When designing amplifiers, several factors have to be linked together: ergonomics, visual appeal, reliability and, of course, sound quality. If this is a “pure” end, then the former are not of fundamental importance, but the latter come to the fore and conflict with the most important indicator – price. NAD has always been famous for its ability to create high-quality products at the lowest cost, and my current research subject – the NAD C 268 two-channel power amplifier – is no exception.
NAD C 268 is made in a metal case, and the internal arrangement of the elements in it ensures free air circulation without the use of forced cooling. The NAD C 268 power amplifier is equipped with balanced inputs (also available on regular RCA connectors). The output stages, like those of the C 328 model, operate in class D; they are built on advanced Hypex UcD modules.
Each channel of the NAD C 268 is powered by its own rectifier equipped with filter capacitors of significant capacity. They have a reduced charge/discharge time, which is very important for accurate reproduction of energetic dynamic musical passages. The output stages of the amplifier contain high-current bipolar transistors, connected in parallel and selected for exact compliance with the specified performance characteristics.
The printed circuit boards of both channels have the same topology and increased metallization thickness, and the length of the signal transmission circuits on them is reduced to a minimum. In general, the design of the amplifier corresponds to the NAD ideology, which implies the elimination of the slightest factors that could negatively affect the sound quality.
Designed for multiple stereo systems, the NAD C 268 can be used in a variety of scenarios, including traditional preamp connections or bi-amping your favorite speakers. The NAD C 268 features a bridged speaker connection, seamlessly transforming its powerful output from 80 x 2 to an outstanding 300 watts. Although the C 268 may seem like a simple power amplifier, this Classic Series amplifier is packed with rich features that will enhance your system.
Characteristics of NAD C 268
Output power 2 x 80 W, 8 ohms
2 x 80 W, 4 ohms
1 x 300 W, 8 ohms bridged mode
Total harmonic distortion (20 Hz – 20 kHz) <0.03% (from 250 mW to 80 W, 8 Ohm and 4 Ohm)
Frequency response 20 Hz – 20 kHz, +/- 0.3 dB
Signal-to-noise ratio >98 dB
Input sensitivity 750 µV. (stereo)
Input impedance 50 kOhm fixed input
Damping factor, at 1 kHz >100
Audio inputs
Unbalanced (RCA) – 1 pair
Balanced (XLR) – 2
Unbalanced audio output (RCA) – 1 pair
Trigger input / output – 1 / 1
Consumption power 100 W, standby <0.5 W
Dimensions (WxHxD) 435 mm x 100 mm x 390 mm
Weight 7.3 kg
