Have a Technics 1200 and 1210 in a DJ set-up but wanted a reasonably priced turntable for main listening system. Did loads of online research and considered a few, but this review is what sealed the deal for me. And I couldn't be more pleased - thank you, Paul! Been watching your videos for a year or more and I think they are among the best audio reviews online. Keep up the great work! My NAD C558 is matched up with a NAD C326, Tekton Mini-Lore mid-towers, Hsu Research VTF-1, Rotel RCD-1072, and Sony TC-KE500S cassette deck.
Thanks for the review, mate. I’ve actually just bought a C558 from the aforementioned Sevenoaks shop, only mine was £399...well, a total of £499 when the Pro-Ject IT 1 turntable shelf was factored in (small discount!). Anyway, thanks again. I may take your advice and upgrade it at some point, although I’m just excited to be getting such a brilliant bit of kit at the moment!
Interesting, was wondering what was your deciding factor to go with the Nad, are you matching it with a Nad amp? I’m also looking at this turntable so interested in your opinion, how would you describe it’s over all sound? Curious! 👍
@@TheFonkzilla Hi, the shop was actually trying to steer me in the direction of the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC Turntable, but yes, I have a NAD amp, cd player and DAB tuner, so I thought - keep it in the family. Plus, this is such a beautiful object in itself, so paying the £100 extra (the Pro-Ject was £299 - now I believe it's £279) didn't hurt too much. To be honest, I haven't assembled it yet, as I'm waiting for the turntable shelf to arrive.
@@Akstergrind Thanks for getting back to me, yes I take your point it is nice when it’s an all matching system Still would be very interested to hear your thoughts on it when it’s all hooked up. 👍
5:49 I read about some complaints about the vibrations caused by the motor of the regular Project Debut. As opposed to the motor of the Carbon Debut EVO. Would you say the motor in this NAD is constructed and mounted on the plinth in a way comparable to the EVO or to the “regular” Debut?
I'd say that NAD has been shrewd in its choice of components. The parts are Pro-Ject but the turntable itself is unique. I had no issues with vibration - at least nothing to impinge on the sound quality for a design in this price point, put it that way.
I'm a happy owner of this turntable, having bought it in march 2019 for 430 $ after reading a raving review in our russian hi-fi magazine. it was said in the article they had never heard such sound in that of a price range before, the sound was double or even triple as good compared to the price, coming from professionals with decades of listening experience. so I bought it without hesitation. that's my first turntable and I can't compare it to anything else but I'm extremely content with the sound, it drags me in and surrounds with a wide soundstage. I wonder what it would sound like if I were to change the cartridge, like AT 33 PTG II. and I've got the cheapest phono preamp possible so there is also upgrade potential there. I would really appreciate the author of the video or somebody else who owns the turntable to make a tutorial video on how to change the head with all those vertical tracking angle setting, azimuth setting etc...
Hi Paul this was a great review of this turntable as ive thought about buying one so thanks for the great advice on the cartridge change, I have now subscribed to your videos. 👍
(U.S. - ) ordered today from Crutchfield. Expected in 3 or 4 days from their Virginia shipping address. How would you rate a Sumiko Moonstone cartridge upgrade. It will be connected to vintage NAD 3400 integrated amp. In NYC if shops were open I would have more choices.
Hi Steven - I haven't reviewed this one but, having reviewing a budget MM and a high end MC (have you seen those vids?) and heard that signature sonic style, I wouldn't be surprised that the Moonstone keeps the flavour going. A more cultured Rainier perhaps?
@@TheAudiophileMan This is going forward, into the past for me. Minimal hi fi (a wall of CDs ) let alone LP use for almost 2 decades as I've been focused on PC learning and uses from mid 1990s thru lots of DSLR photog since 2005. Vinyl. is mostly classic rock, dance-disco and theatre. Thanks so much. As I am not going all in due to modest mid end system in small NY apartment, you understand what I am aiming as well as I can figure out.
I just snagged a C558 online for 290 (US) dollars. I was leaning towards the Pro-ject Evo turntable, but the price has gone up $100 dollars to $599 now. I also considered the Fluance Rt85 but I think it comes pretty maxed out - no upgrade path and it seems all 5 of Fluance's turntables share the same plinth and tonearm. So no Fluance. Just curious, how does the Evo compare to the Nad (since they're both Pro-ject turntables by DNA)? FYI - I am upgrading from a U-turn Orbit with the OM5e cartridge I have watched tons of your vids and like how you present your reviews. Keep up the good job!!
