Hegel Killer? An Integrated Amp for Android at an Affordable Price - NAD C338 Amp Review
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- Опубліковано 29 лис 2024
- NAD C338 Integrated Amp bit.ly/3AKGfT8
SMSL DA9 amzn.to/3ADfqjT
Emotiva TA1 bit.ly/3AMpV4r
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I'm curious about that Yamaha receiver behind you, it looks like the first serious piece of audio equipment I ever bought, what is the power output?
what the hell is this crap, this is not high end, it's a children toy?????!!!
@@TheMeridian808 thank you for watching the ads and your valuable and well thought out input.
@@musicman8270 it’s a CR800 from the late 70’s or early 80’s. I think 60 watts a channel
@@cheapaudioman loool
What's holding the NAD back is its internal DAC. I own the NAD C368 (the bigger brother to C338) paired with KEF LS50 Meta and once I replaced the internal DAC with Schiit Bifrost, the entire sound stage changed where (to many viewing ears) became the perfect balance creating an excellent sound stage. So if you are entertaining the C338, replace the internal DAC with something else and you will achieve a significantly better sound. The NAD C368 puts out a sound that is extremely clean , very 'clinical' in sound, with a lot of detail. The Schiit Bifrost adds the missing warmth without removing any of the detail. 1 note: if you are using the built in bluetooth/wireless/Ethernet streamer - you will be required to use the build in DAC, no way to bypass it.
How do you bypass the internal DAC? I also own the C368…
@@madisongraham9307 to to NAD C368. Example: if you have an external CD player or computer, connect those outputs to the external DAC, external DAC to NAD RCA inputs. Technically you are still using the internal NAD DAC, but the external DAC changes the sound because the NAD DAC is very clinically neutral.
We were burgled in the late 90’s. They took my Mission Cyrus Two with PSX, CD player. They couldn’t carry the Dali floor standers. Emergency purchase of a NAD integrated , CD Player and its still the only piece of audio equipment I have never sold. My son has it hooked up to a pair of Monitor Audio bookshelf speakers. We added a streamer. Very reliable and sounds amazing 20 years on.
RANDY....... been with you from the beginning man. Just had to take a second and commend you on how good your B-roll, transitions, and editing have gotten! I know that is something rarely appreciated, but the mechanics of putting together a good cohesive video can be extremely difficult and there is a steep learning curve. Your hard work is not going unnoticed.
I have had this amp for three years and I think it's great. Works with Google home and Alexa so you don't "need' an Android phone but makes Amazon HD integration seamless. . Also there is a Nad app for your phone which you can use as a remote. I have it paired with Elac debut floorstanders and an Elac sub, so I don't need to use the bass boost. Hooked up a Rega P2 and a Nad CD player and I find it pretty faultless. Have wondered if there is anything to upgrade on that system, but it seems to all work well together, so I am sticking with it. I did try it with so UB5s I have, but I don't think it sounded great. They just need more power.
it’s awesome
How do you hook up Alexa through this amp to get Amazon HD? It has Chromecast didn't think you could do both.
Wow Randy, your editing skills, transitions, b-roll are getting even better. Amazing!
You might find the NAD C316BEE (class AB) better suited to your taste. Paired with the Schiit Modi3+ (still cheaper together than the C338) it’s pretty sweet, no complaints about the bass, very full sounding amp. I always find that going for separate components in the end gives you better value for money. However as a minimalist solution the C338 is very good.
Cheers Randy
This is good advise for someone shopping in this budget. I have the step up and it performed better than anything else I tried in that price range. Buy an old bee and an old but high quality dac like a benchmark or ps audio. And you're set for electronics.
Use the NAD 388 more power more features and you can add Modules to upgrate for your needs.I had many systems during the last 52 years and came to the conclusion all in one box is convenient by far less cables and its the way to go at least for me.
