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NAD C298 - User Manual

NAD C298
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Owners Manual
ENGLISH
Stereo Power Amplier
®
C 298
© NAD C 298
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Summary

Product Overview

Important Safety Instructions

General Operating Safety

Covers safety rules for operating, cleaning, and connecting the product, including warnings about water, ventilation, and power.

Service and Warning Symbols

Details on when to seek service, proper replacement parts, safety checks, and explanation of warning symbols.

Placement and Environmental Notes

Guidance on product placement, ventilation, and disposal of batteries.

Manufacturer Contact and Environmental Disposal

Responsible Party Information

Contact details for the responsible party and advice to consult an electrician if in doubt.

Environmental Protection Guidelines

Instructions for proper disposal of electronic equipment and waste batteries according to EU directives.

Getting Started and Setup

Quick Start Guide

Basic instructions for setting up the NAD C 298, including connection and power-on procedures.

Installation and Handling

Advice on packaging, placement, ventilation, cleaning, and safe handling of the unit.

Front Panel Controls

Standby Button and Power Indicator

Operation of the standby button and the function of the power indicator light.

Auto Standby Mode

How to enable or disable the automatic standby mode based on input signal.

Bridge Mode Indicator

Indicates when the amplifier is operating in Bridge Mode (MONO).

Rear Panel Controls and Connections

Audio Input Connections

Details on connecting BALANCED and SINGLE-ENDED audio sources.

Grounding and Line Outputs

Instructions for grounding the unit and using LINE OUT for daisy-chaining.

Input Level and Select Switches

Explanation of INPUT SELECT (FIX/VAR) and INPUT LEVEL controls.

Auto Sense Level Settings

Configuration of Auto Sense levels for automatic standby activation.

Rear Panel Features and Power

+12 V Trigger In;Out

Functionality and connection of the 12V trigger ports for remote control.

Bridge Mode Operation

How to configure the amplifier for MONO (Bridge Mode) and speaker connections.

Speaker Terminals

Correct procedure for connecting speakers to the Left and Right terminals.

Power Supply and Fuse Holder

Information on the AC mains power input, power switch, and fuse holder.

Specifications

Audio Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for audio inputs, outputs, and power ratings.

Dimensions and Weight

Physical dimensions and weight details of the amplifier.

Summary

Product Overview

Important Safety Instructions

General Operating Safety

Covers safety rules for operating, cleaning, and connecting the product, including warnings about water, ventilation, and power.

Service and Warning Symbols

Details on when to seek service, proper replacement parts, safety checks, and explanation of warning symbols.

Placement and Environmental Notes

Guidance on product placement, ventilation, and disposal of batteries.

Manufacturer Contact and Environmental Disposal

Responsible Party Information

Contact details for the responsible party and advice to consult an electrician if in doubt.

Environmental Protection Guidelines

Instructions for proper disposal of electronic equipment and waste batteries according to EU directives.

Getting Started and Setup

Quick Start Guide

Basic instructions for setting up the NAD C 298, including connection and power-on procedures.

Installation and Handling

Advice on packaging, placement, ventilation, cleaning, and safe handling of the unit.

Front Panel Controls

Standby Button and Power Indicator

Operation of the standby button and the function of the power indicator light.

Auto Standby Mode

How to enable or disable the automatic standby mode based on input signal.

Bridge Mode Indicator

Indicates when the amplifier is operating in Bridge Mode (MONO).

Rear Panel Controls and Connections

Audio Input Connections

Details on connecting BALANCED and SINGLE-ENDED audio sources.

Grounding and Line Outputs

Instructions for grounding the unit and using LINE OUT for daisy-chaining.

Input Level and Select Switches

Explanation of INPUT SELECT (FIX/VAR) and INPUT LEVEL controls.

Auto Sense Level Settings

Configuration of Auto Sense levels for automatic standby activation.

Rear Panel Features and Power

+12 V Trigger In;Out

Functionality and connection of the 12V trigger ports for remote control.

Bridge Mode Operation

How to configure the amplifier for MONO (Bridge Mode) and speaker connections.

Speaker Terminals

Correct procedure for connecting speakers to the Left and Right terminals.

Power Supply and Fuse Holder

Information on the AC mains power input, power switch, and fuse holder.

Specifications

Audio Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for audio inputs, outputs, and power ratings.

Dimensions and Weight

Physical dimensions and weight details of the amplifier.

Overview

The NAD C 298 is a stereo power amplifier designed to deliver high-quality audio performance. It functions primarily as a power amplifier, taking a line-level audio signal and amplifying it to drive loudspeakers. The device is capable of operating in both stereo and bridged (mono) modes, offering flexibility for various audio setups and power requirements.

Function Description

The core function of the C 298 is to amplify audio signals. It accepts both balanced (XLR) and single-ended (RCA) analog audio inputs, allowing connection to a wide range of preamplifiers, processors, or other compatible audio sources. In stereo mode, it provides two channels of amplification, suitable for driving a pair of loudspeakers. When configured for bridged (mono) mode, the amplifier combines its two channels to deliver a single, more powerful output, ideal for driving a single, demanding loudspeaker or for use in a multi-amplifier system where higher power is needed per channel.