Thanks for your ind words Nic and I've no idea how they compare, to be honest because I no longer had the NAD on the premises when I received the EVO. I'd say - from memory - that the EVO has the edge on the 558 but the 588 is a better buy.
2 months ago i searched for a new turntable and compared the hyped RT85 with the C558. I came to a similar conclusion - the tonearm of the NAD seems to be way better, because with it's OM10 it sounded better than the Fluance with the 2M Blue. Now i only need a suitable cartridge with warm sound - my "old" MP110 seems to struggle a bit with the light tonearm. Maybe the Sumiko Olympia? Anyways, thanks for your review, you do a great job! As a side note i would certainly enjoy a listening comparison, but i understand it's difficult in multiple ways.
My problem is getting a RT85. I'm in the UK and it took all my time and lots of requests to get the 81 and 83! :) That said, I'll keep at it. You never know.
@@TheAudiophileMan I live in Germany and bought it from amazon.co.uk, but now the RT85 isn't in stock anymore. It would be interesting what you have to say about the RT85 since its tonearm is the same as the RT83's. I have the feeling the RT83 is a better package in terms of price/performance.
Good morning. Can you recommend a platter mat for the glass platter of the c558? Also what other carts do you recommend other than the E3? (for maybe a little bit more in price) Debating on the E3 or the Sumiko Olympia
@@TheAudiophileMan Thanks. I'm ordering the Origin Live platter mat and E3 cart today. I may post a follow up to let you know what I think of the sound
Origin live PM and Gold ring E3 have been installed. It sounds much better. Thanks for the suggestions. Is there anything you can recommend updating on the Nad c558 to squeeze a little more out of it? I'll get a better cart sometime next year.
@@TheAudiophileMan many thanks love your reviews even though I know nearl nothing about quality decks I find your descriptions relivent, easy to understand and very informative. I was leaning towards the 558 until I saw the debut carbon evo upgrade now leaning towards that, would you agree.
nice to see detachable phono cables My rega p3 deck has fixed cables that are nowhere long enough to allow for distancing from my amp Spot on review as always Regards Mike in The U.K.
Hi Paul - a friend of mine bought this tt with his Airmiles - I'm urging him to upgrade his cart to a Nagaoka MP 110 because of its warmth and forgiving nature. He's thinking of the Ortofon Blue for accuracy. Do you have any thoughts on these cartridges paired with the C558?
Hi Craig - yes, Nagaoka offer excellent sound, the Blue does offer a less soulful, possibly drier approach that many love. Also consider the Goldring E3 which I like a lot too.
I am not looking for another turntable but I enjoyed this video. I especially liked your comments regarding the Goldring cartridge which is something that I am interested in to replace the AT110E that came with a Systemdec IIX 900 that I recently purchased.
Just setup this turntable to replace my Audio Technica PL120 that I have had for the past 15 years. I guess I ought not to be but I was astounded at the improvement in sound quality. Matched it with a Denon DL-110 cartridge and it sounds amazing. I was torn between the Rega Planar 2 and the NAD but Rega prices in the US are a little high. I think the NAD should last me a long a time or at least until I am able to upgrade to something like the Planar 6. Thanks for the excellent review!👍
Fantastic review so proper British and professional 👍👍 Between the Rega Planar 3 and Nad C558. What would be your choice. ? And should I go with the Elys2 cartridge. My listening is mostly Jazz, classical. Appreciate your advice Thanks 🙏
@@TheAudiophileMan Based in Bombay Mumbai but I will be moving to Portugal where I set up my new listening room I decided on my speakers the Sibelius Could I ask you to recommend me a matching tube amp £1000 Or I may settle for the 6000A Would appreciate your answer. Thanks
@@grandmasterjo1 In terms of value for money - the NAD looks the better option. As for the amp. Firstly, have a read of my review of this amp: theaudiophileman.com/a10-valve-amplifier-pure-sound/ Then, if you're interested, give the company a ring and talk to the owner about your speakers to make sure that they would work well together in terms of power handling. Ask about a home demo.
