NAD C 316BEE V2 Integrated Amplifier with Phono

The NAD C 316BEE V2 is a stereo integrated amplifier that combines a preamp, MM phono stage and 2× 40 watt power stage in a deliberately slim analog chassis.

It's the modern continuation of a legend: NAD's budget amplifiers go all the way back to the 3020 from 1978 – devices that have always proven good sound doesn't need a four-figure bill. The C 316BEE V2 picks up exactly where that left off.

Why the C 316BEE V2?

Because it does the essentials uncompromisingly well and leaves out the rest. At its heart is NAD's PowerDrive circuit: it dynamically regulates the power supply so the rated 40 watts per channel feels noticeably stronger in practice – briefly delivering over 100 watts for loud transients. A generously sized toroidal transformer and discrete output transistors deliver the calm, mature sound you'd otherwise expect from significantly more expensive NAD devices.

What you hear

A relaxed, natural sound with a clean background and honest dynamics – nothing is dressed up, nothing pushed forward. The built-in MM phono stage with precise RIAA equalization and a subsonic filter makes it a complete turntable amplifier at no extra cost. Five line inputs, a front input for your phone, and a clean headphone output cover the rest.

Who is the C 316BEE V2 for? (and who isn't it for)

Ideal for anyone who wants an honest, sonically mature stereo system without frills – as a first amplifier, for a home office or bedroom, or as a way into vinyl. Bottom line: if you expect streaming, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or a built-in DAC, this isn't for you – the C 316BEE V2 is deliberately pure analog. And if you want to fill a large hall with power-hungry speakers, you're better off with a bigger NAD. For normal living rooms the power is easily enough.

Our verdict

The C 316BEE V2 is one of the most honest value deals in all of hi-fi. No frills, but everything that counts – sound, phono, solid engineering. Cross our heart: for the price, you rarely get this much genuine NAD.

Technical specifications

• Type: stereo integrated amplifier (analog)
• Continuous power: 2× 40 watts (8 & 4 ohms)
• Dynamic power (IHF): 90 W (8 Ω) / 120 W (4 Ω) / 170 W (2 Ω)
• Total harmonic distortion (THD): < 0.03 %
• Phono input: MM (moving magnet), RIAA with subsonic filter
• Inputs: 5× line (RCA) + front input
• Outputs: 1 speaker pair, headphones (6.3 mm)
• Tone control: bass/treble, switchable (tone defeat)
• Standby consumption: < 0.5 watts
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 435 × 90 × 285 mm
• Weight: 5.5 kg
• What's included: integrated amplifier, IR remote control, power cable, user manual

Frequently asked questions

Does the C 316BEE V2 need a separate phono stage?
No. A high-quality MM phono stage with precise RIAA equalization is already built in. You connect your turntable with an MM cartridge directly and go – no extra device and no extra cost.

Is 2× 40 watts enough for my speakers?
For normal living rooms and the vast majority of bookshelf and floorstanding speakers: yes. Thanks to PowerDrive, the amplifier briefly delivers over 100 watts for dynamic peaks. Only with very large rooms or particularly low-efficiency speakers does a bigger model pay off.

Does the C 316BEE V2 have Bluetooth or streaming?
No, it's deliberately built pure analog. If you want to stream, you pair it with a network player or choose a NAD with BluOS. We're happy to advise you on which route suits your setup.

Why buy the NAD C 316BEE V2 at HD Zürisee?
Because we've lived and breathed hi-fi in Wädenswil for decades and know which devices bring joy in everyday use. We help you find the right speaker and turntable match, deliver and install on request – and our technician Mauri is there when it matters.

Goes well with

A turntable is what really makes the phono stage happy – browse our turntables. Add matching bookshelf speakers or floorstanding speakers and your honest stereo system is complete.