What drew me to NAD was their full feature set. The convenience of an all in one box saves me time and money. Are they perfect? No, they do have their quirks, but they still put a smile on my face at the end of the day and that's all that matters. I'd like to hear your thoughts on the C368 or the C388. Maybe NAD will be kind enough to send you in some review samples.
The probleme with nad is their poor quality control! Often unreliable products!
I suspect that devices like this are the real reason the Chromecast Audio no longer exists. You can't charge third parties a ton of money in licensing fees when you sell a $25 device that makes the feature ("Chromecast built-in") pointless.
If we are talking about "cheap audio," the Chromecast Audio was a grand slam homerun in my opinion.
Absolutely correct. I bought a bunch of Chromecast Audio devices just before they were discontinued for $12.50 a piece. When it’s working they sound very good and I can stream to multiple systems simultaneously. However, music starts to skip and buffer often. I think it’s because my wi-fi is too slow…✌🏻
I’d really like to see you review some more sources. CD, Turntable etc. A lot of “audiophile” reviewers recommend sources that are not “cheap” whatsoever.
Thanks Randy great review of the NAD C338. Your video quality has gotten really good and nice cuts to the b roll. This integrated has a lot of features built into it, should make someone a great unit.
I'm listening to you on this amp. For the price I love it. Sounds awesome!
With Klipsch 5000. With 2 powered 8" subs.
I love that your song examples are things to which I may actually listen, like AC/DC, Nirvana, Zeppelin, etc.
Not Himalayan Throat Singers, or electronic dance noise.
Na man, there is some really good electronic stuff out there. It's a huge genre.
Mongolian Throat singers are Awesome !
NAD are very good. They will always have a special place in my heart for making the 3020A, the first piece of proper HiFi gear I ever bought. Actually, it’s their fault I’m always skint, if I’d never heard that amp I would be happy with terrible sound.
I'm rocking the NAD C368 and Elac DFR52 towers. I found I didn't need a sub after hooking up my Quad 405 power amp. Quite the difference.
I love your sense of humour and delivery style. Puts a smile on my dial. 👍🏻
Agreed...this guy has "it"...hoping audio-man hit's 100,000 next year.
I've always liked NAD for what they do. Usually pretty good sound quality and lots of bang for the buck.
That doesn't last long before you have to have it serviced
@@bryanglassglass8971
Based on?
My NAD c326bee is running for 11 years now and not a single problem. Does that say anything? Nope.
NAD experienced some quality issues with a specific line, but that was many years ago. Almost all well known audiobrands have dropouts Perhaps it's more in the eye of the beholder.
My Hegel H90 was done after 2 weeks, never buy a Hegel again?
I bought a nad amp in the late 80's, a 2030 I believe. It was extremely unreliable. The dealer traded out twice and they failed also. I would NEVER buy another component from them. From what I understand many people feel the same way for the same reasons. It's a shame!
@@phillipmaxwell6882 I sold audio back in the late 80's and early 90's. I have seen every single brand in for service at one time or another. I understand that when you get burned once you tend to never go back. I am from the school of thought that anything electronic can and does fail from time to time. If you do find a brand that works for you, fine, stick with it.
@@34332 my c326 has been kicked,dropped, steped on. The corners are broken of the front and the top is dented. Still works like new though ...
Dang! The info music brings the BOOM with the morning cup of caffeine. Thanks CAM!
BTW, it looks like you have gathered more gear than Best Buy has in stock. Must be so much fun!
I've only just seen this video (new subscriber) and would like to make the following comment: I have had this amp for the best part of two years along with the NAD C538 CD feeding into Monitor Audio Bronze 100 loudspeakers. I haven't noticed the aspects you mentioned; maybe due to my amp/speaker combo or my hearing dropping off as I getting too old|! Also, I do use the Mac ecosystem and it connects to the and way better than my Android phone etc ever did - there's always Google Home on IOS if anyone gets stuck. For me, what I have is perfect, and as you know that's the whole point! Keep up the good work...