Very interesting thanks. I'm a pro-ject owner of many years and when my daughter wanted her first turntable that was the direction we looked but instead we eventually settled on the AT LP5 (not the X) I was surprised by just how good it was, better cart than the cheaper pro-jects and better value than the more expensive ones. I'm personally not a fan of the ortofon red and no stores these days will work and trade with you to get a deal done, so the LP5 it was, she loves it 👍
Hi Paul. Thank you for the review. In Canada the C588 is $1100 list but is online for a Grand. The C558 is $680 list and can be had for less. The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon SB lists for $800 CDN which seems like a fair deal and pretty sure can be found for a bit less. The RPM3 is a Grand, which I checked out and wasn't thrilled by the fit n finish but that's a personal thing. Good times in analogue these days.
Blimey, calm down sunshine. A simple query would have been sufficient :) This channel is what, 4 years old now? As is this video. When I began I didn’t yet have a proper studio set up. Most UA-camrs start from simple beginnings. Cash is tight. All that. Over time I have been able to develop and expand my facilities. As you can see by my more recent productions. There. I hope that helps. Next time, keep it polite and I’ll be more than happy to help.
Have a Technics 1200 and 1210 in a DJ set-up but wanted a reasonably priced turntable for main listening system. Did loads of online research and considered a few, but this review is what sealed the deal for me. And I couldn't be more pleased - thank you, Paul! Been watching your videos for a year or more and I think they are among the best audio reviews online. Keep up the great work! My NAD C558 is matched up with a NAD C326, Tekton Mini-Lore mid-towers, Hsu Research VTF-1, Rotel RCD-1072, and Sony TC-KE500S cassette deck.
Thanks for the review, mate. I’ve actually just bought a C558 from the aforementioned Sevenoaks shop, only mine was £399...well, a total of £499 when the Pro-Ject IT 1 turntable shelf was factored in (small discount!). Anyway, thanks again. I may take your advice and upgrade it at some point, although I’m just excited to be getting such a brilliant bit of kit at the moment!
Interesting, was wondering what was your deciding factor to go with the Nad, are you matching it with a Nad amp? I’m also looking at this turntable so interested in your opinion, how would you describe it’s over all sound? Curious! 👍
@@TheFonkzilla Hi, the shop was actually trying to steer me in the direction of the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC Turntable, but yes, I have a NAD amp, cd player and DAB tuner, so I thought - keep it in the family. Plus, this is such a beautiful object in itself, so paying the £100 extra (the Pro-Ject was £299 - now I believe it's £279) didn't hurt too much. To be honest, I haven't assembled it yet, as I'm waiting for the turntable shelf to arrive.
@@Akstergrind Thanks for getting back to me, yes I take your point it is nice when it’s an all matching system Still would be very interested to hear your thoughts on it when it’s all hooked up. 👍
5:49 I read about some complaints about the vibrations caused by the motor of the regular Project Debut. As opposed to the motor of the Carbon Debut EVO. Would you say the motor in this NAD is constructed and mounted on the plinth in a way comparable to the EVO or to the “regular” Debut?
I'd say that NAD has been shrewd in its choice of components. The parts are Pro-Ject but the turntable itself is unique. I had no issues with vibration - at least nothing to impinge on the sound quality for a design in this price point, put it that way.
@@TheAudiophileMan thanks a lot for your reply! much appreciated.
I'm a happy owner of this turntable, having bought it in march 2019 for 430 $ after reading a raving review in our russian hi-fi magazine. it was said in the article they had never heard such sound in that of a price range before, the sound was double or even triple as good compared to the price, coming from professionals with decades of listening experience. so I bought it without hesitation. that's my first turntable and I can't compare it to anything else but I'm extremely content with the sound, it drags me in and surrounds with a wide soundstage. I wonder what it would sound like if I were to change the cartridge, like AT 33 PTG II. and I've got the cheapest phono preamp possible so there is also upgrade potential there. I would really appreciate the author of the video or somebody else who owns the turntable to make a tutorial video on how to change the head with all those vertical tracking angle setting, azimuth setting etc...
Hi Paul this was a great review of this turntable as ive thought about buying one so thanks for the great advice on the cartridge change, I have now subscribed to your videos. 👍
A very nice review. I enjoyed it. Thank you.
