NAD C3030S vs NAD C 388 Detailed Comparison

NAD C3030S vs NAD C 388

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NAD C3030S

Integrated Amplifier | 50 watts RMS into 8-ohms

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NAD C 388

Integrated Amplifier | 150 watts RMS into 8-ohms

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NAD C3030S

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NAD C 388

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NAD C3030S

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NAD C 388

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NAD C3030S vs NAD C 388 Integrated Amplifier Comparison

In this review, we will be comparing two different type of speakers by NAD. NAD C3030S is a Streaming Integrated Amplifier speaker whereas the C 388 is a Integrated Amplifier with built-in DAC speaker.

Let's have a brief look at the main features of NAD C3030S and NAD C 388 first before getting into our more detailed comparison.

NAD C3030S 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 388 Key Specs

150 watts RMS into 8-ohms

Built-in DAC

Phono Input

USB Input

Bluetooth v4.0

Weight: 24.70 lbs / 11.23 kg

Dimensions (H x W x D):4-3/4inch x 17-1/8inch x 16-5/8inch

In the following sections, we will get into more detail in order to understand how NAD C3030S and NAD C 388 compares and end up with enough arguments to decide which one of these amplifiers is the better choice for you.

**This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Reasons to choose NAD C3030S over NAD C 388

Bluetooth Version	v5.0 vs v4.0	Higher transfer rate and range
Wi-Fi	Yes vs No	High quality streaming over WiFi
Coaxial Digital Inputs	No vs 2	More options for connecting Digital sources
Apple AirPlay	Yes vs No	Compatible with Apple Devices with AirPlay
Apple AirPlay 2	Yes vs No	Compatible with Apple Devices with AirPlay 2
Roon	Ready vs No	Roon Compatibility
BluOS	Yes vs No	Compatible with BluOS Wireless Ecosystem
Base Surface Area	1207.7cm²/ 187.2inch² vs 1840.1cm²/ 285.2inch²	takes less space in your room

Reasons to choose NAD C 388 over NAD C3030S

Handheld Remote	Yes vs No	Control the amplifier by the included RC
Watts into 8-ohms	150 watts vs 50 watts	Delivers higher power into 8-ohms speakers
Watts into 4-ohms	150 watts vs 50 watts	Delivers higher power into 4-ohms speakers
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)	0.009% 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 vs No	Connect a powered subwoofer or second amplifier.
Height	121mm 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 C3030S and NAD C 388 differs from each other.

NAD C3030S Inputs

Phono Input
1 Optical Digital Input
USB Input:

NAD C 388 Inputs

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

Outputs

1/4 Headphone Output

Outputs

Stereo RCA Preamp Outputs
1/4 Headphone Output

NAD C 388 Back View (Click the image for the larger version)

What's in the Box of NAD C 388?

Here are the items that come with the C 388:

Hybrid Digital DAC Amplifier

6-feet AC power cord

Bluetooth antenna

Remote control (SR 9)

2 AA batteries

Quick Setup Guide

Warranty Information