NAD C399 Hybrid Digital DAC Amplifier Owner’s Manual

NAD C399 Hybrid Digital DAC Amplifier

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

• Read instructions – All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the product is operated.

• Retain instructions – The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.

• Heed Warnings – All warnings on the product and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.

• Follow Instructions – All operating and use instructions should be followed.

• Cleaning – Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.

• Attachments – Do not use attachments not recommended by the product manufacturer as they may cause hazards.

• Water and Moisture – Do not use this product near water-for example, near a bath tub, wash bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub; in a wet basement; or near a swimming pool; and the like.

• Accessories – Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult and serious damage to the product. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the manufacturer, or sold with the product. Any mounting of the product should follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and should use a mounting accessory recommended by the manufacturer.

• Cart – A product and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart combination to overturn.

• Ventilation – Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation to ensure reliable operation of the product and to protect it from overheating. These openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. This product should not be placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack unless proper ventilation is provided or the manufacturer’s instructions have been adhered to.

• Power Sources – This product should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label and connected to a MAINS socket outlet with a protective earthing connection. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your product dealer or local power company.

• Power–Cord Protection – Power-supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the product.

• Mains Plug – Where the mains plug or an appliance coupler is used as the disconnect device, the disconnect device shall remain readily operable.

• Outdoor Antenna Grounding – If an outside antenna or cable system is connected to the product, be sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges. Article 810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, provides information with regard to proper grounding of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna discharge unit, size of grounding conductors, location of antenna discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes, and requirements for the grounding electrode.

• Lightning – For added protection for this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and power-line surges.

• Power Lines – An outside antenna system should not be located in the vicinity of overhead power lines or other electric light or power circuits, or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When installing an outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from touching such power lines or circuits as contact with them might be fatal.

• Overloading – Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords, or integral convenience receptacles as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock.

• Flame Sources – No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, should be placed on the product.

• Object and Liquid Entry – Never push objects of any kind into this product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.

• Headphones – Excessive sound pressure form earphones and headphones can cause hearing loss.

• Damage Requiring Service – Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:
  – When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.
  – If liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into the product.
  – If the product has been exposed to rain or water.
  – If the product does not operate normally by following the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions as an improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to its normal operation.
  – If the product has been dropped or damaged in any way.
  – When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance this indicates a need for service.

• Replacement Parts – When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by the manufacturer or have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.

• Battery Disposal – When disposing of used batteries, please comply with governmental regulations or environmental public instruction’s rules that apply in your country or area.

• Safety Check – Upon completion of any service or repairs to this product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine that the product is in proper operating condition.

• Wall or Ceiling Mounting – The product should be mounted to a wall or ceiling only as recommended by the manufacturer.

Warning:

THE LIGHTNING FLASH WITH ARROWHEAD SYMBOL, WITHIN AN EQUILATERAL TRIANGLE, IS INTENDED TO ALERT THE USER TO THE PRESENCE OF UNINSULATED “DANGEROUS VOLTAGE” WITHIN THE PRODUCT’S ENCLOSURE THAT MAY BE OF SUFFICIENT MAGNITUDE TO CONSTITUTE A RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK TO PERSONS

THE EXCLAMATION POINT WITHIN AN EQUILATERAL TRIANGLE IS INTENDED TO ALERT THE USER TO THE PRESENCE OF IMPORTANT OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE (SERVICING) INSTRUCTIONS IN THE LITERATURE ACCOMPANYING THE APPLIANCE.

CAUTION REGARDING PLACEMENT
To maintain proper ventilation, be sure to leave a space around the unit (from the largest outer dimensions including projections) than is equal to, or greater than shown below.

Left and Right Panels: 10 cm
Rear Panel: 10 cm
Top Panel: 10 cm

FCC STATEMENT

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined
by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio TV technician for help.

CAUTION

• Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by NAD Electronics for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.
• This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules / Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
  1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and
  2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
• Under Industry Canada regulations, this radio transmitter may only operate using an antenna of a type and maximum (or lesser) gain approved for the transmitter by Industry Canada. To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary for successful communication.
• To prevent electric shock, match wide blade of plug to wide slot, fully insert.
• Marking and rating plate can be found at the rear panel of the apparatus.
• To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture. The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and that no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on apparatus.
• Mains plug is used as disconnect device and it should remain readily operable during intended use. In order to disconnect the apparatus from the mains completely, the mains plug should be disconnected from the mains socket outlet completely.
• Battery shall not be exposed to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or the like.
• Danger of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type.
• An appliance with a protective earth terminal should be connected to a mains outlet with a protective earth connection.