If you're thinking of this unit, but want that "more heft" version, check out the C388. Moving from the bottom of the series C338 to the top of the series C388, brings triple the power, stereo sub-outs, MDC expansion slots, legitimate display screen, etc. BluOS2i expansion module turns a C388 into a PowerNode on steroids. Check US Audio Mart for C388, this unit's biggest brother (you know the one... played varsity ball his freshman year). Find one with BluOS2i already installed.
I have a nad 316bee v2, really good for the £250 new I paid. It’s not my main amp but I like the throw it into the system now and again. Feed it a good source and it really sings.
Ahhh NAD, the Subaru of the hi-fi world.
It just bugs me that you can’t use your own DAC with streaming on this amp.
The C316 bee V2 IMO is the better pure piece and can be paired w/a streamer of your choice and the option for your DAC or your steamer’s DAC.
I have a soft spot for NAD though.
Great review Randy 🤘🏻
FWIW, the amp pairs well with a range of speakers. I've used one of these with a number of speakers ranging from NHT C3 to Zu DW6, all with good results.
We still really need that review on Marantz PM6006 or PM6007
I have my C338 matched with Mordaunt Short Mezzo 2..yup it has a metal dome tweeter. It was unbelivable how much control it has over the Mezzos . Listen to Kaleida's Think..you'd be blown away!
I paired mine with Dynaudio X-34s. There were lots of things that impressed me about the C338. For me, whatever NAD say, _this_ is the true descendant of the 3020 series (which is what I had before). For me, the C338 punches well above its weight. It didn’t have the quirkiness of the Schitt system I looked at and it was simpler than the Emotiva I looked at, although it doesn’t have USB (which is a small but not insurmountable problem). That’s about it’s only fault.
I love you [cheap audio] man.
Hey, nice to see you giving NAD some attention!
No other EQ provided except for the "bass EQ" button, correct? For me and my room and speakers, that's not adequate. Not even a balance control?
Hol up a minute..... Randy, did you get a box light?? You're really upping your production quality!
Noice Intro B-roll... NRD style 👍👍
You have the Wharfedale 4.1's?....or did you misspeak, the 2 way version intrigues me and there aren't many reviews out there
Good Morning Randy! I have a 22 year old NAD C340 with a Chromecast Audio / E30. I wonder how it would compare.
Good review. I had nad both have Hegel now better than nad on all aspects But a bit more expensive
6:00 Mated to Dynaudio X34s, I _never_ have the bass EQ on. My old 3020 needed it but the C338 doesn’t.
I bought a C 328 for my girlfriend 2 years ago.The C 328 is the
version of the C 328 without streaming components and is 250$ cheaper.
Like his dynamic and clear sound.And cause its a Classe D amp it need less power.
I’ve been curious as to your thoughts on some of the NAD. Stuff. Good review thanks. I was kinda hoping the new Emotiva Pt1 A2 combo had a bit better detail over the old PT100 A300 combo. But judging by your comparison to the NAD it’s probably very similar from new to old. Perhaps a small improvement. I’m still waiting for Emotivas new products that are supposed to come out year end before I pull the trigger. Very curious to see what they will be.
Nice B-roll! The music is is awesome!
Randy please recomend a good speakers and amp arround 50 watt power that works excellent in low volume under 65 db.
Your intro about the "audiophile mouse"🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣...love all your intro's btw👌👍
Hegel Killer?
Was that clickbait?
Which Hegel?
Great review regardless
PS what is that mouse you mentioned? i cannot find one
When you said AUDIOPHILE mouse I got interested LOL
Hi, talking about the "TV" connection: my Sony Bravia doesn't have only HDMI outuput so I have to use a analogues connection with my preamplifier.
The Geshelli looks awesome on that stack.
Great review! I'm considering this amp with the KEF Q350 speakers.
I purchased a Sith Audio TX-180C mouse and the frequency response of the mouse clicks was just slightly north of annoying.
