A turntable and CD player couldn’t hurt either in this scenario for those looking to build out a compact system that offers access to both physical and digital streaming media.
Building on the foundation of its successful C 700 BluOS Streaming Amplifier (originally released in 2021), NAD has decided that now is the time for an update, thus the announcement of its C 700 V2 BluOS Streaming Amplifier.
What’s New?
The C 700 V2 is designed to increase performance and functionality over its predecessor with an improved ESS Sabre DAC, MM phono input, Dolby Digital decoding, Dirac Live readiness, and more.
DAC & Amp
With the inclusion of an advanced ESS Sabre ES9028 DAC, the amplifier is designed to refine the listening experience with greater precision and depth. This upgrade, along with NAD’s proven HybridDigital UcD amplifier technology. This supports powerful and clear sound reproduction.
As an amplifier, the NAD C 700 V2 has everything needed to play music – just add speakers.
Tech Note: The C 700 V2 also includes analog audio preamp outputs for connecting to an external amplifier, stereo/home theater receiver, or other compatible audio systems if desired.
One of the standout features of the C 700 V2 is its seamless integration of stereo and surround sound capability. Users can switch to a 4.1 Dolby Digital Surround setup with BluOS-enabled rear channels and a wired subwoofer. This enables the C 700 V2 suitable for both music and home theater applications.
Dirac Live
The NAD C 700 V2 streaming amplifier has also been made ready for Dirac Live. When implemented this provides users the ability to unlock advanced room correction ( Dirac Live license purchase required for use).
Using a calibration microphone (sold separately) and the Dirac app, users can tune their speakers from anywhere in the listening room. The C 700 V2 stores up to five Dirac Live profiles, accommodating different setups and room conditions.
Input Sources
On the input side, the addition of an MM (Moving Magnet) phono input is great for vinyl enthusiasts. This joins the connectivity carried over from the C 700 including HDMI eARC, two-way aptX HD Bluetooth, and Apple AirPlay 2. A USB Type A connection is provided for music playback or (new for 2024) connecting an optional calibration mic.
BluOS
Similar to the C 700, BluOS streaming and multi-room control functionality are at the core of the C 700 V2. This provides access to over 20 popular music streaming services, thousands of internet radio stations, and local digital music libraries. Up to 63 Zones are accommodated.
Control Options
User-friendly controls are provided on the user, the BluOS Controller app, along with the included remote and compatibility with other IR remotes. The C 700 V2 is also compatible with major home control systems and voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri adding another layer of convenience.
Design Elements
The C 700 V2’s design elements include a high-definition color display framed by a solid aluminum body that provides a premium and minimalist look.
Comparison
| C 700 V2 | C700 | |
| Price | $1,599 (US) $2,199 (CDN) | $1,499 (US) $1,999 (CDN) |
| Amplifier Type | Hybrid Digital UcD Amplifier | HybridDigital UcD Amplifier |
| Output Power | Continuous: 80 Watts per channel into 8/4 ohms Instantaneous: 120 Watts per channel into 8/4 ohms | Continuous: 80 Watts per channel into 8/4 ohms Instantaneous: 120 Watts per channel into 8/4 ohms |
| DAC | ESS Sabre ES9028 | Info Not Provided |
| Dolby Digital Decoding | Yes | No |
| Dirac Live Ready | Yes | No |
| Status Display (5-inches) | Yes | Yes |
| Cabinet | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| BluOS App | Yes Multiroom up to 63 Zones | Yes, Multiroom up to 63 Zones |
| Hi-Res Audio | Up to 24-bit/192Hz | Up to 24-bit/192Hz |
| MQA (Decoding/Rendering) | Yes | Yes |
| Lossless/Hi-Res Streaming | Amazon Music HD Deezer Idagio Qobuz Tidal | Amazon Music HD Deezer Idagio Qobuz Tidal |
| AppleAir Play 2 | Yes | Yes |
| Spotify Connect | Yes | Yes |
| Tidal Connect | Yes | Yes |
| Roon | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| MM Phono Input | Yes | No |
| Analog (RCA Inputs) | Yes | Yes |
| Optical/Coax Digital Inputs | Yes | Yes |
| HDMI-ARC/eARC | Yes | Yes |
| Preamp Outputs | Yes | Yes |
| Subwoofer Output | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Control | Amazon Alexa Apple Siri Google Assistant | Amazon Alexa Apple Siri Google Assistant |
| !2 Volt Trigger | Yes | Yes |
| IR Remote Control | Yes | Yes |
| Custom Control Compatibility | Control4 Crestron Elan RTI | Control4 Crestron Elan RTI |
| Dimensions (WHD) | 218 x 96 x 266 mm 8 5/8 x 3 13/16 x 10 1/2 inches | 218 x 96 x 266 mm 8 5/8 x 3 13/16 x 10 1/2 inches |
| Net Weight | 4.8 kg (10.6 lbs.) | 4.8 kg (10.6 lbs.) |
From Cas Oostvogel, NAD’s Product Manager: “The NAD C 700 V2 BluOS Streaming Amplifier sets a new benchmark in its category, combining high-resolution, multi-room streaming, versatile connectivity, and smart features in a compact and elegant package,…Building on NAD’s rich legacy of innovation and value, the C 700 V2 offers a compelling, high-quality, all-in-one music streaming amplifier with modern conveniences.”