MPE REMINDER
To satisfy FCC/IC RF exposure requirements, a separation distance of 20 cm or more should be maintained between the antenna of this device and persons during device operation. To ensure compliance, operations at closer than this distance is not recommended.

IF IN DOUBT CONSULT A COMPETENT ELECTRICIAN.
This product is manufactured to comply with the radio interference requirements of EEC DIRECTIVE 2004/108/EC.

NOTES ON ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
At the end of its useful life, this product must not be disposed of with regular household waste but must be returned to a collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. The symbol on the product, user’s manual and packaging point this out.

The materials can be reused in accordance with their markings. Through re-use, recycling of raw materials, or other forms of recycling of old products, you are making an important contribution to the protection of our environment.
Your local administrative office can advise you of the responsible waste disposal point.
INFORMATION ABOUT COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL OF WASTE BATTERIES (DIRECTIVE 2006/66/EC OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND THE COUNCIL OF EUROPEAN UNION) (FOR EUROPEAN CUSTOMERS ONLY)

Batteries bearing any of these symbols indicate that they should be treated as “separate collection” and not as municipal waste. It is encouraged that necessary measures are implemented to maximize the separate collection of waste batteries and to minimize the disposal of batteries as mixed municipal waste.
End-users are exhorted not to dispose waste batteries as unsorted municipal waste. In order to achieve a high level of recycling waste batteries, discard waste batteries separately and properly through an accessible collection point in your vicinity. For more information about collection and recycling of waste batteries, please contact your local municipality, your waste disposal service or the point of sale where you purchased the items.
By ensuring compliance and conformance to proper disposal of waste batteries, potential hazardous effects on human health is prevented and the negative impact of batteries and waste batteries on the environment is minimized, thus contributing to the protection, preservation and quality improvement of the environment.

WHAT’S IN THE BOX

• Packed with your C 399 you will find
• Two detachable mains power cord
• SR 9 remote control with 2 AA batteries
• Bluetooth antennas
• Quick Setup Guide

SAVE THE PACKAGING
Please save the box and all of the packaging in which your C 399 arrived. Should you move or need to transport your C 399, this is the safest container in which to do so. We’ve seen too many otherwise perfect components damaged in transit for lack of a proper shipping carton so, please: Save that box!

CHOOSING A LOCATION

Choose a location that is well ventilated (with at least several inches to both sides and behind), and that will provide a clear line of sight, within 25 feet / 8 meters, between the C 399’s front panel and your primary listening/viewing position—this will ensure reliable infrared remote control communications. The C 399 generates a modest amount of heat, but nothing that should trouble adjacent components.

RESTORING C 399 TO FACTORY DEFAULT SETTINGS
Press and hold both front panel’s a SOURCE s buttons until the display shows the following two reset options. Use a or s buttons to select through the options.

• Factory Reset MCU? : Restore MCU factory default settings only
• Factory Reset BluOS? : Restore BluOS factory default settings only
  Press [ENTER] to select “Yes” and initiate selected Factory Reset option.

IMPORTANT: Restoring C 399 to factory default settings will delete all applicable configured or saved settings.

INTRODUCTION

QUICK SETUP GUIDE
This simple guide will help you get started with your C 399.
Your C 399 can be connected to your home network via Wired or Wireless connection.
IMPORTANT!

• For wired and wireless connection to be established, ensure that a broadband router that supports Ethernet and/or Wi-Fi standards is setup and available.
• Tablets, smartphones and other applicable devices that support iOS (Apple) or Android operating system can be used as mobile device controller. These devices are not supplied with your C 399.
• Download and install the corresponding “BluOS Controller” App for your device.
• The BluOS App is available as a Mobile App for Android, iOS, Kindle and Desktop App for Windows and macOS computers.
• Mobile Apps are handled by the respective Application Store of the Mobile devices.
• Desktop Apps are available to download directly from the Bluesound homepage – www.bluesound.com

WIRED CONNECTION
Using an Ethernet cable (not supplied), connect one end to C 399’s LAN port and the other end directly to your Wired network or router.

WIRELESS CONNECTION
The process is very easy but slightly differs between iOS (Apple) and Android devices. Follow below instructions for the smartphone or tablet that applies to you. Windows and Mac users please see the instructions under Wireless Manual Setup below.

