John
New from NAD: the C 389 Hybrid Digital DAC amplifier that builds a DAC circuit around the same ESS Sabre DAC chip found in NAD’s Masters series amplifiers, which in turn feeds multiple UcD amplifier modules – configured in balanced bridged mode – for 130wpc into 8 and 4 Ohms.
The new integrated’s back panel accommodates two sets of loudspeakers, up to two subwoofers and an HDMI eARC socket for TV hook-ups. The DAC is also accessible via coaxial and TOSLINK sockets (which each show up twice). On the analogue front, we get an MM phono input for turntables and two line-level inputs for, say, an external DAC, CD player or network streamer.
The simple twist comes in the form of two MDC2 expansion slots that can expand the C 389’s functionality. The first MDC2 plug-in board to ship will be a BluOS module that adds Roon Readiness, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Apple AirPlay 2 as well as Amazon Music, Deezer and Qobuz via the BluOS app.
The NAD C 389 will begin shipping this summer for US$1499 /€1499 / £1299.
Further information: NAD
