Potato score: 90.91

91%

NAD C 328 #1
NAD C 328 variant 1
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NAD C 328

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Built-in DAC
Phono Stage
Headphone Output
Remote Control
Auto Standby

NAD C 328 Hybrid Digital DAC Amplifier

For 45 years, NAD Electronics has introduced aspiring audiophiles to the vast world of hi-fi. From our flagship Masters Series, to our budget-friendly Classic Series, NAD has a component for everyone. Following in the footsteps of some of NAD’s greatest units, the NAD C 328 delivers the most fundamental of features, while firmly adhering to NAD’s unwavering commitment to exquisite sound. The C 328 can wirelessly connect to any smartphone, tablet, or Bluetooth®-enabled device within range, to give you a seamless listening experience. Featuring a MM phono input, the C 328 breathes new life into vinyl LPs, thanks in part to NAD’s innovative Hybrid Digital™ amp technology. The C 328 also features a headphone amplifier, letting you connect your favourite headphones and settle back into your own world of detailed sound. Although more modest in comparison to other Classic Series amplifiers, the C 328 will fit perfectly into your existing system and bring you the musical nirvana you’ve been searching for.


Getting the Basics Right

When it comes to Classic Series amplifiers, no feature is overlooked. Low noise circuits, precise volume control action, and accurate channel balance are all key characteristics of the C 328. With the added bonus of proper input and output impedance traits, plus high overload margins and stability with difficult speaker loads, the C 328 is the best choice for audiophiles who are just starting to build their dream systems. The C 328 also includes a MM phono stage with precisely correct RIAA equalization, high overload margins, extremely low noise, and an innovative circuit to suppress infrasonic noise that is present on all LPs—all without affecting bass response.


Versatility in Spades

The line inputs of the C 328 can accommodate all kinds of analogue source components. It offers ideal input impedance attributes with linear, ultra-low noise buffer amplifiers to prevent any sonic degradation caused by improper loading of the source device. The C 328 also features a separate headphone amplifier with low output impedance and very high output voltage capability, enough in fact to drive even high impedance studio monitor headphones. The low impedance line outputs can also connect to a subwoofer to further extend the versatility of the C 328.


Ready for Streaming

With support for Bluetooth, you can instantly connect and listen to the music service of your choice, or wirelessly stream music and playlists stored directly on your smartphone, tablet or computer. Plus, with its high performance digital circuitry, Bluetooth streaming has never sounded as good as it does with the C 328.


Sophisticated Power

Since moving away from old-fashioned linear power supplies and Class AB output stages, NAD has developed even better performing circuits based on switch mode power supplies and Class D output stages. Once thought to be inferior to traditional topologies, NAD’s advanced work in this area has led to some of the best performing amplifiers on the market today. These new designs are linear over a wide bandwidth and provide consistent performance into all speaker loads, delivering a dramatic advancement.


The power supply of the C 328 is able to provide over 100 watts of audio output when needed. The C 328 can operate with any AC mains voltage from 100V to 240V and provides pure DC power to all of its various stages. This extremely efficient supply also provides near perfect regulation of voltage across a wide range of conditions and provides a solid noise-free foundation for the amplifying stages.


The C 328 uses a customised version of the proven Hypex UcD output stage. This allows for massive power with nearly immeasurable distortion and noise in the audible range. Every detail of this design has been carefully crafted and perfectly executed to wring out the best performance possible. The perfect starter amp for audiophiles and music lovers alike, the C 328 will flawlessly deliver NAD’s signature flexibility and expansive power.


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Overall Score 91/100

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Deliciously Crispy

NAD C 328 — Compact hybrid DAC integrated amp

The NAD C 328 is a slim, hybrid-DAC integrated amplifier that delivers a neutral, highly detailed sound and surprisingly robust drive for its class. Reviewers such as Chris Eberle and Thom Moon praise its clean, quiet presentation, precise imaging and wide soundstage. Its Hybrid Digital power stage and 50W/ch rating translate to convincing dynamics and cool operation, while onboard features — a dual-differential DAC with 24/192 inputs, MM phono, Bluetooth, headphone out and subwoofer output — make it a flexible hub for two-channel and vinyl systems. The front-panel Bass EQ rescues small speakers, and the minimalist chassis fits tight racks. Ideal for listeners who want reference-minded sound, phono capability and generous connectivity without paying high-end prices, the C 328 is an excellent value pick.

HomeTheaterHifi

"It made my LFR1100s sing with or without the bass eq, which adds a nice depth, and it never lost control of the lower frequencies."

Pros

  • Neutral, ultra-clean and highly detailed presentation with very low noise floor.
  • Precise imaging and a wide, well-defined soundstage with strong channel separation.
  • Comprehensive feature set—24/192-capable DAC, MM phono input, Bluetooth, headphone and subwoofer outputs.
  • Surprising drive and dynamics for a 50W/ch amp; efficient design runs cool and can drive demanding speakers.

&

Cons

  • Included remote is basic and feels underbuilt compared with the amp’s refined performance.
  • Some listeners noted compression/distortion on loud Bluetooth/streamed passages vs. wired sources.
  • No USB input for native computer connectivity, which limits direct PC connections.
  • May sound slightly lean in bass with some speakers unless the Bass EQ is engaged.

Sound Quality

90/100

Dynamics

88/100

At 50 W/channel the unit exceeds expectations for its rated power; reviewers report the amp driving large towers and delivering a convincing sense of drive and punch. There were minor notes of compression/distortion on louder streamed passages, so dynamics are very good for the power class but not reference-level.

Soundstage Imaging

92/100

Both reviews praise imaging and separation — HomeTheaterHifi notes precise placement of instruments and audible stage cues, and SoundStage highlighted outstanding channel separation and wide, deep staging. The C 328 consistently delivers focused, well-defined imaging for its class.

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Build Quality

88/100

Reviewers describe NAD’s usual honest, no-frills design and solid build for budget-priced gear; SoundStage explicitly praises its build quality among budget options. The unit is compact and efficient (lightweight chassis), offering good construction though not high-end exotic components.

Features Connectivity

93/100

Baseline functionality is strong and reviewers/Specs confirm a well-rounded feature set: DAC with 24/192 digital inputs, phono input suitable for MM/moving-iron cartridges, headphone output, Bluetooth, subwoofer output and standard analog ins/outs. That combination of DAC, phono, headphone and wireless makes it a fully featured package for the segment.

Value for Money

95/100

Reviewers repeatedly emphasize exceptional value — HomeTheaterHifi calls it “tremendous performance for only $549,” and SoundStage labels it “a superb integrated amplifier-DAC.” If judged at the reviewer-cited street price (~$549) the C 328 is a strong value; even against the listed MSRP ($799) reviewers still find its performance highly competitive for the category.

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