NAD C389 + MDC2 BluOS Streaming Integrated Amplifier

The NAD C389 is a stereo integrated amplifier with high-quality ESS Sabre DAC that, in this version, plays as a high-res network streamer from the moment you switch it on – thanks to a factory-fitted MDC2 BluOS-D module – complete with BluOS, Dirac Live and HDMI eARC.

The workhorse of the Classic Series, here configured ready to go: 2 × 130 watts, a refined ESS converter and multiroom-capable from the first minute. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil you get it fully set up – unbox, plug in, listen, without fitting a single module yourself.

Why this version with built-in BluOS

The C389 comes with two MDC2 slots straight away – in this variant, we've already filled one of them with the MDC2 BluOS-D module. The beauty of it: the second slot stays free and keeps you open for future modules. The HybridDigital UcD power stage with PowerDrive delivers 2 × 130 watts of continuous power (briefly up to 210 watts into 8 Ω, 300 watts into 4 Ω) – controlled, clean and with typical NAD composure.

What the built-in module can do

With the BluOS-D module you stream losslessly over BluOS multiroom, get internet radio plus services like Qobuz or Tidal straight into the unit, and integrate the C389 via AirPlay 2. Via HDMI eARC it becomes the heart of your TV setup, and Dirac Live room correction digitally tunes the sound to your room. The refined ESS Sabre converter (ES9028Q2M, up to 32-bit / 384 kHz) pulls every detail out of your sources; vinyl plays via the low-noise MM phono input, and two subwoofer outputs with digital crossover allow for a clean 2.1 system.

Who is this version made for – and who isn't it for?

Straight talk: Ideal if you want a serious stereo amplifier with a very good DAC, ready-made streaming and headroom for tomorrow – thanks to the second, free MDC2 slot. If you'd rather add the BluOS module yourself later, or listen purely in analogue at first, get the bare C389 version. And for a small second system in the bedroom, the C389 is simply too much of a good thing.

Our verdict

For many, the sweet spot of the Classic Series – now without waiting for streaming: enough power, a very good ESS DAC, a ready-built BluOS hub and a second slot that keeps you future-proof. Tell us which speakers you have or are planning – we'll tell you honestly whether the C389 is the right choice, or whether the C379 or C399 suits you better.

Technical specifications

• Type: stereo integrated amplifier with built-in BluOS streamer (MDC2 BluOS-D fitted at the factory)
• Amplifier technology: HybridDigital UcD with PowerDrive
• Continuous power output: 2 × 130 watts into 8 and 4 Ω
• Dynamic power: 210 watts (8 Ω) / 300 watts (4 Ω)
• Streaming platform: BluOS (multiroom, AirPlay 2, Dirac Live, Spotify Connect, Tidal, Qobuz and more)
• DAC: ESS Sabre ES9028Q2M (up to 32-bit / 384 kHz)
• Digital inputs: 2× optical, 2× coaxial
• Video: 1× HDMI eARC (with CEC volume control)
• Analogue inputs: 2× high-level (RCA), 1× MM phono
• Outputs: pre-out, 2× subwoofer out (digital crossover), headphone
• Expansion: 2× MDC2 slot (1× fitted with BluOS-D, 1× free)
• Wireless: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth (via BluOS module)
• Controls: remote control, BluOS app
• Dimensions W×H×D: 43.5 × 12.0 × 39.0 cm
• Weight: 11.2 kg

What's in the box

• 1× NAD C389 (MDC2 BluOS-D module fitted at the factory)
• 1× remote control
• 1× Dirac calibration microphone
• Wi-Fi antennas
• Power cable
• User manual

Frequently asked questions

Is streaming already built into this C389?

Yes. The MDC2 BluOS-D module is fitted at the factory. The C389 is therefore a full-blooded BluOS streamer with Dirac Live, AirPlay 2 and HDMI eARC without any upgrade needed. You don't have to buy or have a module fitted separately – the unit is ready to go.

Does one MDC2 slot on the C389 stay free despite the module?

Yes. The C389 has two MDC2 slots. One is fitted with the BluOS-D module, the second stays free – so you can expand the amplifier with another module later and stay up to date.

What exactly can the BluOS-D module do?

It turns the C389 into a streaming hub: lossless BluOS multiroom, services like Qobuz, Tidal and Spotify, internet radio, AirPlay 2 as well as HDMI eARC for the TV. On top of that comes Dirac Live, which digitally tunes the sound to your listening room via a calibration microphone.

How much power does the C389 have?

The C389 delivers 2 × 130 watts continuous power into 8 and 4 ohms, briefly up to 210 watts into 8 Ω and 300 watts into 4 Ω. That confidently drives bookshelf and floorstanding speakers alike in small to large rooms and stays in control of the bass even at higher levels.

Why buy the NAD C389 at HD Zürisee?

Because we know the C389, not just its spec sheet. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil we advise you on which speakers suit it and how to get the most out of Dirac and BluOS. As an authorised NAD specialist dealer we handle warranty and service – get in touch by phone, email or WhatsApp.

Goes well with: floorstanding speakers, bookshelf speakers, a turntable for the phono input, a subwoofer and good speaker cables.