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NAD C 338
The NAD C 338 HybridDigital DAC Amplifier delivers the kind of clean, dynamic performance NAD is known for, packaged in a minimalist design that fits effortlessly into smaller hi-fi setups. Google Cast™, Bluetooth, and multiple digital inputs make it easy to enjoy wireless and connected sources with simple setup. Its HybridDigital™ amplification and carefully refined circuitry provide
stable, low-noise power that brings music to life. With a built-in MM phono stage and thoughtful connectivity, it offers a flexible foundation for smaller rooms or a first hi-fi system.
- 50 Watts per channel of HybridDigital amplification into 8 or 4 ohms
- Google Cast and Bluetooth for simple wireless music streaming
- High-performance DAC stage for clear, low-noise digital playback
- Built-in MM phono input with accurate RIAA equalisation
- Optical and coaxial digital inputs for versatile source connection
- Line-level analogue inputs for traditional audio components
- Dedicated headphone amplifier capable of driving high-impedance headphones
- Subwoofer output for expanding low-frequency performance
- Low-noise circuitry and stable power supply for consistent, distortion-free listening
- Award-winning design ideal for smaller rooms or first-time hi-fi systems
Easy Streaming from Your Favourite Apps (Section 1 of 4)
With Google Cast and Bluetooth support, the C 338 makes it easy to stream music from compatible apps and devices. Casting or pairing takes only moments, giving you quick access to playlists, podcasts, and streaming services without added hardware. Combined with its digital inputs, the C 338 offers a straightforward way to enjoy a wide range of wireless and connected sources.
Clean, Confident HybridDigital Power (Section 2 of 4)
The C 338 uses HybridDigital amplification to deliver 50 Watts per channel with the clarity and control NAD is known for. This efficient design maintains performance even with dynamic material or challenging speaker loads. The result is a refined, expressive sound that feels larger than the amplifier’s compact footprint suggests.
Versatile Connections for Growing Systems (Section 3 of 4)
Whether you’re connecting a turntable, TV, gaming system, or other digital source, the C 338 provides the inputs you need to build a simple, modern hi-fi setup. Its MM phono stage supports vinyl playback with accurate, low-noise performance, while optical, coaxial, and analogue inputs accommodate a wide variety of sources. A dedicated headphone amplifier and subwoofer output add flexibility as your system evolves.
Designed for Daily Listening (Section 4 of 4)
The C 338 is easy to use and includes an efficient power supply that maintains stable performance while keeping energy consumption low. Its compact form factor fits easily into smaller rooms or multi-purpose spaces, while features like Auto Standby help keep listening seamless. The C 338 brings practical convenience to modern living without compromising musical enjoyment.
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Professional Reviews 90/100
Deliciously Crispy
Sound Quality
88/100
Build Quality
88/100
Features Connectivity
95/100
Value for Money
93/100
The NAD C 338 delivers a smooth, warm-leaning sound with taut bass, natural midrange detail and an invitingly spacious presentation. HomeTheaterHifi praised its clean dynamics and quiet operation, while SoundStage Solo admired its flexible Chromecast streaming, capable DAC and broad soundstage. Phono, subwoofer and headphone connections make this a remarkably complete compact hub.
What Reviewers Are Saying
Pros
Smooth, natural presentation with controlled bass, strong clarity and a spacious soundstage.
Chromecast built-in and Wi-Fi streaming are notably seamless, flexible and easy to use.
Excellent source versatility for the size, including a capable DAC, MM phono stage, digital inputs, headphone output and subwoofer output.
Cool-running, compact Class D design with solid construction and useful power for small to medium rooms.
&
Cons
Treble is slightly softened and the presentation can give up some ultimate air, detail and attack to stronger rivals.
No Ethernet or USB input; Bluetooth streaming is not considered audiophile-grade.
The 50W-per-channel rating is best matched with moderately efficient speakers in small or medium rooms.
SOUND QUALITY PERFORMANCE 88/100
Reviewers find the C 338 clean, composed, and engaging, with notably strong bass control and a generally smooth presentation. Its character leans slightly warm and mid-forward rather than ruthlessly neutral, while treble air, low-level detail, and stage depth are modestly curtailed in some setups.
Transparency Resolution
88/100
HomeTheaterHifi heard clean, pure sound and a silent background between tracks, while Audiophilepure praised the clarity and definition available from the digital and phono inputs. Several reviewers note a small trade-off in ultimate air and fine detail, with SoundStage Solo finding the presentation smooth at the expense of some piano detail.
Tonal Balance Musicality
89/100
The tonal presentation is widely described as natural, smooth, and easy to listen to, with Wall of Sound and HomeTheaterHifi emphasizing its neutral, honest character. A British Audiophile and Andrew Robinson instead hear a slightly warm, rich, mid-centric balance with rounded highs, which makes the NAD forgiving rather than aggressive.
Dynamics
88/100
The C 338 remains controlled as levels rise and draws praise for its dynamic power, natural flow, and ability to play loudly without strain. However, Audiophilepure found rhythm and timing less lively at low volume, while Andrew Robinson considered dynamics good rather than explosive and A British Audiophile found bass less quick and hard-hitting than a rival.
Soundstage Imaging
87/100
SoundStage Solo heard a broad, deep stage with a convincing sense of space, and HomeTheaterHifi praised the way the NAD conveyed orchestral ambience. Wall of Sound found the line-level presentation somewhat soft and restricted in depth, though vinyl playback opened up with greater width, depth, and layering.
Assessments of Build Quality, Usability, and Overall Propositions.
Build Quality
88/100
Reviewers describe a reassuringly dense steel cabinet, good-quality speaker terminals, and first-rate construction despite the utilitarian materials. The front panel is plastic, albeit with a pleasant tactile feel, while the cool-running behavior is a practical advantage for compact installations.
Features Connectivity
95/100
The C 338 combines a capable DAC, Chromecast built-in, Wi-Fi streaming, Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, MM phono input, headphone amplifier, subwoofer output, and both analogue and digital inputs. Chromecast is repeatedly singled out as particularly seamless and flexible, although the lack of Ethernet and the weaker sound quality of Bluetooth streaming are worth noting.
Value for Money
93/100
At its reviewed pricing of roughly $650-$700 and £600, reviewers repeatedly regard the C 338 as excellent value. HomeTheaterHifi called it a fantastic component for casual and critical listeners, SoundStage Solo praised its value for Chromecast users, and A British Audiophile considered it highly recommended at its price against competing amplifiers.
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Verified Dealers
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Authorized dealers for NAD C 338
- Holt Hill — online and in-store — Andover, Massachusetts, United States (website)
- Resolution A/V — in-store — New York City, New York, United States (website)
- The Music Room — online and in-store — Erie, Colorado, United States (website)
- Aalen Hifi — in-store — Schwäbisch Gmünd, Baden-Wurtemberg, Germany (website)
- Absolute Audio - Canada — in-store — Calgary, Alberta, Canada (website)
- Abt Electronics — online and in-store — Glenview, Illinois, United States (website)
- Acoustic Technologies — online and in-store — Montréal, Québec, Canada (website)
- AES — in-store — Mitte, Hessen, Germany (website)
- Ahead Stereo — in-store — Los Angeles, California, United States (website)
- Alex Audio Video — in-store — Sofia, Sofia City Province, Bulgaria (website)
and 281 more verified dealers