ANDROID

1. Open App. The App may immediately prompt you saying “New Player detected”, select ”Setup Now”.
   • If you are not prompted, open the Player Drawer by pressing the Home icon in the top right corner of the App.
   • Scroll to the bottom and select ”Add a Player” to launch the Easy Setup Wizard.
   • Select your C 399’s unique network ID* from the Players detected Window.
   • Select your Home Wi-Fi Network from the “Choose a Wi-Fi Network” drop down menu.
   • If your Home Wi-Fi Network does not appear or is hidden, select ”Manual SSID Entry”. Enter network or applicable wireless network name.
   • Select the “Network Security” your network uses.
2. Enter your home network’s Wi-Fi Password in the field provided and select “OK”.
3. Enter the “Player Name” you prefer your C 399 to be customized for easier identification in the Player Drawer. Network setup connection proceeds automatically.
4. Network setup connection is completed when “Setup Complete” is shown in the App.

• The C 399’s unique network ID is listed as the product name (i.e. C 399) immediately followed by the last four digits in the MAC (Machine Access Control) address (example: C399-001A). The full 12-digit MAC address is printed on a sticker on the C 399 rear panel.

iOS

1. Open App. Select Home icon in the top right corner of the App.
2. Scroll to the bottom and select ”Add a Player” to launch the Easy Setup Wizard.
3. As illustrated, press the Home button and open the iOS Settings App to select the Wi-Fi network you will connect.
4. From the same iOS Settings App, select your C 399’s unique network ID*. Follow prompt instructions.
5. Network setup connection is completed when “All Done!” is shown in the App.

If the above method does not work or if you are using Windows or macOS, Wireless Manual Setup can be undertaken.

WIRELESS MANUAL SETUP

1. Select your C 399’s unique network ID* from the Wi-Fi Setup connection settings menu of your tablet, smart phone or computer and join it.
2. “…Control Panel” menu window should automatically open. If not, open the web browser of your device and visit http://10.1.2.3
3. Select “Configure Wi-Fi” from the “…Control Panel” menu. Select your network or applicable wireless network name (SSID) from the “Configure Wireless” drop down menu.
4. Enter your network’s Wireless Password (Passphrase, WEP/WAP key as applicable) in the field “Enter password or key (if protected)”.
5. Select a “Player name” from the drop down list or use the on-screen keyboard to create a customized room name in the field “Custom name”. 6 Select “Update” to save all your settings and complete the set up connection of your C 399. Do not forget to go back to the Wi-Fi Settings section of your device to confirm that it is reconnected to the correct Wi-Fi network.

Your C 399 is now connected to your Wi-Fi network and ready to be used with the BluOS controller App.

IMPORTANT!
Always ensure that your C 399 is updated with the latest firmware. Go to the C 399 product page at nadelectronics.com for firmware update information.

IDENTIFICATION OF CONTROLS

FRONT PANEL

1. POWER INDICATOR

   • This indicator will be amber when the C 399 is in standby mode.
   • When the C 399 is powered up from standby mode, this indicator will change from amber to blue color.

2. STANDBY BUTTON

   • Press Standby button to switch ON the C 399 from standby mode. The Power indicator will change from amber to blue color.

   • Pressing Standby button again switches back C 399 to standby mode. The Power indicator will change from blue to amber color.

   • The Standby button cannot activate the C 399 if the rear panel POWER switch is off.
     IMPORTANT NOTES
     Conditions for Standby button to activate

   • Connect the plug of the supplied power cord to a mains power outlet while ensuring that the other end of the power cord is firmly connected to C 399’s AC Mains input socket.

   • The rear panel POWER switch must be set to ON.

3. NAVIGATION AND ENTER BUTTONS

   • The navigation [d/f/a/s] and [ENTER] buttons are used to go through menu options and selections.
   • Use [d/f/a/s] to go up, down, left or right the given options or selections.
   • The middle round button is designated as [ENTER] button. This is normally pressed to complete a selection, procedure, sequence or other applicable functions.

4. HEADPHONES

   • A 1/4” stereo jack socket is supplied for headphone listening and will work with conventional headphones of any impedance.
   • The volume, tone and balance controls are operative for headphone listening. Use a suitable adapter to connect headphones with other types of sockets, such as 3.5mm “personal stereo” jack plugs.

5. DISPLAY

   • Visual and menu information are shown according to the selected settings.
   • The following Main menu options are selectable from the display – Settings, Source Setup and System Info.
   • Use the SR 9 remote control or front panel navigation [d/f/a/s] and [ENTER] buttons to go through menu options and selections.

