Product Previews

NAD C 658 BluOS Streaming DAC Preview

NAD Electronics continues to lead the charge in the digital high-resolution domain, recently developing two key components; the NAD Master Series M10 BluOS integrated DAC/amplifier and the C 658 Streaming DAC (sans amplifier).

For those unfamiliar with BluOS network streaming, (or perhaps you live under the preverbal audio rock), the proprietary, multi-room operating system developed under the Lenbrook brand, has been included in these new models.

Further, and perhaps just as exciting is the integration of DIRAC Live Room Correction software. In for review is the C 658 which comes with a license for DIRAC Live with an option to purchase an advanced, full frequency spectrum version.

The C 658 Streaming DAC can be used as a stand-alone preamplifier in your system with both digital and analog inputs, (including a MM phono input), or in your system as purely a DAC/streamer. And if that weren’t enough, NAD incorporated their MDC, Modular Design Construction, by providing empty hardware slots which allow for future hardware upgrades, like an HDMI 4k switcher.

NAD C 658 BluOS Streaming DAC Specifications

THD (20Hz-20kHz)
Frequency Response ±0.3dB (20Hz – 20kHz)
Tone Controls
DAC supports MP3, AAC, WMA, OGG, WMA-L, ALAC, OPUS
High-Resolution formats MQA, FLAC, WAV, AIFF, converted DSD via BluOS app
Native Sampling Rate up to 32bit/192kHz
BluOS Operating System
Bluetooth, Bluetooth AptX HD wireless
Internet Radio
Both Balanced and Single-Ended Preamp Outputs
Dual Single-Ended Subwoofer Outputs
Dimensions 17 1/8” wide X 3 15/16” high X 16” deep
Weight 22.3 lbs.
MSRP $1,499

Piero Gabucci

As a kid I wasn’t frugal with money, but so glad my brother was. He worked and saved to buy audio gear that I was able to enjoy. I was hooked on hifi. When I graduated from college, I rewarded myself with a pair of KEF speakers and a Denon Turntable and amplifier. They were my prized possessions. Today as an architect, my passion for music and film match my joy for architecture - art is art. Involved with Secrets for many years now, I’m able to enjoy some great gear and I do love it all, analog (vinyl and tubes) and digital (high-res and solid state). My approach to reviewing is with an openness and unbiased enthusiasm as I do think the art of high fidelity is subjective. Whether you believe the goal of hifi equipment is to capture the quality of a live performance or to faithfully reproduce the artist’s studio recording isn’t relevant, it’s the pure enjoyment at all levels that matter.