(U.S. - ) ordered today from Crutchfield. Expected in 3 or 4 days from their Virginia shipping address. How would you rate a Sumiko Moonstone cartridge upgrade. It will be connected to vintage NAD 3400 integrated amp. In NYC if shops were open I would have more choices.
Hi Steven - I haven't reviewed this one but, having reviewing a budget MM and a high end MC (have you seen those vids?) and heard that signature sonic style, I wouldn't be surprised that the Moonstone keeps the flavour going. A more cultured Rainier perhaps?
@@TheAudiophileMan This is going forward, into the past for me. Minimal hi fi (a wall of CDs ) let alone LP use for almost 2 decades as I've been focused on PC learning and uses from mid 1990s thru lots of DSLR photog since 2005. Vinyl. is mostly classic rock, dance-disco and theatre. Thanks so much. As I am not going all in due to modest mid end system in small NY apartment, you understand what I am aiming as well as I can figure out.
I just snagged a C558 online for 290 (US) dollars. I was leaning towards the Pro-ject Evo turntable, but the price has gone up $100 dollars to $599 now. I also considered the Fluance Rt85 but I think it comes pretty maxed out - no upgrade path and it seems all 5 of Fluance's turntables share the same plinth and tonearm. So no Fluance. Just curious, how does the Evo compare to the Nad (since they're both Pro-ject turntables by DNA)? FYI - I am upgrading from a U-turn Orbit with the OM5e cartridge I have watched tons of your vids and like how you present your reviews. Keep up the good job!!
Thanks for your ind words Nic and I've no idea how they compare, to be honest because I no longer had the NAD on the premises when I received the EVO. I'd say - from memory - that the EVO has the edge on the 558 but the 588 is a better buy.
2 months ago i searched for a new turntable and compared the hyped RT85 with the C558. I came to a similar conclusion - the tonearm of the NAD seems to be way better, because with it's OM10 it sounded better than the Fluance with the 2M Blue. Now i only need a suitable cartridge with warm sound - my "old" MP110 seems to struggle a bit with the light tonearm. Maybe the Sumiko Olympia?
Anyways, thanks for your review, you do a great job! As a side note i would certainly enjoy a listening comparison, but i understand it's difficult in multiple ways.
My problem is getting a RT85. I'm in the UK and it took all my time and lots of requests to get the 81 and 83! :) That said, I'll keep at it. You never know.
@@TheAudiophileMan I live in Germany and bought it from amazon.co.uk, but now the RT85 isn't in stock anymore. It would be interesting what you have to say about the RT85 since its tonearm is the same as the RT83's. I have the feeling the RT83 is a better package in terms of price/performance.
Hey guys! Is the Nagaoka MP-110 cartridge a sirect fit onto the Nad shell?
Good morning. Can you recommend a platter mat for the glass platter of the c558? Also what other carts do you recommend other than the E3? (for maybe a little bit more in price) Debating on the E3 or the Sumiko Olympia
The Origin Live mat is excellent, the E3 is also excellent for that price range. The Nagaoka MP-110 for a little bit more too.
@@TheAudiophileMan Thanks. I'm ordering the Origin Live platter mat and E3 cart today. I may post a follow up to let you know what I think of the sound
Origin live PM and Gold ring E3 have been installed. It sounds much better. Thanks for the suggestions. Is there anything you can recommend updating on the Nad c558 to squeeze a little more out of it? I'll get a better cart sometime next year.
@@ricdavis7974 Was it a direct fit or did you need to get new bolts?
Is there a silver color model turntable for those I can’t find it online?? Even not same exact model
Not that I'm aware of.
Can you do a comparison between the NAD C558 & Project Debut Carbon please.
This is the £299 Carbon, yes? I'd lean towards the NAD.
@@TheAudiophileMan many thanks love your reviews even though I know nearl nothing about quality decks I find your descriptions relivent, easy to understand and very informative.
I was leaning towards the 558 until I saw the debut carbon evo upgrade now leaning towards that, would you agree.
Many thanks and yes, the EVO would be my choice.
nice to see detachable phono cables My rega p3 deck has fixed cables that are nowhere long enough to allow for distancing from my amp Spot on review as always Regards Mike in The U.K.
Thanks Mike!
Hi Paul - a friend of mine bought this tt with his Airmiles - I'm urging him to upgrade his cart to a Nagaoka MP 110 because of its warmth and forgiving nature. He's thinking of the Ortofon Blue for accuracy. Do you have any thoughts on these cartridges paired with the C558?