6. REMOTE SENSOR

   • Point the SR 9 remote control at the remote sensor and press the buttons.
   • Do not expose the remote sensor of the C 399 to a strong light source such as direct sunlight or illumination. If you do so, you may not be able to operate the C 399 with the remote control.
     Distance: About 23ft (7m) from the front of the remote sensor.
     Angle: About 30° in each direction of the front of the remote sensor.

7. • Press a SOURCE or SOURCE s to select Sources.

8. VOLUME

   • The VOLUME control adjusts the overall loudness of the signal sent to the loudspeakers. The Volume control is characterized by perfect signal tracking and channel balance. It provides a highly linear and low noise operation.
   • Turn clockwise to increase the volume level and counterclockwise to lower it.
   • The default volume level is -20dB.
   • Volume level will wake up and reset to the -20 dB default setting if the unit goes to standby mode with a variable volume level higher than -20 dB. However, if volume level is lower than -20 dB when the unit goes to standby mode, that level setting will be preserved when the unit wakes up.

REAR PANEL

ATTENTION!
Please ensure that the C 399 is powered off or unplugged from the mains power outlet before making any connections. It is also advisable to power down or unplug all associated components while making or breaking any signal or AC power connections.

1. BLUETOOTH ANTENNA TERMINAL

   • Install supplied Bluetooth antenna to this Bluetooth antenna terminal.

2. RESET

   • It is not recommended to use RESET button unless necessary. Use the RESET function button when everything else fails and the unit may not be able to recover.
   • Switched OFF the rear panel POWER switch. Press and hold the RESET button and turn switch ON the rear panel POWER switch. There will be two scenarios as you hold on to the RESET button
   • Hold on to the RESET for less than 30 seconds: Initiate chassis USB stick Upgrade or BluOS MDC card upgrade if a BluOS card is installed.
   • Hold on to the RESET for more than 30 seconds: Initiate chassis factory reset.
   • Contact your nearest service center for further guidance on how to use RESET function button.

3. SERVICE

   • Use for USB firmware update. Contact your nearest service center for firmware update guidance.

4. RS 232
   NAD is a certified partner of AMX and Crestron and fully supports these external devices. Check out the NAD website for information about AMX and Crestron compatibility with NAD. See your NAD audio specialist for more information.

   • Connect this interface using RS-232 serial cable (not supplied) to any Windows compatible PC to allow remote control of the C 399 via compatible external controllers.
   • Refer to the NAD website for information about RS232 Protocol documents and PC interface program.

5. IR IN/IR OUT

   • These mini-jacks accept and output remote-controlled codes in electrical format, using industry-standard protocols, for use with “IR-repeater” and multi-room systems and related technologies.

   • All NAD products with IR IN/IR OUT features are fully compatible with the C 399. For non-NAD models, please check with your other product’s service specialists with respect to their compatibility to the C 399’s IR features.

   • IR IN

   • This input is connected to the output of an IR (infrared) repeater (Xantech or similar) or the IR output of another compatible device to allow control of the C 399 from a remote location.
     

   • IR OUT

   • • Connect IR OUT to the IR IN jack of a compatible device.
     • Command and control the linked compatible device by directing its own remote control to C 399’s infrared receiver.

6. +12V TRIGGER – +12V TRIGGER OUT

   • The +12V TRIGGER OUT is used for controlling external equipment equipped with a +12V trigger input.

   • Connect this +12V TRIGGER OUT to the other equipment’s corresponding +12V DC input jack using a mono cable with 3.5mm male plug.

   • This output will be 12V when the C 399 is ON and 0V when it is either OFF or in standby mode.
     +12V TRIGGER IN

   • With this input triggered by a 12V DC supply, the C 399 can be switched ON remotely from standby mode by compatible devices such as amplifiers, preamplifiers, receivers, etc. If the 12V DC supply is cut off, the C 399 will return to standby mode.

   • Connect this +12V Trigger input to the remote device’s corresponding +12V DC output jack using a mono cable with 3.5mm male plug. The controlling device must be equipped with a + 12V trigger output to use this feature.
     NOTE: If there is a stereo jack connected to +12V TRIGGER IN, the C 399 cannot be powered ON/OFF using the front panel Standby button or SR 9’s ON/OFF buttons. The stereo jack has to be unplugged to resume normal powering up of the unit via front panel Standby button or SR 9’s ON/OFF buttons.

