NAD C 268 Stereo Power Amplifier
$1,299.00
Product Details
The NAD C 268 is a Class D stereo power amplifier delivering 80 watts continuous per channel into 8 and 4 ohms, with dynamic peak capability exceeding 500 watts instantaneously. Built around the Hypex UcD output stage and NAD's asymmetrical PowerDrive technology, the C 268 belongs to NAD's Classic Series and supports stereo, bi-amp, and bridged mono configurations. It accepts balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs, operates on universal AC mains voltage from 100V to 240V, and includes an auto-sense feature for integration into automated systems.
Flexibility and Connectivity
The NAD C 268 accepts selectable balanced XLR and single-ended RCA inputs, each with a trim control for level matching between components or for bi-amp configurations. A line output allows additional power amplifiers to be added on the same channel for extra speakers or subwoofers. A bridge switch converts the C 268 into a single-channel monoblock delivering 300 watts continuous into 8 ohms. When bridged alongside the NAD C 368 Hybrid Digital DAC Amplifier, 300 watts per channel in stereo becomes available. An auto-sense feature with selectable threshold enables the C 268 to power on and off automatically in complex systems or when installed in enclosed cabinets.
Class D Power with Hypex UcD
The C 268 uses a customized version of the proven Hypex UcD output stage driven by a switch mode power supply capable of 200 watts continuously and over 500 watts instantaneously. NAD's asymmetrical PowerDrive technology dynamically manages the power supply to accurately reproduce demanding musical transients without distortion or compression. THD measures below 0.03% from 20Hz to 20kHz, damping factor exceeds 100 into 8 ohms, and frequency response is within 0.3dB across the full audio bandwidth. Standby power draw is under 0.5 watts. The NAD C 268 is an authorized NAD Classic Series product available at Vinyl Sound in Buffalo, NY.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Continuous Power (stereo, 8 and 4Ω) | 80W (20Hz–20kHz at rated THD, both channels) |
| IHF Dynamic Power (1kHz, 1% THD) | 120W (8Ω); 200W (4Ω); 250W (2Ω) |
| Continuous Power (bridge, 8Ω) | 300W (20Hz–20kHz, THD 0.03%) |
| THD | <0.03% (250mW to 80W, 8Ω and 4Ω) |
| Damping Factor | >100 (ref. 8Ω, 20Hz–20kHz) |
| Frequency Response | ±0.3dB (20Hz–20kHz) |
| Input Sensitivity | 750mV / 50kΩ (for 80W into 8Ω) |
| Standby Power | <0.5W |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 435 × 100 × 390 mm |
| Weight | 7.3 kg (16.1 lbs) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NAD C 268?
The NAD C 268 is a Class D stereo power amplifier from NAD's Classic Series. It delivers 80 watts continuous per channel into 8 and 4 ohms in stereo mode, or 300 watts continuous into 8 ohms in bridged mono mode, using the Hypex UcD output stage and NAD's asymmetrical PowerDrive technology. It accepts balanced XLR and single-ended RCA inputs and supports universal AC voltage from 100V to 240V.
What is the difference between stereo mode and bridge mode on the NAD C 268?
In stereo mode, the C 268 delivers 80 watts per channel into 8 and 4 ohms with both channels active. In bridge mode, both amplifier channels combine into a single monoblock output delivering 300 watts continuous into 8 ohms. Bridge mode is activated with the rear-panel bridge switch and is suited to driving demanding speakers or subwoofers with high continuous power requirements.
What is the Hypex UcD output stage?
Hypex UcD is a Class D amplifier module developed by Hypex Electronics in the Netherlands, known for very low distortion and high efficiency. The NAD C 268 uses a customized version of the UcD design paired with NAD's switch mode power supply, achieving THD below 0.03% across the full audio bandwidth and a damping factor exceeding 100 into 8 ohms. Unlike early Class D designs, the Hypex UcD maintains consistent performance into 8, 4, and 2 ohm speaker loads.
Can the NAD C 268 be used for bi-amping?
Yes. The C 268's balanced inputs each include a trim control for level matching, which is especially useful when bi-amping speakers alongside a second power amplifier. The line output also allows additional power to be added on the same channel for subwoofers or extra speakers. See the full amplifier collection at Vinyl Sound Buffalo for compatible power amplifiers.
What is NAD PowerDrive technology?
NAD's asymmetrical PowerDrive technology dynamically manages the switch mode power supply to track musical program levels, delivering up to 500 watts instantaneously during transient peaks while minimizing power draw during quiet passages. This allows the C 268 to accurately reproduce demanding musical transients without dynamic compression or audible distortion.
What preamplifier pairs well with the NAD C 268?
The NAD C 268 accepts balanced XLR inputs with 50kΩ input impedance, making it compatible with virtually any line-level preamplifier or DAC with balanced outputs. It pairs naturally with the NAD C 368 Hybrid Digital DAC Amplifier in bridged mono for 300 watts per channel. For vinyl source components, see our phono preamplifier collection for compatible phono stages.
Where can I buy the NAD C 268 in Buffalo, NY?
Vinyl Sound in Buffalo, NY is an authorized NAD dealer serving customers across Western New York and the United States. Contact us for current availability and system configuration guidance for the NAD C 268 and the full NAD Classic Series.
Vinyl Sound — Buffalo's Hi-Fi Store. Authorized NAD dealer. Expert guidance on power amplifiers, preamplifiers, and complete two-channel listening systems.
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