NAD Electronics has expanded its Classic Series with the introduction of the C 359S Integrated Amplifier and C 569 CD Player, combining traditional Hi-Fi design with modern digital audio technologies.
The two new products reflect NAD Electronics’ continued commitment to delivering high-performance audio components that balance sound quality, ease of use and value, while catering for music enthusiasts who want to combine traditional physical media with modern streaming capabilities.
C 359S: Re-Engineered Class AB Amplification
The C 359S Integrated Amplifier features a re-engineered Class AB design, delivering 2 x 70W of continuous power into 8 ohms. Rather than employing the large transformer and linear power supply traditionally associated with Class AB amplification, NAD has adopted a high-current, low-noise switch-mode power supply derived from its flagship Class D amplifier platform.
A modern multi-layer circuit architecture separates power conversion, signal processing and amplification, with carefully controlled grounding and signal routing designed to minimise interference between the amplifier’s analogue, digital and network functions.
The result, according to NAD, is a responsive, low-noise amplifier capable of driving demanding loudspeakers while retaining the musical characteristics associated with Class AB amplification.
Despite its modern internal architecture, the C 359S maintains a traditional approach to operation, with physical buttons, rotary controls and an included IR remote rather than relying on extensive display menus.
Built-in BluOS provides high-resolution streaming, internet radio, access to network music libraries and multi-room audio without requiring a separate streamer. HDMI eARC allows the amplifier to handle television audio, while aptX HD Bluetooth provides wireless listening capabilities.
Additional connectivity includes a phono input for turntables, analogue and optical inputs, a dedicated headphone output and subwoofer integration.
The latter includes optional high-pass filtering, allowing deep bass frequencies to be redirected to a connected subwoofer. This reduces the demands placed on the main loudspeakers and amplifier, potentially improving clarity, imaging and available headroom in a 2.1-channel system.
Morten Nielsen, Product Manager at NAD, says, “Audio enthusiasts today want a hi-fi system that is simple to live with but makes no compromises on sound quality. The C 359S and C 569 are built for that listener. They look and feel like the NAD components people have trusted for decades, but under the hood they are entirely modern. You press play, and the engineering gets out of the way of the music.”
C 569: Bringing New Technology to CD Playback
Joining the C 359S is the C 569 CD Player, positioned between NAD’s entry-level C 538 and flagship C 589.
Designed for listeners with existing CD collections, the C 569 incorporates two of NAD’s digital audio technologies, Dynamic Digital Headroom (DDH) and QRONO d2a.
DDH is designed to eliminate inter-sample clipping, a form of digital distortion that can occur during signal reconstruction, helping to preserve the impact and clarity of musical transients.
QRONO d2a focuses on improving timing and resolution during digital-to-analogue conversion, with support for both PCM and MQA-encoded music.
These technologies are supported by an ESS SABRE DAC, improved operational amplifiers and a refined power supply, with the overall design intended to reduce noise and preserve low-level musical detail.
A high-quality disc transport provides reliable playback, while analogue and digital outputs allow the C 569 to operate either as a complete CD source or as a transport connected to an external DAC.
The player also features front-panel controls, a clear display and a supplied remote, maintaining the straightforward operation associated with NAD’s Classic Series.
Its compact, understated styling is designed to complement the C 359S, creating a matching amplifier and CD player combination.
Physical Media Meets Modern Connectivity
The arrival of a new dedicated CD player is also a reminder that physical media continues to have a place in the modern Hi-Fi market. Although streaming has transformed music consumption, many enthusiasts retain substantial CD collections and want to enjoy them through contemporary audio systems.
For specialist retailers and professional installers, the combination of the C 359S and C 569 offers an opportunity to provide a system that accommodates established listening habits while introducing the convenience of high-resolution streaming, multi-room audio and television integration.
The inclusion of HDMI eARC and dedicated subwoofer management in the amplifier also makes the combination relevant beyond traditional two-channel listening rooms, particularly for customers seeking improved television audio without moving to a full surround sound system.
The NAD C 359S Integrated Amplifier is available through authorised NAD dealers in the UK, priced at £1,099.
The NAD C 569 CD Player is scheduled to become available in late November, priced at £749.
