NAD C320 Amplifier: Specs, Features & Performance Overview

C320 Integrated Amplifier

Date of manufacture : July 98 - Current

Please note that this document contains the text from the original product brochure, and some technical statements may now be out of date

•2 x 40 Watts continuous into 8ohms

•90 Watts dynamic power into 8ohms

•160 Watts dynamic power into 2ohms

•Impedance Sensing Circuitry (ISC)

•Full system remote control

•Headphones socket

•Relay input switching

•Toroid power transformer

•7 Line inputs, including two tape in/outs

•All discrete circuitry

•Short signal path from input to output

•All sockets gold plated

•Tone controls defeat switch

•Pre-out / Main-in

•Soft Clipping

•NAD Link

Introducing the C320. This amplifier is the latest in the family of NAD’s modestly priced integrated amplifiers which stretch back to the legendary 3020. One step up from the splendid 310, the C320 is fully remote controlled with the NAD C Series system controller and is destined to become yet another NAD classic.

Features

The C320 has 7 line inputs (including 2 tape in/outputs with dubbing facility) and the pre-amplifier section can be separated from the power amplifier for easy upgrades (bi-amping, for instance) or adding ancillary equipment without making the C320 redundant.

Tone controls tend to come and go on amplifiers, depending on whatever is in vogue at the time. This does not mean that tone controls should necessarily be regarded as a superfluous extra. Given proper thought and design, tone controls can make a genuine contribution to overall sound quality. The C320 tone controls only work at the frequency extremes leaving the critical mid-band essentially unaltered. The tone control circuits can be completely bypassed by using the tone defeat switch.

A closer look at ISC

The NAD C320 is one of the first products to benefit from Bjørn Erik Edvardsen's latest development. ISC topology - the letters stand for Impedance Sensing Circuit - allows the C320 to deliver maximum performance under virtually any circumstance, independent of the loudspeakers it is driving. The circuitry automatically recognises the impedance characteristics of the loudspeaker and will then adjust its power supply settings to best cope with that specific load.

NAD takes a stand against the mindless “brochure power” approach which doesn't give a realistic indication of an amplifier’s true capabilities. Instead, the ISC topology is a practical approach to enable an amplifier to easily deal with dynamics and difficult loads. More meaningful are the C320’s dynamic capabilities; up to 160 Watts into 2 ohms and up to 35 amps current capability!

C320 specifications

The NAD C320 is a distinguished integrated amplifier that has garnered a reputation for delivering exceptional sound quality while remaining accessible to the average consumer. This model, part of NAD's renowned C series, is designed to meet the needs of audio enthusiasts looking for a balanced blend of power, clarity, and functionality.

One of the main features of the NAD C320 is its robust power output. With a rated output of 50 watts per channel into 8 ohms, the amplifier provides ample power to drive a wide range of loudspeakers, from bookshelf models to larger floor-standing designs. The C320's power supply is engineered to maintain stability and dynamics, ensuring that it can handle peaks in audio playback without distortion.

The C320 is equipped with NAD's proprietary technology that enhances the sound reproduction quality. It uses a current feedback topology which allows for better transient response and delivers a more natural sound. This technology benefits the amplifier's overall performance by minimizing the typical coloration found in traditional amplifiers, resulting in an uncolored and accurate representation of music across various genres.

In terms of connectivity, the NAD C320 is designed with versatility in mind. It includes multiple line-level inputs, a phono input for connecting turntables, and a preamp output for integrating additional components like subwoofers or high-end processors. The amplifier also features a high-quality headphone output, making it an ideal choice for private listening sessions.

Another characteristic of the C320 is its well-thought-out design. The user interface is intuitive, allowing users to easily adjust volume and switch between inputs. The build quality is robust, with a solid chassis that minimizes vibrations and interference, further contributing to the purity of the audio signal.

The NAD C320 not only excels in performance but also in energy efficiency, featuring a power-saving design that consumes less energy when not in use. This characteristic aligns with modern consumer values, catering to those who are conscious of their environmental impact without compromising on sound quality.

In summary, the NAD C320 stands out for its powerful audio performance, innovative technologies, and thoughtful design. It appeals to both casual listeners and serious audiophiles looking for a dependable integrated amplifier that provides exceptional value and sound fidelity.