NAD Electronics has introduced the new C 356BEE Stereo Integrated Amplifier (80-watt x2 with both channels driven), which offers an energy efficiency desigin, patented technology, and modular design construction. NAD claims the C 356BEE is able to drive the most complex loudspeakers to their full musical potential, and can challenge amplifiers costing two to three times more.
With the very high dynamic power and low impedance drive capability of NAD's patented PowerDrive circuit, the C 356BEE offers musical, detailed, coherent and relaxed sound while accurately controlling difficult to drive loudspeakers. Even at elevated listening levels, NAD's exclusive Soft Clipping circuit gently transforms the sound waveform to save speakers (and ears) from damaging clipping distortion.
The C 356BEE expands NAD's Modular Design Construction (MDC) offerings in its venerable Classic Series. MDC greatly improves the C 356BEE's functionality and ease-of-use, while offering expansion and customisation possibilities as future MDC Modules are introduced. By equipping the C 356BEE with MDC, NAD has given users the option of adding the PP 375 Phono Stage Module, which integrates a very high performance phono input.
In line with NAD's position on environmental sustainability, the engineering team sought to reduce energy consumption in the C 356BEE without sacrificing performance. Thanks to a redesigned power supply, the C 356BEE's standby power is less than 0.5W. NAD's PowerDrive amplifier circuit provides the C 356BEE with the dynamic capability of an amplifier twice as powerful, while using only half the power. Another thoughtful energy-saving touch is the convenient fully off 'vacation' switch.
The C 356BEE is properly regulated with a high-current power supply, resulting in a continuous 4-ohm load and the lowest levels of distortion and noise in its price class. The C 356BEE's continuous power measures 80W x two channels, Full Disclosure Power (FDP). NAD uses the strict FDP performance criterion to measure amplifiers with all channels driven simultaneously over the full frequency bandwidth (20Hz – 20kHz), and at rated distortion.
Other high value features include Preamp Out; new improved speaker binding posts; sonically transparent sealed reed relay switches for all inputs; front panel mini-jack for iPod or MP3 player; tone controls for any necessary correction of music without adding colouration or distortion; and a remote control compatible with other select NAD products for complete system control.
Specifications
| Continuous output power into 8 Ω and 4 Ω (Stereo) | >80W (at rated THD, 20Hz-20kHz, both channels driven) |
| THD* 20Hz – 20kHz, CCIF IMD, SMPTE IMD, DIM 100 | <0.009% (250mW to 80W, 8 Ω and 4 Ω) |
| Clipping Power | >90W (at 1kHz 0.1% THD) |
| IHF Dynamic Headroom 8 Ohms | +2.6dB |
| IHF Dynamic Headroom 4 Ohms | +4.4dB |
| IHF Dynamic Power 8 Ohms | 145W |
| IHF Dynamic Power 4 Ohms | 220W |
| IHF Dynamic Power 2 Ohms | 290W |
| Signal/Noise Ratio | >92dB (IHF; A-weighted, 500mV input, ref. 1W out in 8 Ω) >110dB (IHF; A-weighted, ref. 80W in 8 Ω, max. volume) |
| Frequency Response | ±0.3dB (20Hz-20kHz, Tone Defeat ON) 10Hz – 65kHz (-3dB) |
| Standby Power | <0.5W |
| Idle Power | <40W |
| Rated Power | 350W (230V AC 50Hz; 120V AC 60Hz) |
| Unit Dimensions (W x H x D) Gross** | 435 x 130.86 x 337mm 17 1/8 x 5 3/16 x 13 5/16 inches*** |
| Net Weight | 8.7kg (19.2lbs***) |
| Shipping Weight | 10.6kg (23.4lbs***) |
* THD is the sum of all the harmonic components within the 80kHz measurement bandwidth and does not include noise.
** Gross dimensions include feet, buttons and rear panel terminals.
*** Non-metric measurements are approximate. NAD Electronics will not assume any liability for errors being made by retailers, custom
installers, cabinet makers, or other end users based on information contained in this document.
Note: Installers should allow a minimum clearance of 55mm for wire/cable management.
About NAD
Sold in over 80 countries, NAD Electronics is renowned worldwide for its range of innovative class-leading audio and video consumer electronics. Every NAD component is designed and manufactured with a philosophy for putting “Music First”, resulting in authentic, accurate, and detailed sound reproduction. When it comes to performance, NAD emphasises quality over quantity, preferring to focus on the inside where it counts– and where consumers can hear the results. NAD believes that the real point of home audio equipment is the enjoyment of lifelike, involving sound from music and movies — and that the qualities central to creating this are performance, simplicity, and value.