7. HDMI ARC

   • Connect to TV that supports HDMI Control (CEC) and Audio Return Channel (ARC) functions. HDMI CEC and ARC functions are possible if external devices that also support these features are interconnected with C 399 via HDMI connection.

   • Use HDMI cable to connect HDMI ARC to corresponding HDMI ARC port of TV. Use HDMI cable that has Ultra High Speed HDMI Certification Label to enjoy support for larger bandwidth and high bitrate format.

   • With ARC connection established, C 399 will output audio signal from TV.
     IMPORTANT:

   • Ensure that the audio setting/format of ARC-connected devices to C 399 is set to PCM only.

   • Only audio output signal from TV is supported by HDMI ARC port.

   • There is no video output at HDMI ARC port of C 399.

8. OPTICAL 1-2/COAXIAL 1-2

   • Connect to the corresponding optical and coaxial digital output of sources such as CD or BD/DVD players, digital cable box, digital tuners and other applicable components.

9. PHONO

   • Input for a Moving Magnet (MM) phono cartridge only. Connect the twin RCA-to-RCA lead from your turntable to this input if you are using a Moving Magnet cartridge.
   • If your turntable includes a ground/earth lead, it can be connected to the Ground Terminal (refer to item 18 below).

10. LINE 1-2 IN

    • Input for line level sources such as CD player, tuner or any compatible devices. Use a twin RCA-to-RCA lead to connect the source device’s left and right “Audio Output” to these line input ports.

11. PRE OUT

    • Use dual RCA-to-RCA cable to connect PRE-OUT to the corresponding analog audio input of compatible devices such as amplifiers, receivers or other applicable devices. This makes it possible to use the C 399 as a pre-amplifier to such devices.

12. SUB OUT 1, 2

    • Connect SUBW 1 and/or 2 to the low level input of corresponding powered subwoofer.
    • Low frequency information up to 80 Hz is sent to the connected subwoofer.

13. SPEAKERS A, B

    • The C 399 has two sets of SPEAKER connections (SPEAKERS A and SPEAKER B) that are identical in function (parallel connection).

    • Connect C 399’s Right speaker terminals marked “R +” and “R-” to the corresponding “+” and “-“ terminals of your designated right speaker. Repeat the same for C 399’s Left speaker terminals and corresponding left speaker.

    • Double check the speaker connections before powering up the C 399.
      IMPORTANT NOTES

    • The blue terminals must never be connected to ground (earth).

    • Never connect the blue terminals together or to any common ground device.

    • Do not connect the output of this amplifier to any headphone adapter, speaker switch or any device that uses common ground for left and right channels.

14. POWER

    • Supplies the AC mains power to C 399.
    • When the POWER switch is set to ON position, the C 399 goes to standby mode as shown by the amber status condition of the front panel Power indicator.
    • Press the front panel Standby button or SR 9’s remote control’s [ON] button to switch ON the C 399 from standby mode.
    • If you do not intend to use the C 399 for long periods of time (such as when on vacation), switch off the POWER switch.
    • With POWER switched off, neither the front panel Standby button nor SR 9 remote control’s [ON] button can activate the C 399.

15. AC MAINS INPUT

    • The C 399 comes supplied with two separate mains power cords. Select the mains power cord appropriate for your region.
    • Before connecting the plug to the mains power outlet, ensure that it is firmly connected to the C 399’s AC Mains input socket.
    • Always disconnect the mains power plug from the mains power outlet before disconnecting the cable from the C 399’s AC Mains input socket.

16. FUSE HOLDER

    • Only qualified NAD service technicians can have access to this fuse holder. Opening this fuse holder may cause damage thus voiding the warranty of your C 399.

17. GROUND TERMINAL

    • Ensure that the C 399 is plugged-in to a grounded AC wall outlet.
    • If necessary, use this ground terminal to connect to ground a phono or turntable source for PHONO input.
    • If a separate earth ground is necessary, use this terminal to ground your C 399. The C 399 can be connected to ground by connecting a ground lead wire or similar to this terminal. After insertion, tighten the terminal to secure the lead.

MDC CLASSIC UPGRADE SLOTS

The delivery format of digital content is constantly changing in pure digital systems like the C 399. Each of these formats typically requires specialized hardware and software, often with licensed IP and content copy protection.
To address continuous technological evolution, NAD has placed all digital interface circuitry of the C 399 on easily upgradable modules, called Modular Design Construction (MDC). The C 399 has provision for two slots where MDC upgrade modules can be installed.
The following optional MDC modules can be integrated with the C 399
– MDC HDM-2 and MDC2 BluOS D modules. Remove covers to install the optional Modular Design Construction (MDC) modules.
Consult your NAD dealer on how to procure the MDC HDM-2 and MDC2 BluOS D modules and their installations to the C 399. Check also the C399 product page for future MDC upgrade modules compatible with C 399.

