91%
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.
Dealers selling NAD near you
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 279 more verified dealers
NAD C 338 — compact hybrid power with built-in streaming
The NAD C 338 condenses NAD's hybrid Class D power and modern streaming into a compact integrated amplifier. Reviewers including Jim Milton (HomeTheaterHifi) and David Neice (Wall of Sound) praise its neutral, low-distortion character and the inclusion of a built-in phono stage and Burr Brown DAC. The sound blends tight, punchy bass with open mids and a pleasing sense of space, while dynamics and transient authority punch well above its 50W-per-channel rating.
Performance benefits from the Hypex UcD module and high peak-current capability; the C 338 runs cool and feels solidly built. With Chromecast built-in, app control, multiple digital inputs and a dedicated headphone amp, it suits streaming-first listeners, vinyl enthusiasts and compact system owners seeking a feature-rich, high-value integrated amp.
Pros
- Clean, low‑distortion, neutral presentation across digital, line and phono inputs with very low background noise.
- Exceptionally well‑equipped: Chromecast built‑in, Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, Burr Brown DAC, coax/optical inputs, moving‑mag phono stage, app/remote control and subwoofer/headphone outputs.
- Surprising dynamic headroom and punch for a compact 50W amp thanks to the Hypex UcD module, high peak current and strong damping.
&
Cons
- Line‑level inputs can sound slightly soft with reduced stage depth compared with the digital and phono inputs.
- Relatively few analog inputs and no balanced/XLR options, which may limit users with many legacy components.
- Bluetooth is convenient but was judged by a reviewer to be inferior to Wi‑Fi/Chromecast for critical listening.
- Minor usability omissions noted: the front display does not show sample‑rate information and Ethernet connectivity is absent.
Sound Quality
89/100
Dynamics
90/100
Reviewers consistently note impressive dynamic authority for a 50W-per-channel hybrid Class D design ("dynamic power available is quite something", "allows you to really open up the volume control"). The Hypex UcD module and high peak current/damping specs translate to strong transient punch and headroom relative to its topology. This is an excellent showing for its power class, delivering lively PRaT and controlled slam without obvious strain.
Soundstage Imaging
87/100
Soundstage is generally wide and well-layered ("wide and deep", "sense of space... wonderfully realized"), with particularly improved width/depth when using the phono input. A few reviewers noted a slight softness or reduced depth from some line-level inputs, so staging is very good but not reference-class in every configuration.
Show Less
Build Quality
89/100
Build and finishing are praised ("build quality on this amp is really lovely"), with solid speaker posts and good thermal behavior ("runs cool in a confined space"). The use of a quality Hypex module and thoughtful layout contribute to reliable operation and perceived solidity for the price point.
Features Connectivity
95/100
Very well equipped: Chromecast built-in (network streaming), Bluetooth, built-in Burr Brown DAC, optical/coax digital inputs, moving-magnet phono stage, dedicated headphone amp, subwoofer output and remote/app support. These combined extras place the unit at the top end of the features band for an integrated amp in this segment.
Value for Money
90/100
Reviewers explicitly call out strong value (MSRP ~$649, "there isn’t much more an audiophile could ask for", "well worth the cost"). The combination of sound quality, dynamics, features and build at this price point is repeatedly described as a compelling package.
Reviews
Online Reviews & Mentions
YouTube Reviews
Forum Mentions
No forum mentions found yet
Verified Dealers
Online Dealers
All Dealers
Zoom out the map to see more dealers