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NAD C 379
The NAD C 379 HybridDigital DAC Amplifier delivers clean, dynamic sound from all your favourite music sources with the clarity and control expected from the Classic Series. Its HybridDigital UcD amplifier design and refined digital architecture reveal more detail and presence in every track, and its power amplifier section can be bridged to deliver 1 x 300 Watts into 8 ohms — or paired with the matching C 268 to create a powerful 2 x 300 Watts into 8 ohms system. With dual MDC2 slots, the C 379 can be expanded with high-resolution BluOS streaming and Dirac Live Room Correction. HDMI eARC, a Moving Magnet phono stage, and a dedicated headphone amplifier complete a versatile system built for everyday listening.
Includes Dirac Live® Limited Bandwidth licence and calibration microphone for room correction up to 500Hz - MDC2 BluOS-D card required
- 80 Watts per channel of HybridDigital UcD amplification
- High-performance DAC for detailed, low-noise playback
- Dual MDC2 expansion slots for future upgrades
- Optional BluOS high-resolution streaming and Dirac Live Room Correction
- Includes Dirac Live® Limited Bandwidth licence and calibration microphone for room correction up to 500Hz - MDC2 BluOS-D card required
- HDMI eARC input for seamless TV integration
- Moving Magnet phono stage with accurate RIAA equalization
- Two independent subwoofer outputs for flexible bass management
- Built-in headphone amplifier with high output capability
- Optical, coaxial, and analogue inputs for versatile system integration
- C 379 can be bridged with the matching C 268 power amplifier to create a powerful 2 x 300 Watts into 8 ohms system configuration
Powerful HybridDigital Amplification (Section 1 of 4)
The C 379 uses NAD’s HybridDigital UcD amplifier design to deliver 80 watts per channel of clean, dynamic power. Its fully balanced configuration reduces noise and distortion for a clearer, more controlled presentation across all volumes. Music feels effortless and detailed, from quiet passages to energetic peaks.
Detailed, Low-Noise Digital Playback. (Section 2 of 4)
A high-performance 32-bit digital-to-analogue stage provides low noise, wide dynamic range, and accurate stereo imaging. This precise conversion allows your favourite recordings to sound more open and revealing, helping you hear subtle textures and details that elevate everyday listening. The result is a natural, engaging presentation that brings you closer to the performance.
Upgradeable with MDC2 (Section 3 of 4)
With two MDC2 expansion slots, the C 379 adapts as your system evolves. Adding the optional MDC2 BluOS-D module enables high-resolution streaming, whole-home music control, and Dirac Live Room Correction through the BluOS Controller app. This upgrade path keeps the amplifier current with new features and technologies for years to come.
Connected for Modern Listening (Section 4 of 4)
HDMI eARC, a Moving Magnet phono stage, dual subwoofer outputs, and a dedicated headphone amplifier provide flexible options for all your music sources. Whether you are streaming wirelessly with aptX HD Bluetooth, enjoying vinyl, or connecting your TV, the C 379 integrates easily into your system. Its thoughtful design makes it simple to enjoy high-quality audio in any setup.
Dealers selling NAD near you
Authorized dealers for NAD C 379
- 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 379 — punchy, upgradeable integrated amplifier
The NAD C 379 pairs nimble, Hypex‑based power delivery with a modular upgrade path to deliver studio‑worthy performance in a compact package. Its 80 Wpc output (bridgeable to 300 W mono) and high damping factor produce tight, authoritative bass, weighty mids and sparkling, well‑defined treble, while reviewers praised its expansive imaging and headphone capability. The MDC2 BluOS‑D slot lets owners add Dirac Live, BluOS streaming, AirPlay 2 and advanced bass management, complementing stock HDMI eARC, dual optical/coax, MM phono and dual sub outputs. Construction feels solid—clearly labeled binding posts and cool thermal behavior under heavy loads—and the C 379 suits listeners wanting a flexible, long‑lived amp for two‑channel systems or multiroom setups. Reviewers including Dennis Burger of SoundStage Solo highlight its combination of performance and value.
Pros
- Strong, controlled bass and current delivery that supports heavy-duty tracks without strain.
- Impressive soundstage and imaging with precise instrument placement on both speakers and headphones.
- Modular MDC2 BluOS‑D upgrade and generous I/O (HDMI eARC, dual optical/coax, phono, dual subs) add versatility and future‑proofing.
- Excellent value for money: high performance and upgradeability at a competitive price point.
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Cons
- No native USB‑DAC input, which may matter to users who rely on direct USB computer sources.
- Bridge Mode switch can be left in the mono position out of the box—buyers should check switch position to avoid miswiring or overdriving speakers.
- Headphone auto‑mute delay is longer than ideal for some users.
Sound Quality
91/100
Dynamics
90/100
Review evidence shows strong current delivery and headroom for loud passages (could drive to very high listening levels, bridgeable for more power), with high damping factor (>300) and robust IHF dynamic power figures. Reviewers noted it could be driven hard without strain and the chassis stayed cool, indicating excellent transient control and power delivery for its 80 W/channel class.
Soundstage Imaging
92/100
Soundstage and imaging were highlighted repeatedly: '10/10. No notes', excellent instrument placement, and convincing front-to-back spread—also noted on headphones. The C 379 delivers precise, stable images and an expansive, well-layered presentation.
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Build Quality
89/100
Construction is described as closely resembling NAD's larger siblings, with thoughtful layout and clearly labeled, usable binding posts; thermal behavior is good (chassis remained cool under heavy use). Overall fit-and-finish and internal design give a sense of solidity and quality components without being flagship-level exotic.
Features Connectivity
92/100
Generous stock connectivity: HDMI eARC, two optical and two coaxial digital inputs, MM phono stage, headphone out, stereo preouts, dual subwoofer outputs, Bluetooth, and a built-in DAC supporting up to 24/192. The MDC2 BluOS-D modular upgrade path (adds Dirac Live, BluOS streaming, AirPlay2, etc.) further expands capabilities, making the platform unusually flexible for its segment.
Value for Money
94/100
Reviewers used strong value language ('best value I’ve encountered', 'budget-conscious integrated amp with zero performance compromises') and noted easy, low-cost upgrades via the MDC module. With the stock and BluOS-upgraded price points cited ($1,099 stock; $1,499 reviewed), reviewers felt the performance and feature set strongly justify the cost.
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