Hi Craig - yes, Nagaoka offer excellent sound, the Blue does offer a less soulful, possibly drier approach that many love. Also consider the Goldring E3 which I like a lot too.
@@TheAudiophileMan - Thanks for this Mike - my friend is now giving serious thought to the E3 after seeing your review.
I am not looking for another turntable but I enjoyed this video. I especially liked your comments regarding the Goldring cartridge which is something that I am interested in to replace the AT110E that came with a Systemdec IIX 900 that I recently purchased.
I bought this one combined with NAD C368 :)
It's been a long time since you reviewed a DAC. Would be nice to see you making a video about the new chinese DACs: SMSL, Topping or Gustard :)
Fair question. I am getting a Topping DAC. Be 2-3 weeks but watch out for that one.
I am loving your channel and personality, honey. You just won me over. Just subbed.
Keep it coming.
Thank you!
Just setup this turntable to replace my Audio Technica PL120 that I have had for the past 15 years. I guess I ought not to be but I was astounded at the improvement in sound quality. Matched it with a Denon DL-110 cartridge and it sounds amazing. I was torn between the Rega Planar 2 and the NAD but Rega prices in the US are a little high. I think the NAD should last me a long a time or at least until I am able to upgrade to something like the Planar 6. Thanks for the excellent review!👍
I have the c588 try it on to top receivers an denon and onkyo it sounds bad like the needle off bad sound
Fantastic review so proper British and professional 👍👍
Between the Rega Planar 3 and Nad C558.
What would be your choice. ?
And should I go with the Elys2 cartridge.
My listening is mostly Jazz, classical.
Appreciate your advice
Thanks 🙏
Many thanks, Jo. Blimey, that's a tough one - can I ask where you're based first?
@@TheAudiophileMan Based in Bombay Mumbai but I will be moving to Portugal where I set up my new listening room
I decided on my speakers the Sibelius
Could I ask you to recommend me a matching tube amp £1000
Or I may settle for the 6000A
Would appreciate your answer.
Thanks
@@grandmasterjo1 In terms of value for money - the NAD looks the better option. As for the amp. Firstly, have a read of my review of this amp: theaudiophileman.com/a10-valve-amplifier-pure-sound/ Then, if you're interested, give the company a ring and talk to the owner about your speakers to make sure that they would work well together in terms of power handling. Ask about a home demo.
Very interesting thanks. I'm a pro-ject owner of many years and when my daughter wanted her first turntable that was the direction we looked but instead we eventually settled on the AT LP5 (not the X) I was surprised by just how good it was, better cart than the cheaper pro-jects and better value than the more expensive ones. I'm personally not a fan of the ortofon red and no stores these days will work and trade with you to get a deal done, so the LP5 it was, she loves it 👍
Good choice - I was surprised at the performance of the LP5x when I tested it, I have to admit.
Thanks very helpful.
Thanks for sharing. Very interesting. Must dust down my thorens t t. Best regards from Adrian in Sheffield South Yorkshire 🤗😺
Hi Paul. Thank you for the review. In Canada the C588 is $1100 list but is online for a Grand. The C558 is $680 list and can be had for less. The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon SB lists for $800 CDN which seems like a fair deal and pretty sure can be found for a bit less. The RPM3 is a Grand, which I checked out and wasn't thrilled by the fit n finish but that's a personal thing. Good times in analogue these days.
Great! Would you ever consider a comparison of a top of the line vintage table (Dual 701- or Dual CS5000) with a NAD 558 or 588?
Vintage gear is lovely and I use it myself but I'd lean towards NAD in this case.
Why is the sound on the c588 cracking up it an nice looking turntable
What the hell are your reviews are just photos. Do you have any of the equipment at all let alone touched them.
Blimey, calm down sunshine. A simple query would have been sufficient :) This channel is what, 4 years old now? As is this video. When I began I didn’t yet have a proper studio set up. Most UA-camrs start from simple beginnings. Cash is tight. All that. Over time I have been able to develop and expand my facilities. As you can see by my more recent productions. There. I hope that helps. Next time, keep it polite and I’ll be more than happy to help.
audiophile doesn’t care about music. just cares about the hifi album they bought to play on the hifi “deck”
at 299 sounds like a loss leader.