Need to add a Schiit Loki EQ in the chain...you can dial down the high end a bit...
You need to upgrade to the Sith Audio surface decoupling exoti-foam mouse mat TM-211.
It converts the bad high frequency distortion into reversed polarity musicality particles (muons).
I use a device to strip digital audio from an HDMI connection and output spdif, which allows me to use a regular Chromecast on my dac of choice.
Good review. How does this pair with KEF Q350? Currently using an old Yamaha HTR5760 A/V running as a 2 Channel amp
Informative review, Randy. You say that the NAD 338 doesn't sound harsh like IOTAVX. Does that mean you have an IOTAVX in for review? I'm sure that many of us would like to hear your opinion on the IOTAVX as well.
I was really surprised to see that Sith Audio licensed their patented audiophile sonic mouse technology to Logitech. It really has me concerned now when I shop for Sith Audio gear because how dare we let non-audiophile people into the club of exclusivity? Just goes to show you that Sith Audio is becoming one of those watered-down big box brands. I hope I never see them at Walmart. Randy please do an in-depth review of the new Sith Audio Audiophile grade mouse. We need to know if we can still trust this brand.
Hi. Don't know much about Chromecast; does it require the control device to be on all the time, and does it play Amazon losslessly? Regarding Spotify Connect, I believe this does not require the control device to remain on, but does it play Spotify losslessly? Finally, what's the subwoofer cutoff frequency, and does it apply HPF to the main speakers? Thanks a lot for your great reviews and humor. Keep the sponsors going.
Re: Chromecast/Spotify Connect, control devices can be shutoff. Sub-out is 200Hz and below, non-adjustable. Full range is still send to mains.
Any thoughts on an independent Eq for either this sys. Or the $350 Sys.? Speaker wise how would yiu characterize old Kef 104ab's who's sound I always liked and do any of your choices budget wise give you the Kef impression?
The improvement in sound you heard after a period of listening might have been due to burn-in as internal components settle down?
I dont know what the amplifier is for? All i know is it gives you more transmitting power on the X frequency you are broadcasting on but in audiophile term, is it like a broadcast audio processor where you can adjust the bass, compressor, limiters etc...
SMSL DA9/AO200 with external dac or NAD c338 with external sub? Source - PC / wiim pro only.
Randy please review the Klipsch The Fives. Yes I know they’ve been out for a while but I’d like your take. Yes I know they are pricey, but they are an integrated amp and speakers in one (with HDMI ARC) so I think the cheap audio proposition is there. Please DO IT.
Randy, I need suggestions. Looking to do a little up grading of my system in the turn table area. I currently have a marantz TT42 turn table,with a ortofon 2M red installed. I know I can swap out the 2M red for a 2M Blue,cost is a little over $200.00. here is the other options get a RT85 with a 2M Blue installed($499.99) or a Audio Technica 120 and install a 2M Blue on it. I know the RT85 is a belt drive and the AT 120 is DD. I am using a Marantz PM 6006 integrated amp that has a Phone preamp . I have my amp driving a pair of Klispch RP 5000. so what would be the best way to go. I like your opinions on equipment, as I am using a ifi Zen Dac hooked to my lap top hooked into my amp.
Can you also review Audiolab 6000A?
Hey Randy. Loving your channel. Quick question about the Amazon links. Is there any way of checking what power adapters come with the equipment for us overseas viewers? Would hate to think you’d be missing out on a commission where we have to buy from Amazon in our own country.
I appreciate that. I'm not sure. I'll have to dig into that a little bit more.
Are small subwoofer amps any good to run a passive 12" speaker, if so which one would you recommend.
Cheapaudioman, excuse my ignorance. What is Chromecast? I adapted my NAD 1300 Preamo & NAD 2600 Amp - owned since 1987 without any issue - to use BT by adding a BT Receiver (1MII from EEC about $99 ?) a small unit connected to the NAD 1300 and connect Streaming services using my Google Phone (Pandora, Spotify, TIDAL). I have an ECHO and that too can be connected to the BRO BT [it has HD switch too] unit and then use Alexa to play music too. Works like a Charm. What are the advantages of the NAD C338 to my system hookup?
