NAD C326BEE vs. NAD C356BEE DAC

[N.Cotman]

Hi all!

I have the opportunity to purchase a C356 (with the DAC Module) for $600, or a C326 for $500. I do not mind spending an extra bit of money for a better amplifier, however, I have heard that the 326 has a more "musical" sound to it.

I use my laptop quite a bit, so the DAC is appealing, but in the end I want the best sounding amp. I also like having a bit more headroom with the extra 30 WPC the C356 offers.

Any thoughts or experiences with either amp appreciated!

 

[PENG]

Hi all!

I have heard that the 326 has a more "musical" sound to it.

I wouldn't believe in any of those subjective reviews.

I use my laptop quite a bit, so the DAC is appealing, but in the end I want the best sounding amp. I also like having a bit more headroom with the extra 30 WPC the C356 offers.

Any thoughts or experiences with either amp appreciated!

Agree, using a laptop with a DAC is a good idea. The Burr Brown DAC 1796 is a good one but I don't know why NAD limits it to 96 kHz, not that it matters but I am just curious. I have no experience with those two but just by comparing the specs I would take the more powerful one, 60% more power, 4 lbs heavier, a above average DAC for only $100 more = easy decision.

Amps can sound different, but claims about one (between those two NADs) being more "musical" are most likely nonsense..guarantee they could not tell the sound apart when driven well below their output limits.