Initial Impressions
The streaming amplifier product category has grown a lot in the past few years. These components combine an integrated amplifier with a music streamer within the same chassis. Also included are DAC (digital-to-analog converter) and network/internet connectivity (Wi-Fi and/or Ethernet). An internal operating system determines what music services are accessible.
For 2024, NAD has updated its already successful C 700 Streaming Amplifier as the C 700 V2. For those who own a C 700, there is no need to suddenly go out and get the V2 if you are satisfied with what you have.
However, if you feel that having a new DAC, are looking for turntable connectivity, Dolby Digital decoding, and the added bonus of Dirac Live room correction, then the V2 might be just for you.
If you do make the move to the V2, keep in mind if you want to use Dirac Live for room correction, you still have to pay for a license, adding more to that $1,599 (US) price tag.
If you are looking for something more basic that still delivers, you might want to check out the surprising WiiM Amp Pro for $369.
Prices & Availability
The NAD C 700 V2 will be available at authorized retailers in late August 2024 for a suggested retail price of $1599 (US) / $2199 (CDN).
Tip: The NAD C 700 is available now for $1,499 at Amazon and $1,999 (CDN)
Related Reading
ÖRT
June 29, 2024 at 2:30 pm
NAD should have chosen Ella Fitzgerald instead of Pjörk for this display shot of their C700V2.
Otherwise, it does look nice. I remember when more than a few frAudiophilies would B&M (Beeotch & Moan) about how displays introduced “noise” into their precious personal sysems (i.e., eardrums). Maroons the lot of ’em.
Thank you.
bÖRT
Ian White
June 29, 2024 at 7:16 pm
ORT,
Ella or Sarah. Nice girl from Newark who did well.
NAD is making some great products right now. I have the C 399 in-house as part of my reviews for this summer and it’s very good.
I think the C 700 V2 looks the part and will likely be a very strong performer.
Sir Ian
Vlada
June 30, 2024 at 7:04 pm
Looks like a very nice piece of gear, as we come to expect from NAD lately.
But, does it’s quality justify it’s 5x higher price than the 370$ WiiM Ultra, which has more/less similar features and similarly outstanding controlling software?
Just my 2 cents…
Regards
Vlada
TonyE
July 1, 2024 at 12:40 am
What market is this designed for?
I would have thought that most people here would use powered speakers. Perhaps a good bluetooth connection and back up preamp output might make the most sense for this?
Chris Boylan
July 1, 2024 at 8:59 pm
Building a power amp into the streamer – particularly for a company like NAD who are known for their amplifier quality – makes sense as it opens the customer up to many more speaker options and keeps the system a little bit simpler. Also, since the streamer is probably going to be located right between the pair of speakers, I’d rather have a couple of speaker cables to connect than have to plug in a powered speaker on each side.
Ian White
July 1, 2024 at 10:43 pm
It will also make sense for those who already own a CD player, turntable, and pair of loudspeakers in a secondary system that they want to power with something powerful and compact.
NAD is offering a lot in this little box. Power amplifier, phono pre-amplifier, hi-res streamer — all driven by one of the best control apps available. Having set up the previous version and the C 399 — it takes very little to get this system playing.
Add in support for Dirac Live? Sold.
Ian White
ORT
July 2, 2024 at 2:06 am
The Divine One, aka the eternally gorgeous Sarah Vaughn had a daughter, the beautiful actress, Paris Vaughn.
Paris is married to former NHL Star Russ Courtnall.
Sarah is another favourite vocalist of mine. Why am I writing this? Because all equipment is about the music and Sarah’s voice is music made flesh. And my younger brother has gotten me kinda-sorta hooked on hockey.
ORT