Integrated amplifiers — NAD C 389

The C 389 is an integrated amplifier with a built-in DAC and phono stage from NAD, built with substantial output and a genuinely low output impedance. This model sits within NAD's more developed integrated amplifier catalogue, offering a meaningful step up in power over the C 368 and C 379 while retaining comprehensive digital and vinyl connectivity.

Key specs that matter

Two single-ended inputs plus phono are provided. Input sensitivity is 201 mV with a 56,000 ohm input impedance. Output impedance is 320 ohms. Output power is 210 W into 8 ohms, rising to 300 W into 4 ohms - a healthy if not perfectly clean doubling suggesting a genuinely capable power supply. Signal-to-noise exceeds 106 dB with distortion under 0.02%. At 435 x 100 x 390 mm and 8.7 kg it is a compact chassis for its considerable output, consistent with NAD's characteristically efficient amplifier design.

Sound and use context

Expect a controlled, higher-output presentation than NAD's C 368 or C 379, with the built-in phono stage and DAC covering both digital and vinyl sources directly - a genuinely capable mid-to-upper tier performer within NAD's broader integrated amplifier catalogue.

Pairing

The built-in phono stage removes the need for separate phono preamplifier, and the considerable 210/300 W output figures suit a genuinely wide range of loudspeaker sensitivities without unusual current concerns.

Alternatives

NAD's C 368 and C 379 sit below this model with more modest output; the flagship M33 sits above it with streaming built in, worth the further investment if this model's already substantial connectivity and power still leave ambitions for NAD's top current integrated amplifier tier. NAD extensive dealer network makes arranging a direct comparison against both the more accessible C 379 and the flagship M33 genuinely practical, helping clarify exactly where this mid-tier model fits for a specific system and budget. A dedicated ground connection between turntable and this amplifier built-in phono stage remains essential for hum-free operation, and standard analogue outputs work with any preamplifier accepting a conventional source connection. Overall this remains a genuinely capable mid-to-upper tier choice within NAD integrated amplifier catalogue. A dealer visit remains the simplest way to compare current pricing across NAD integrated amplifier lineup. Cable and stand choices matter far less at this price point than getting the basic loudspeaker pairing right.