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NAD is a Canadian audio manufacturer that has been making high-end hi-fi gear since the early 1970s. Today, it’s probably best known for its integrated amplifiers, music streamers, and home theater components, each of which falls into one of two ranges: either its Masters series or Classic series.
The Masters series, as you might have guessed, is reserved for NAD’s flagship audio components. They typically run from between $3,000 to $10,000. While the Classic series comprises more affordable (yet still audiophile-grade) components, typically priced between $500 and $3,000.
Now, NAD is adding a new CD player to its Classic series.
NAD C 589
A new Classic CD player
The NAD C 589 is the newest CD player in the company’s Classic series. It joins the C 538 ($399), which was released in early 2018, as the other current CD player in the range.
But at $1,000 more expensive, the C 589 promises a significant step-up in performance. The company describes it as “a precision-engineered source component designed to extract the highest level of performance from compact discs.”
To do this, NAD integrated the C 589 with higher-end technologies. This includes a precision disc loader and transport mechanism that’s been engineered for smooth, quiet playback across a wide range of CDs, including older or frequently played discs.
It also features a carefully implemented digital-to-analog conversion stage that, according to the brand, is “designed to preserve fine musical detail while maintaining low noise and distortion.”
A plug-and-play solution
More interestingly, NAD integrated the C 589 with a digital audio technology developed by MQA Labs, called QRONO d2a, that improves digital timing and reconstruction accuracy. According to the brand, this “advanced processing helps ensure that the C 589 reveals the subtle nuances and dynamic energy captured in compact disc recordings.”
NAD has integrated similar technologies from MQA Labs into its Master Series components, such as its $5,999 M33 V2 streaming amplifier.
Additionally, the C 589 is a CD player designed to work with a wide variety of sources thanks to a comprehensive selection of analog and digital outputs.
It features balanced XLR and RCA analog outputs for direct connection to an integrated amplifier or preamplifier. If you want to skip its internal DAC and use it exclusively as a CD transport, it has digital outputs (AES/EBU, coaxial, and optical) so you can hook it up to an external DAC.
Availability and pricing
The NAD C 589 CD Player will be available “soon” through authorized NAD retailers worldwide. It costs $1,399 and comes in one finish: black.
NAD C 589 CD Player
$1,399 at NAD
About the Author:
Tucker Bowe has been on Gear Patrol’s editorial team since 2014. With a passion for consumer tech and hi-fi, he tracks everything from headphones and turntables to smartphones and wearables. If it lights up or makes noise, he probably covers it.
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