With the NAD C 3030, the British manufacturer continues the revival of its Classic range with an integrated amplifier that shares the aesthetics and sound philosophy of the highly acclaimed C 3050, in a more compact and accessible version. With HybridDigital amplification, HDMI eARC and phono inputs, a Bluetooth receiver and vintage charm, it promises to tick all the boxes.
Neo-retro design true to NAD’s heritage
From the very first glance, the NAD C 3030 clearly stands out as part of the Classic series. The charming styling of the NAD C3050 Standard Edition, itself inspired by the legendary NAD 3030 of the 1970s, is repeated. The sleek black front panel is animated by two analog VU meters that hark back to the brand’s heyday, while the NAD logo in cursive script reinforces the nod to historic models. Metal knobs and push-button controls perpetuate the gestures of the past, while the remote control provides welcome modern convenience. The proportions remain compact and balanced, at 35cm wide and 12cm high, allowing for natural integration into both hi-fi furniture and contemporary living rooms.
The little brother of the C 3050
If the NAD C3050 Standard Edition quickly established itself as a modern reference in the brand’s catalog, the new NAD C 3030 takes up its fundamentals and adapts them to a more compact approach. The design philosophy is the same, with HybridDigital amplification combining the efficiency and stability of a digital power stage with the musicality and naturalness of analog pre-amplification. The amplifier delivers 2 x 50 watts RMS into 4 and 8 ohms, a more modest output than its big brother, but one that can calmly power a wide range of sensitive floorstanding speakers, thanks to the excellent efficiency and stability of HybridDigital technology, as well as a high current capacity.
Modern connectivity
Although inspired by the past, the NAD C 3030 is clearly rooted in the present. It incorporates an HDMI eARC input, enabling it to be connected directly to a TV and therefore replace a soundbar. This feature transforms the amplifier into the audio heart of a stereo system designed for both music and cinema, with sound reproduction far superior to that of TV drivers. There’s also a line-level RCA input, as well as an optical and phono input for connecting a turntable. Bluetooth also facilitates wireless listening from a smartphone, tablet or computer. There’s also a dedicated output for connecting a subwoofer, and a headphone output on the front panel.
With the C 3030, NAD confirms its ability to create a dialogue between past and present. Now available to pre-order at €999 on Son-Vidéo.com, it is more affordable than the C 3050, while retaining the essence of its spirit and musicality.