The amplifier features a +12V Trigger IN/OUT system, enabling it to be remotely controlled by other compatible devices. The +12V Trigger OUT can send a 12V signal to turn on other equipment, while the +12V Trigger IN allows the C 298 to be switched on from standby mode by an external 12V DC supply. This integration simplifies system control, allowing for synchronized power-up and shutdown of connected components.

An Auto Sense feature is incorporated, which allows the C 298 to automatically switch from standby to operating mode when it detects an active input signal above a specified level. This provides convenience, as the amplifier can power on automatically when the source device starts playing audio. The Auto Sense level can be adjusted to Low, Mid, or High settings, catering to different source output levels and user preferences.

The C 298 also includes a LINE OUT feature, which allows for "daisy-chaining" multiple amplifiers. This is particularly useful in systems requiring more than one amplifier to drive additional speakers for the same channel, or for distributing the audio signal to other compatible devices like receivers.

Usage Features

The NAD C 298 is designed for straightforward operation. On the front panel, a Standby button allows users to switch the amplifier ON from standby mode or return it to standby. An associated Power indicator changes color (amber for standby, blue for ON) to clearly show the device's status. A Bridge Mode indicator illuminates blue when the amplifier is set to bridged (mono) operation, providing a visual cue for the current configuration.

On the rear panel, several controls facilitate setup and customization:

  • SELECT Switch: This switch allows users to choose between the BALANCED (XLR) and SINGLE-ENDED (RCA) inputs as the active audio source. Both left and right channels must be set to the same input type.
  • INPUT SELECT Switch: This switch determines how the audio output level is managed. In "FIX" mode, the output level is fixed, and an external device (like a preamplifier) controls the volume. In "VAR" (variable) mode, the INPUT LEVEL control knob on the rear panel can be used to adjust the audio output level, effectively allowing the C 298 to act as a basic integrated amplifier if desired.
  • INPUT LEVEL Control Knob: Active when the INPUT SELECT switch is set to "VAR," this knob allows for fine-tuning the audio output level. Turning it clockwise increases the level, while counter-clockwise lowers it. It functions as a level trim, not a full volume control.
  • AUTO SENSE LEVEL Switch: This switch allows selection of three different input signal levels (Low, Mid, High) that will trigger the amplifier to exit standby mode. This feature enhances convenience by automatically powering on the amplifier when an audio signal is detected.
  • BRIDGE MODE Switch: This crucial switch toggles between stereo and bridged (mono) operation. When set to "ON (MONO)," the amplifier's output power is significantly increased, but it should only be used with appropriate loudspeakers (typically 8 ohms or higher) to avoid thermal cut-out at high levels. When set to "OFF (Stereo)," the amplifier operates in its standard two-channel stereo configuration.

Speaker connections are made via robust terminals on the rear panel, designed to accept bare wire, banana plugs, or pins. Clear markings for Left and Right channels, as well as positive (+) and negative (-) terminals, ensure correct speaker wiring. In bridged mode, specific terminals (L+ and R-) are designated for the single mono output.

Maintenance Features

The NAD C 298 is designed for minimal user maintenance. The manufacturer advises against removing the cover, as there are no user-serviceable parts inside. Any servicing or repairs should be referred to qualified service personnel. This ensures the safety of the user and the integrity of the device.

For cleaning, a dry, soft cloth is recommended. If necessary, the cloth can be lightly dampened with soapy water. Users are cautioned against using liquid cleaners, aerosol cleaners, or solutions containing benzol or other volatile agents, as these can damage the finish or internal components.

Proper ventilation is crucial for the longevity and reliable operation of the C 298. The design incorporates ventilation slots and openings in the cabinet, which must not be blocked or covered. Adequate space around the unit (10 cm on left, right, and rear panels, and 10 cm on the top panel) is required to ensure proper airflow and prevent overheating. The amplifier should not be placed on soft surfaces like carpets or in enclosed spaces such as bookcases or cabinets without sufficient ventilation.

The device also includes a fuse holder, which is only accessible by qualified NAD service technicians. Attempting to open this fuse holder by unauthorized personnel may cause damage and void the warranty.

For environmental protection, the C 298 and its batteries (if any) are marked for separate collection and recycling at the end of their useful life, in compliance with environmental regulations. This promotes responsible disposal and recycling of electronic waste.

Overall, the NAD C 298 is a versatile and powerful stereo amplifier, offering robust performance, flexible configuration options, and user-friendly features, while emphasizing safety and proper maintenance practices.

NAD C298 Specifications

General IconGeneral
Gain29dB
Standby Power<0.5W
Continuous Power Output185W per channel (8Ω)
IHF Dynamic Power260W into 8 Ohms, 340W into 4 Ohms, 570W into 2 Ohms
Rated Power (Stereo)185W per channel (8Ω)
Rated Power (Bridged)620W into 8 Ohms
Power Output per Channel185W into 8 Ohms
THD+N<0.005% (20Hz-20kHz)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio>120dB (A-weighted)
Frequency Response20Hz-20kHz ±0.3dB
Damping Factor>800
Input Sensitivity1.4V (for rated power into 8 Ohms)
Dimensions435 x 120 x 390mm (W x H x D)
Weight11.2kg (24.7lbs)

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