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NAD C 165BEE Stereo Preamplifier

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Performance

The C 165BEE is an all new design representing a lifetime of design experience from NAD’s renowned Director of Advanced Developments, Bjorn Erik Edvardsen. New semiconductors and improved production techniques such as surface mount devices (SMDs) have created opportunities for performance far beyond expectation when compared to previous products in this price range. Compared to its predecessor the C 162, an improved tone control circuit and revised PCB layout has reduced distortion and noise to unprecedented levels when combined with the high signal capacity of the NAD Class A Gain Modules.

Class A gain modules combine the short signal path advantage of IC based OPAmps with the higher signal and current capacity of discrete transistors. Here SMD is used to miniaturize the circuit while the extruded aluminum heat sink keeps all parts at the optimal operating temperature for ultra low distortion. This unique NAD development endows the C 165BEE with lightening fast transient response and bass extension and defi nition that is uncommon at this price level. High frequencies are extended, silky smooth and grain-free.

In the phono stage we have added 3 position switches to individually select the resistance and capacitance of the phono stage to allow precise matching of most popular Moving Magnet and Moving Coil phono cartridges. Other refi nements have lowered noise and improved the overload margin. Precision close tolerance parts are used to achieve nearly perfect RIAA response.

We’ve also improved the headphone amplifying circuit to better drive studio quality high impedance headphones. Taken together, these improvements mark a sharp upturn in performance that simply must be heard, to be fully appreciated!

Features

Unlike many high-end preamps that skimp on inputs and features, the C 165BEE has all the fl exibility you will ever need. Starting with 6 line level inputs and the previously mentioned MC/MM phono input, the C 165BEE also includes a superbly designed tone control circuit. While tone control circuits in general tend to hurt performance by adding noise and distortion, the C 165BEE is a textbook example of how to correctly implement high fi delity tone controls. Affecting only the frequency extremes they leave the critical midrange untouched. Their moderate action is perfect for touching up the tonal balance of all the less than perfect recordings in your collection. A Tone Defeat switch quickly selects fl at response and bypasses all the tone control circuitry.

A full function remote control also includes controls for other NAD components allowing a ‘one remote’ solution for your NAD system

Custom Installation Ready

With a 12V trigger output and IR inputs and outputs on the rear panel, the C165BEE is ready to integrate with CI control systems. Discrete On/Off codes and direct access to inputs make programming easy.

Green Features

NAD has responded quickly and responsibly to the new awareness of environmental damage caused by human activity. The C 165BEE is manufactured without the heavy metals that have been identifi ed as harmful to the environment and manufacturing processes meet the latest stringent international standards. Standby power consumption is best in its class at <1 watt.

Value

We don’t think you’ll fi nd another preamp with the same pedigree, performance, and fl exibility at anywhere near the low price of the C 165BEE. Classic understated styling, superb build quality and true engineering sophistication at an affordable price; that’s the NAD difference.

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