208THX Stereo Power Amplifier

Date of manufacture : Nov 92 - Dec 96

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note that this document contains the text from the original product brochure, and some technical statements may now be out of date

Designed and assembled to professional recording studio standards, the 208 delivers unsurpassed levels of high power combined with an enviable audiophile performance. Every aspect of the 208’s components, circuitry and features have been developed absolutely without compromise so that a much impressed reviewer in the respected Swedish audio journal New Music and Sound Technology wrote in June 1994, “This is the best power amplifier I have experienced ever”.

The specification which earned this and other similar accolades is awesome. First grade components are employed throughout, including precision metal film resistors, high quality capacitors and a truly massive toroidal transformer which assures a noise free open sound stage and totally transparent audio quality.

The MOSFET output stage delivers power plus signal speed and control, driving any loudspeaker load, even below I ohm. Switchable balanced and unbalanced connections are provided with a choice of professional XLR or phono sockets for more flexible use.

Although the NAD principles of uncluttered design are incorporated into the 208, Soft Clipping and Extended Dynamic Power circuits are included, which both protect the amplifier from over enthusiastic use of the volume control and add to the musicality without any loss of dynamics or dramatic performance.

Absolutely every relevant design detail has been considered, down to gold plating on the connectors and heavy duty binding post speaker terminals. The nominal 250 watts per channel will extend to 600 watts peak entirely without a sense of strain or effort.

Bridged for mono, a pair of 208’ s (a combination which won Five Star approval by What Hi Fi? in 1993), can provide up to 1800 watts peak, academic figures which nevertheless guarantee serious audio quality across the entire sound spectrum.

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NAD brochure 208THX Stereo Power Amplifier, Date of manufacture Nov 92 Dec

208THX specifications

The NAD 208THX is a high-performance power amplifier that has gained a reputation among audiophiles for its exceptional sound quality and reliable performance. Designed to meet the rigorous demands of both home theater and high-fidelity audio systems, the NAD 208THX employs advanced technologies and features that contribute to its stellar reputation in the audio community.

One of the standout features of the NAD 208THX is its THX certification. The THX standard ensures that audio equipment meets strict performance criteria, delivering accurate sound reproduction and maintaining audio integrity across a wide range of listening levels. This certification is particularly beneficial for home theater enthusiasts who seek a cinema-like experience at home.

The amplifier’s power output is impressive, offering 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms, with capabilities to deliver even more power when driving lower impedance loads. This ample power reserve allows the NAD 208THX to drive a variety of speakers, making it highly versatile for different audio setups. It can handle the demanding requirements of both large scale home theater systems and smaller Hi-Fi setups without compromising on sound quality.

In terms of connectivity, the NAD 208THX is equipped with a variety of inputs, including balanced XLR and single-ended RCA connections. This flexibility allows users to integrate the amplifier seamlessly into their existing audio systems. Furthermore, the advanced filtering and signal processing technologies employed in the NAD 208THX minimize distortion and interference, ensuring a clean and precise audio signal.

The proprietary Soft Clipping technology is another notable innovation in the NAD 208THX. This feature gently compresses the signal at higher volumes, reducing the potential for harsh distortion and creating a more musical listening experience. This design consideration is crucial for audiophiles who prefer to enjoy their music at elevated levels without the harshness that often accompanies clipping in traditional amplifiers.

Moreover, the build quality of the NAD 208THX is robust, featuring a sturdy chassis that not only enhances durability but also helps to reduce resonance and vibrations that could interfere with sound performance. The amp's design reflects a commitment to engineering excellence, ensuring it performs reliably over time.

In conclusion, the NAD 208THX sets itself apart with its combination of THX certification, ample power output, versatile connectivity options, advanced technologies, and quality construction. Whether used in a dedicated home theater setup or as part of a high-fidelity music system, the NAD 208THX delivers an outstanding audio experience that satisfies even the most discerning listeners.