NAD C3030 vs NAD C 389 Detailed Comparison

NAD C3030 vs NAD C 389

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NAD C3030

Integrated Amplifier | 50 watts RMS into 8-ohms

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NAD C 389

Integrated Amplifier | 130 watts RMS into 8-ohms

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NAD C3030

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NAD C 389

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NAD C3030

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NAD C 389

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NAD C3030 vs NAD C 389 Integrated Amplifier Comparison

In this review, we will be comparing C3030 and C 389, two Integrated Amplifiers by NAD. Let's have a brief look at the main features of NAD C3030 and NAD C 389 first before getting into our more detailed comparison.

NAD C3030 Key Specs

50 watts RMS into 8-ohms

Built-in DAC

Phono Input

USB Input

Bluetooth v5.0

Weight: 12.80 lbs / 5.81 kg

Dimensions (H x W x D):5-1/8 x 14-1/16 x 13-5/16 inch

NAD C 389 Key Specs

130 watts RMS into 8-ohms

Built-in DAC

Phono Input

USB Input

HDMI Input (eARC)

Bluetooth

Weight: 19.10 lbs / 8.70 kg

Dimensions (H x W x D):3-15/16 x 7-1/8 x 15-7/16 inch

In the following sections, we will get into more detail in order to understand how NAD C3030 and NAD C 389 compares and end up with enough arguments to decide which one of these amplifiers is the better choice for you.

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Reasons to choose NAD C3030 over NAD C 389

Wi-Fi	Yes vs No	High quality streaming over WiFi
Coaxial Digital Inputs	No vs 2	More options for connecting Digital sources
Base Surface Area	1207.7cm²/ 187.2inch² vs 1705.0cm²/ 264.3inch²	takes less space in your room

Reasons to choose NAD C 389 over NAD C3030

Handheld Remote	Yes vs No	Control the amplifier by the included RC
Watts into 8-ohms	130 watts vs 50 watts	Delivers higher power into 8-ohms speakers
Watts into 4-ohms	130 watts vs 50 watts	Delivers higher power into 4-ohms speakers
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)	0.02% vs 0.03%	Less Harmonic Distortion
Signal to Noise Ratio	95 dB vs 90 dB	Higher ratings results in cleaner sound
Optical Digital Inputs	2 vs 1	More options for connecting Digital sources
Coaxial Digital Inputs	2 vs No	More options for connecting Digital sources
Preamp Outputs	Stereo RCA, Sub vs No	Connect a powered subwoofer or second amplifier.
Height	100mm vs 130mm	Easier to fit in smaller spaces

Inputs and Outputs

The input and output selections that are offered is an important factor when comparing two amplifiers. Here you can find how the I/O selections of the NAD C3030 and NAD C 389 differs from each other.

NAD C3030 Inputs

Phono Input
1 Optical Digital Input
USB Input:

NAD C 389 Inputs

Total Number of Analog Inputs: 3
Phono Input
2 Optical Digital Input
2 Coaxial Digital Input
USB Input:
- USB-A(Service Only)
HDMI eARC

Outputs

1/4 Headphone Output

Outputs

Stereo RCA, Sub Preamp Outputs
1/4 Headphone Output
Subwoofer Output

NAD C 389 Back View (Click the image for the larger version)