Forgot to add: When doing this, if I get a Text , the text tone will engage while playing Music using the BT Receiver . The same for using Non subscribed Streaming services that have commercial interruptions. That's a PIA.
can you answer this one for me? If i put this thing beside my Sansui G 8000 which one would be better??? Dealer locally wont let me to a comparo in his shop.
Do you happen to know if the NAD includes a crossover for the sub output? Or does it just send the full-range signal to the sub?
@@handcoding on the C338, the sub-out sends from 200Hz and below. It's not adjustable.
@@hermanknief ooof.
audiophile mouse idea could be better than audiophile network cable :)
Hey Rendy, what do you think what amp is better for Jamo speakers Denon PMA 600 or Nad C 338
Hey Randy. Thanks for the review. Can you check out the Monoprice Pure Tube Amplifier and give us your thoughts? Thanks in advance.
I know you had said that that SVS prime wireless was the best class d amp you've heard. Do you still feel the same way after listening to this NAD. Which one would be the better option as far as overall better clarity and detailed with good imaging and soundstage for low to moderate volume listening in a medium-sized room?
For detail and clarity hands down the NAD. It does lack a bit of body on the bottom end and doesn’t have tone controls. Only a bass boost. But the SVS doesn’t have tone controls either.
@@cheapaudioman ok. Thank you plus I think Chromecast app has more options for streaming
Update. I ended up pairing the NAD with the polk es15 and I think it gives a much fuller sound to the amp. Much better than my original pairing of the Jamos s803. Thanks Cheapaudioman! 😁
About the heading. Have you ever heard or been in the same room with a Hegel amp? The Hegel integrated that they like with the Magnepan LRS has a damping factor of 1000. That's right. 1 followed by 3 zeros! I don't know if even Krell amps have stop and start capability quite like that. There was a great video about a guy who built a great acoustic in his home and built his own turntable. He used Krell amps. People are expecting an answer to the heading question. NAD is known throughout the decades for good value. Many years ago the NAD 3020 integrated sounded sweet with a great midrange while most other integrateds of the day sounded edgy and transistory. Glad if NAD is doing what it is known for; punching above it's price!
Oh man, look at that beautiful D roll!
So, does it have tone controls? +1 for the Emotiva, then.
Can you you suggest a good bypass amplifier with a dac so I won't be using my Marantz Amp dac thank you in advance
I am thinking about this unit with Dali Oberon 5 will this work good together???
GO NAD!
Great nad amplifier... But not enough analog imputs., Where i connet my turntable with mc cartridge and external phono preamp, my external dac where i put my cd player and my pc, and where i connect my deck tape.... I like instead the nad 368 with more analog imputs.. i need at least 3 analog imputs..
So which of all these "cheaper" amps has the cleanest power? An amps not an amp if is doesn't do it job properly.
can these drive my dali opticon 2 (145 w @4 ohms)? else please suggest
Randy its the weekend, I am not drinking coffee. I have Killian Red. So lets see something amusing.
Sir i have nad 320bee kef coda 7 sir i want to listen song liw volume with bass and detail what i need to do
Nice one Randy, but kinda click bait-y.I have the Hegel H390 and the NAD 388, couple steps up from the 338, the NAD is not in the same league nor galaxy as the Hegel. I owned the 388 for 2 years is powerful and commands the my 4ohm floorstanders confidently it also delivers sound staging thats impressive but the Hegel takes all that and expands in all axis' in multiples. The Hegel sound stage is so good its eerie.
It shouldn't be in the same league ones £1300 the other £5000
Mmmmm, Cambridge Audio AXR100 exists and with an Echo link or any of the streamers in the 200 range that you kindly recommended in the past it is more goodness for the same price...IMHO
Why is this amp a 'Hegel Killer' as stated in the title..? There is no reference to the Hegel nor it's specific models of amps so I am confused by the title of this video....?
