
• Amplification: Purifi Eigentakt™
• Power output: 185W × 2 into 8 ohms
• Power output: 340W × 2 into 4 ohms
• Bridged output: 620W into 8 ohms
• Dynamic power: 260W/8Ω, 490W/4Ω, 570W/2Ω
• Inputs: RCA single-ended and XLR balanced
• Input impedance: 56kΩ + 280pF
• THD: <0.005%, 1W–185W into 8/4Ω
• Signal-to-noise ratio: >120dB at rated output
• Damping factor: >800
• Frequency response: ±0.2dB, 20Hz–20kHz; –3dB at 60kHz
• Channel separation: >100dB at 1kHz
• Peak output current: >25A
• Connections: RCA line output, speaker binding posts, 12V trigger input/output
• Standby consumption: <0.5W
• Dimensions: 17⅛”W × 4¾”H × 15⅜”D
• Weight: 24.7 lbs.
• Finish: Matte black