NAD C 298: A robust and versatile stereo power amplifier

The NAD C 298 features effortless switching between balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs, complete with automatic signal detection and an adjustable threshold for optimal performance.

NAD C 298
NAD C 298

The NAD C 298 power amplifier features a robust metal chassis, designed to facilitate optimal air circulation without relying on active cooling systems. It includes balanced inputs, alongside standard RCA connectors. The amplifier allows for seamless switching between balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs, incorporating automatic signal detection with an adjustable threshold. Additionally, it offers a linear output (RCA only) for connecting extra amplifiers or an active subwoofer. For use in multi-component configurations, the ground terminal included in the NAD C 298 is a valuable addition.

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The NAD C 298 is powered by efficient circuits based on pulse sources. The circuit uses Eigentakt modules, which are manufactured by NAD under license from the Danish company Purifi. Purifi Eigentakt technology has made it possible to provide a power of 185 W per channel with an impedance of 8 Ohm speakers connected to the C 298 (the amplifier produces 340 W per channel to 4 Ohm speakers, and more than 570 W at peak). Each channel of the NAD C 298 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 the accurate reproduction of energetic dynamic musical passages.

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The amplifier’s output stages use high-current bipolar transistors, connected in parallel and selected for precise compliance with the specified operating 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. Overall, the amplifier’s design is in line with NAD’s philosophy of eliminating even the slightest factors that could negatively impact sound quality.

On the rear panel of the amplifier is a slide switch that puts the C 298 into bridged mode. In this case, with an 8-ohm speaker, the power of the resulting monoblock can reach 620 watts. Designed for multiple stereo systems, the NAD C 268 can be used in a variety of scenarios, including traditional connection with a preamplifier or for bi-amping your favorite loudspeakers.

NAD C 298 Features

  • Purifi Eigentakt Amplifier Technology
  • Output Power
  • 2 x 185W, 8 ohms
  • 2 x 340W, 4 ohms
  • 1 x 620W, 8 ohms bridged
  • Total Harmonic Distortion (20 Hz – 20 kHz) <0.03% (250 mW to 80 W, 8 ohms and 4 ohms)
  • 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>100Audio inputs 
  • Unbalanced (RCA) – 1 pair
  • Balanced (XLR) – 2
  • Unbalanced audio output (RCA) – 1 pair
  • Trigger input / output – 1 / 1
  • Power consumption 100 W, in standby <0.5 W
  • Dimensions (WxHxD) 435 mm x 120 mm x 390 mm
  • Weight 11.2 kg