NAD C338 Integrated Amp

Description

The NAD C 338 represents an important step in the evolution of the company’s classic integrated-amplifier formula. Introduced in 2017, it takes the compact, straightforward NAD concept and adds an unusually comprehensive collection of modern digital and streaming features. At its heart is a 50-watt-per-channel HybridDigital Class D amplifier, but the C 338 is much more than a conventional integrated amp. It incorporates a 24-bit/192kHz DAC, Wi-Fi, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth, an MM phono stage, headphone amplifier, and a subwoofer output.

The amplifier section is rated at 50 watts per channel into both 8 and 4 ohms, while NAD specifies considerably greater dynamic power—90 watts into 8 ohms, 150 watts into 4 ohms, and 200 watts into 2 ohms. That combination gives the relatively small C 338 considerably more headroom than its continuous rating might suggest. AVForums noted that NAD’s amplifier design historically tended to produce performance beyond what the published power figure might imply.

Connectivity is arguably the C 338’s defining feature. There are two optical and two coaxial digital inputs, along with analog line inputs and a moving-magnet phono input. Wi-Fi streaming provides Chromecast and Spotify Connect, while Bluetooth offers an easy alternative for phones and tablets. The DAC supports digital signals up to 24-bit/192kHz. There is also a dedicated headphone amplifier and a mono subwoofer output, making the C 338 capable of serving as the centerpiece of a compact two-channel system without requiring a separate DAC or streamer.

Its slim chassis is another departure from traditional NAD amplifiers. Measuring roughly 17¼ inches wide but only 2¾ inches high, the C 338 can fit easily into furniture or a modern entertainment system. SoundStage! was struck by its unusually low-profile construction, describing the amplifier as less than half the height of many conventional integrated amplifiers while still having a reassuringly dense chassis.

Reviews generally found the C 338 smooth, balanced, and versatile, although opinions differed regarding ultimate sound quality. Hi-Fi News praised its combination of traditional audiophile qualities and modern functionality, with reviewer Cliff Joseph concluding that it “successfully punches above its weight” with precise, well-balanced sound and extensive digital connectivity. Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity similarly concluded that “there is nearly nothing the C 338 cannot do,” while praising its natural reproduction and dynamics.

What Hi-Fi? was more critical, praising the extensive feature set and smooth, easy-listening balance while finding the presentation short of class-leading in detail, dynamics, and rhythmic expression. That divergence makes the C 338 particularly interesting today: its appeal lies not simply in audiophile performance, but in the sheer amount of functionality packed into a compact, efficient amplifier.

Review Quotes

• Hi-Fi News: “successfully punches above its weight” with precise, well-balanced sound.
• Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity: “there is nearly nothing the C 338 cannot do.”
• What Hi-Fi?: Praised its “smooth, easy listening balance,” while criticizing its limitations in detail and dynamic expression.
• AVForums: Highlighted the flexibility of Chromecast, saying it made many competing amplifiers feel “extremely old by comparison.”

Product Specifications

• Type: 2-channel integrated amplifier with DAC and network streaming
• Amplification: NAD HybridDigital/Class D
• Continuous Power: 50W x 2 into 8 or 4 ohms
• Dynamic Power: 90W/150W/200W into 8/4/2 ohms
• DAC: 24-bit/192kHz
• Digital Inputs: 2 optical, 2 coaxial
• Analog Inputs: Stereo RCA plus MM phono
• Streaming: Wi-Fi, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect
• Bluetooth: Integrated Bluetooth with aptX
• Frequency Response: ±0.3dB, 20Hz–20kHz
• THD: <0.005% at 2V output
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >106dB, IHF A-weighted
• Headphone Output: Dedicated headphone amplifier
• Subwoofer Output: Yes
• Remote Control: Included; NAD remote app supported
• Dimensions: Approximately 17¼”W x 2¾”H x 11⅞”D
• Weight: Approximately 10.1 lb
• Finish: Black