It was totally click bait. I did mention Hegel once. But yeah. Click bait.
Wait until you hear the improvements that a custom Sorbothane mouse pad bring. It's like discovering night and day.
I haven't purchased an integrated amp since the early 80s. I've been using 5.0 (I don't use a subwoofer) setups for nearly the past 2 decades, but now have a need for a stereo only setup. QUESTION: When did a simple "record out" set of outputs become a rarity on integrated amps?
Cool background music :)
Writing "Hegel killer?" when not comparing it with a Hegel seems a bit misleading though...
It was total click bait.
Nice review!
I have the one of NAD’s masters series products. It broke after 13 months and the company seems unwilling or unable to repair or replace it in a timely manner. The customer service is best described as laughable. I can’t imagine how poorly they treat customers of their budget gear. I’d look for a product produced by a company that respects their customers, provides reliable products, and honors their warranties.
What did your dealer say? They should be handling this for you.
@@AT-wl9yq the dealer did arrange for a replacement, now the replacement is broken too. Boo NAD. The dealer once again offered to help - really speaks to the value of a good dealer. We’ll see what NAD does.
Yes, nad products are unreliable!
What I don't like is that it doesn't have a tone control. Was going to buy it but that hold me from buy it.
Good Sunday morning to you great video thank you bunches I have an Apple phone so I will not be looking into this product but I love your contact and I miss your speaker shoot out
look at the Hegel integrated with airplay. H90 if you don't need a ton of power
@@DWTWilt what are the chances of you sending me a link?
How do I get that audiophile mouse?
Good review. So so amp. A Hegel killer? 🤔 I don't think so!!!
is it bluos compatible
Hay Randy, ya know I got mutton’ but luv for your program, what with all that talk ‘bout elec’trisity, them fancy amp’la’fryare, them spin-tables, and such.
But I’m a not see’in that there NAD is a Hagel killer. Just not see’in’it.
Buy you keep up the good work, ‘splain’in all that teknikle stereo stuff a da like. 😉
Nice review. It would be nice and very helpfull to review cd players.
I’ve got one in the works
I'm saving up for the new Nad C399 As from what I've heard it's going to be a game chamger
No tone controls for $700? No thanks. I'll take the Cambridge AXR85 with 85 watts, tone controls, subwoofer out, the ability to drive two pairs of speakers, and an FM tuner for $400, with stellar sound quality
Yeah...well...it can't touch Heidegger! And Camus...forget it!
When I bought my bedroom integrated amp, sound demoed both this and an Arcam sa10.... I bought the Arcam, better sound and much better build quality.
NAD build quality feels cheap.
To be fair, the Arcam is about $100 more and you have to pair it with a source...no built in streamer....But yeah, it does look better and likely has better build quality. Every manufacturer tries hitting a price point with certain features. Would you say the Arcam has a more balanced, neutral sound? How is the midrange? I'm just not sold (yet) on Class D amps. I know they ought to get better as the technology keeps improving, but good old class AB is hard to beat.
@@rosswarren436 It's the best sounding amp I've ever had, it's warmer side of neutral, but cooler than Cambridge. It's very detailed without fatigue.
@@thomasward00 good to know. An audiophile friend here at work loves his Arcam stuff...has a SACD player from them too I think...I borrowed it from him for a while. Built like a tank...
Randy, love you man. But what the heck does this have to do with Hegel??? The Clickbait is strong in this one Obi wan. Stop yourself
I don't think I've heard anyone ever describe an integrated amp as warm and lush. They're always clean and cold and sterile..no matter the price range. Where are the warm and lush integrateds?
I'm desperately looking for those Sith products...
... you must use the force, Tom, and search within.
Then go print some sith audio stickers and put em on your gear :)