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Current NAD integrated amps, what are your impressions?

I just picked up a C326BEE and wanted to hear if my results are common, or what the general consensus is for NAD. I did some searching on this forum, but there doesn’t seem to be a lot of love or threads directed at NAD.

I actually acquired a C372 about 3 years ago, but sold it within a year as it seemed pretty bland and laid back. I’ve heard that this vintage wasn’t as reliable and my remote control did die. When I shipped it to the buyer it showed up DOA in one channel! I helped him with the repairs but it left me with reservations regarding NAD. From what I can gather, the current models are much more reliable.

So Spearit sound is clearing out refurbished NAD components, and I couldn’t resist the price(no affiliation). Bottom line, the 326 sounds way better than I expected. I’d been using a Denon AVR3801 in 2 channel with a second system, and the imaging, clarity and punch is easily better with the 326. I’m driving Tannoy DC4 bookshelf speakers and what a soundstage!. Diana Krall tracks are recorded with the piano mic’d so the lower register starts in the left speaker and the highest notes in the right. I’d not heard that with the Denon, but the 326 sets it out so clearly.

So what has your experience been with NAD?
213runnin
chrisr's avatar
chrisr
541 posts
 
I have had the 315bee in 2010. It worked great for about 1 year. Ended at the local recycling center.

What I liked:
AWSOME signature sound and dynamics, simplicity, tone controls defeat, look..

What I disliked:
Extra low quality pre-amp section, with volume control crackles after 3 weeks and over-sensitivity (max power attained at "noon").
RCA inputs, volume control, entire pre-amp section shorting after one year, making it unusable at that point.
Extra lightly build.

I was so surprised to find such low quality under the hood of the 315 and even higher models that I came to the conclusion: NEVER AGAIN NAD. It is very sad that they compromise their good signature sound with so low quality components and assembly.
In comparison, I have a yamaha receiver natural sound series, 22 years old, still working as new with not even a crackle. Doesn’t have the nad sound though.
Also a Yamaha dvd player, 10 years old and not a problem.
I also have a Marantz integrated 8400, 6 years old, on 24/7 and not a crackle. Sounds great and solid like a tank.
ALL as expensive or less than NAD.

Post removed 
213runnin OP
914 posts
 
Wow Chris, I don't blame you for your reaction, you really got a lemon.  I'd be curious to know what percentage of these Nad integrated amps develop issues.  Of the current series, I've now owned 4 of them with no issues, though I've only had one more than a year.  Also the C372 I had for close to a year(previous series), and it broke on the trip across the country to the new owner(we worked something out).

The C375BEE continues to improve now.  The speakers have completely disappeared, and it's just a pleasure to listen to at about 35 hours in with the Tannoy Precision 6.1 bookshelf speakers.  Again, I'm not sure how much benefit the PS Audio AC5 power cord is giving, perhaps this weekend I should replace it with the stock cord and compare.
mesch
3,394 posts
 
Chris, in as much as I like the NAD sound, if I had your experience I also would avoid the brand. If something go's wrong with my NAD356 I will look for a used Marantz 800x series integrated. 
willland's avatar
willland
846 posts
 

While all NAD gear I own and have owned have been stellar in reliability and sound quality, I do hear of some of their reliability issues. 

Chris, since you have had great luck with Yamaha, consider their analog line of integrated amps(A-S1000, 1100, 2000, 2100, 3000).  I am really fond of the "entry level" A-S1000 which has been rock solid reliable and rock solid built at 48.5 pounds.


Bill

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