High-current stereo integrated amplifier • 130W continuous power per channel into 8Ω and 4Ω • customized HybridDigital™ UcD amplifier stage • ESS SABRE 32-bit/384kHz ES9028 DAC • dual MDC2 expansion slots with optional MDC2 BluOS-D module • HDMI eARC audio input • ultra-low-noise MM phono preamplifier • dual subwoofer outputs
The NAD C 389 Hybrid/Digital Integrated Amplifier serves as a high-performance cornerstone for modern two-channel audio systems, uniting effortless dynamic power with forward-looking modular adaptability. Engineered with NAD's customized HybridDigital UcD output stages deployed in a fully balanced bridged configuration, this amplifier outputs 130 watts per channel of clean, continuous power into 8 or 4 ohms to drive difficult loudspeaker loads with total authority. Anchored by a reference ESS SABRE ES9028 DAC, HDMI eARC connectivity, an ultra-quiet MM phono stage, and support for the optional MDC2 BluOS-D module with Dirac Live room correction, it delivers reference clarity across digital, television, and vinyl sources.
Key Features & Innovations
Customized HybridDigital™ UcD Power Delivery — the NAD C 389 Hybrid/Digital Integrated Amplifier uses multiple UcD amplifier modules in a balanced bridge configuration backed by an innovative switch-mode power supply, generating 130W continuous and 210W transient power per channel with virtually zero distortion.
MDC2 Future-Proof Modular Expansion Architecture — incorporates dual Modular Design Construction (MDC2) card slots that support two-way signaling, allowing simple plug-in installation of the optional MDC2 BluOS-D module for high-res streaming and Dirac Live room acoustic correction.
Master-Grade ESS SABRE ES9028 Digital Conversion — leverages the 32-bit/384kHz ESS SABRE ES9028 DAC chip renowned for wide dynamic range, ultra-low jitter, and hyper-linear response to deliver clean decoding across optical, coaxial, and HDMI sources.
HDMI eARC for Seamless TV Sound Integration — enables direct connection to smart televisions via HDMI eARC, providing uncompressed digital stereo sound from film and streaming services with TV remote volume control and CEC power synchronization.
Ultra-Low-Noise MM Phono Stage with Infrasonic Filter — features a precision Moving Magnet phono input that eliminates unwanted vinyl warp rumble via an innovative infrasonic cancellation circuit without attenuating low-end bass impact.
FAQ — NAD C 389
What capabilities does the optional MDC2 BluOS-D module add to the NAD C 389 Hybrid/Digital Integrated Amplifier?
When installed in the NAD C 389 Hybrid/Digital Integrated Amplifier, the MDC2 BluOS-D module adds 24-bit/192kHz multi-room wireless music streaming across Wi-Fi or Ethernet (via BluOS, Apple AirPlay 2, and Roon Ready) plus Dirac Live room acoustic correction with an included measurement microphone.
Can I connect two active subwoofers to this amplifier?
Yes. The back panel features dual independent mono RCA subwoofer pre-outs, allowing you to connect one or two powered subwoofers for balanced bass distribution across your room.
Does the C 389 support two pairs of speakers?
Yes. It is equipped with heavy-duty A and B speaker output binding posts, selectable via the front panel or the included remote control for driving two separate pairs of loudspeakers.
Does the amplifier include a dedicated headphone output?
Yes, the front panel features a full-sized 6.3 mm (1/4") headphone jack powered by an independent low-output-impedance headphone amplifier stage suited for demanding studio and audiophile headphones.
Why Buy From Us
Authorized NAD Electronics reference dealer offering 100% genuine, factory-fresh components with full manufacturer warranty protection
Experienced audio specialists available to advise on MDC2 module installation, speaker impedance pairing, and TV eARC setup
Dedicated post-purchase customer support for Dirac Live calibration, network configuration, and firmware management
Fast, fully insured priority delivery in heavy-duty manufacturer protective packaging on every order
Related & System Matches
NAD MDC2 BluOS-D streaming and Dirac Live expansion module
KEF Q Series Meta or Wharfedale Linton Heritage loudspeakers
Audio-Technica AT-LP8X or Dual CS 429 turntables for analog playback
Heavy-gauge oxygen-free copper speaker cables and AudioQuest HDMI interconnects
