NAD C368 Integrated Amp

Description

The NAD C 368 is a versatile integrated amplifier that brings NAD’s traditional emphasis on practical power and sound quality together with the connectivity expected from a modern digital-audio component. Introduced as part of NAD’s Classic Series, the C 368 combines an 80-watt-per-channel Class D amplifier, high-resolution DAC, moving-magnet phono stage, Bluetooth with aptX, headphone amplifier, and extensive analog and digital connectivity in a relatively compact chassis. Its Modular Design Construction (MDC) architecture also allows the amplifier to be expanded with optional modules, including BluOS network streaming and HDMI connectivity.

The amplifier section uses NAD’s HybridDigital architecture and is rated at 80 watts per channel into both 8- and 4-ohm loads. More importantly, the C 368 has substantial dynamic capability, with NAD specifying 120 watts into 8 ohms, 200 watts into 4 ohms and 250 watts into 2 ohms. A C 268 power amplifier can also be used with the C 368 in bridged operation, producing a 300-watt amplifier configuration according to NAD’s current specifications.

Digital sources are handled by an integrated high-resolution DAC supporting signals up to 24-bit/192kHz. Two optical and two coaxial digital inputs provide ample connectivity for CD transports, televisions, disc players and other digital sources. Traditional sources are accommodated through analog line inputs and a built-in MM phono stage, making the C 368 equally suitable for vinyl playback. A front-panel headphone amplifier and preamp/subwoofer outputs further extend its usefulness.

One of the C 368’s most distinctive features is its MDC expansion system. Optional modules can add capabilities that were uncommon in conventional integrated amplifiers when the C 368 was introduced. The BluOS module, for example, transforms the amplifier into a network-capable streaming component with access to high-resolution music services and multi-room playback. Other available options included HDMI switching and additional digital connectivity.

Listening tests have generally emphasized the C 368’s smoothness, refinement and ability to deliver substantial power from its relatively modest chassis. What Hi-Fi? described it as a “solid, articulate and well-equipped performer” and praised its “big, solid and refined sound,” along with its transparent and spacious presentation. The publication also noted its smooth, full-bodied character, while observing that its relaxed balance could sound somewhat restrained with especially energetic material.

AVForums similarly praised its “exceptionally smooth and refined sound” and described it as a “seriously clever modern amplifier,” particularly impressed by the combination of extensive functionality and polished amplification performance. The Absolute Sound highlighted NAD’s ability to provide considerable capability at a relatively accessible price, while noting the C 368’s substantial dynamic power reserves.

Ultimately, the C 368 is designed less as a minimalist traditional integrated amplifier and more as the control center of a modern two-channel system. Its combination of amplification, digital conversion, vinyl compatibility, Bluetooth, headphone output, expansion capability and preamp/subwoofer connections makes it unusually adaptable. The understated NAD styling and efficient Class D design complete a package aimed at listeners who want a single component capable of accommodating both conventional hi-fi sources and newer digital technologies.

Review Quotes

• What Hi-Fi?: “A solid, articulate and well-equipped performer” with a “big, solid and refined sound.”
• AVForums: Praised its “exceptionally smooth and refined sound” and called it a “seriously clever modern amplifier.”
• The Absolute Sound: Highlighted the C 368’s combination of extensive capability and NAD’s tradition of delivering strong performance at a relatively accessible price.
• HomeTheaterHifi.com: Described it as a versatile “one-box system” combining an integrated amplifier, preamplifier, DAC, headphone amplifier and Bluetooth playback/streaming capability.

Product Specifications

• Type: Stereo HybridDigital integrated amplifier / DAC
• Amplifier design: Class D HybridDigital
• Continuous power: 80W × 2 into 8 ohms; 80W × 2 into 4 ohms
• Dynamic power: 120W into 8 ohms; 200W into 4 ohms; 250W into 2 ohms
• Bridge mode: 300W into 8 ohms with compatible configuration
• Peak output current: >20A
• Damping factor: >300
• THD: <0.03%, 250mW–80W into 8/4 ohms
• Signal-to-noise ratio: >98dB, A-weighted
• DAC resolution: Up to 24-bit/192kHz
• Digital inputs: 2 coaxial, 2 optical
• Analog inputs: Line-level inputs plus MM phono
• Bluetooth: Bluetooth A2DP with aptX
• Headphone output: Dedicated headphone amplifier
• Outputs: Preamp/subwoofer output; Speaker A/B
• Expansion: Two MDC slots for optional modules
• Optional modules: BluOS network streaming, HDMI switching and additional digital connectivity
• Tone controls: Bass ±7dB; treble ±7dB; balance -10dB
• Frequency response: ±0.3dB, 20Hz–20kHz
• Channel separation: >75dB at 1kHz
• Standby consumption: 0.5W with specified standby configuration
• Dimensions: 17⅛”W × 3⅞”H × 15⅜”D
• Net weight: 17.2 lbs.
• Finish: Black