MDC HDM-2

MDC HDM-2 offers three HDMI input terminals and one HDMI output. MDC HDM-2 adds HDMI switching and audio capability to C 399. It supports 4K@60 4:4:4 and HDCP 2.2 compliant. With MDC HDM-2 installed, C 399 supports HDMI Control (CEC) and Audio Return Channel (ARC) functions.
Both functions are possible if external devices that also support both features are interconnected with C 399 via HDMI connection.

If an ARC connection is established, the front panel display will show “HDMI ARC”.

IMPORTANT!

Ensure that ARC-connected devices to C 399 have their audio settings set to PCM only.

• A HDMI OUT: Connect to corresponding HDMI port of HDTV, projector with HDMI input or TV that supports HDMI CEC/ARC.
• B HDMI 1 – 3: Connect to the HDMI OUT ports of source components such as DVD player, BD player, HDTV satellite/ cable box or any compatible devices.

WARNING!
Before connecting and disconnecting any HDMI cables, both the C 399 and the source must be powered OFF and unplugged from the AC outlet. Failure to do so may cause permanent damage to equipment connected via HDMI sockets.

MDC2 BLUOS D

BluOS is a music management software developed by NAD’s sister brand, Bluesound. Integrating MDC2 BluOS D will add BluOS network and internet music streaming with advanced music management to your C 399. MDC2 BluOS D comes with Dirac Live® Limited Bandwidth
(20Hz – 500Hz) installed.
Refer to the MDC2 BluOS D product page nadelectronics.com/product/mdc2-bluos-d for guidelines and information on how to install and integrate the MDC2 BluOS D with the C 399.

USING THE SR 9 REMOTE CONTROL

The SR 9 remote control handset handles the key functions of the C 399 as well as other NAD Stereo Receivers, Integrated Amplifiers and Preamplifiers. It has additional controls to remotely operate
NAD CD Players, AM/FM Tuners and dedicated AM/FM/DAB Tuners. It will operate up to a distance of 23ft (7m). Alkaline batteries are recommended for maximum operating life. Two AA batteries should be fitted in the battery compartment at the rear of the Remote Control handset. When replacing batteries, check that they have been put in the right way round, as indicated on the base of the battery compartment.

NOTE
The remote control handset supplied with the C 399 is of a universal NAD type, designed to operate several NAD models. Some buttons are applicable only to specific NAD models. Contact your dealer or NAD audio specialist for assistance.

1. POWER ON/OFF: The SR 9 remote has a separate ON and OFF button. Press ON button to switch the unit from Standby to operating mode. Press OFF button to switch the unit to Standby mode.

2. DEVICE SELECTOR: A Device Selector button determines only what component the SR 9 will command; it does not perform any function on the C 399. Press desired Device Selector button
   for the applicable buttons to be directed to a “page” of commands relevant to the selected device.
   Upon selecting a Device, you can now press the corresponding SR 9 control buttons applicable for the selected Device.

3. INPUT SELECTORS: Refer to the corresponding labels printed in the remote control faceplate and their respective assigned buttons to make use of these functions. Set the DEVICE SELECTOR to “AMP” in order to gain access to these buttons.

4. NUMERIC KEYS: The numeric keys allow for direct input of tracks for CD players, and direct channel/preset access for tuners and receivers.

5. SLEEP: Switch off specific NAD Receiver or Tuner models after a preset number of minutes. This button control does not apply to C 399.

6. MUTE: Press the [MUTE] button to temporarily switch OFF the sound to the speakers and headphones. MUTE mode is indicated by the Standby LED indicator flashing for NAD Integrated Amplifiers or “Mute” shown in the VFD of NAD Receivers. For C 399, “Mute” is shown in the display. Press MUTE again to restore sound. Adjusting the volume level via the SR 9 or the front panel volume knob will automatically release the mute function.

7. SOURCE 7/8: Toggle through the source input selections. If the optional MDC modules are installed, the source selections will include the sources incorporated in the applicable modules.

8. DIM (for use with NAD Stereo Receiver, Tuner and CD Player): Reduce, turn off or restore display brightness. Depending on the NAD model, the brightness of the front panel display
   will vary when you toggle this button. For C 399, toggle to vary brightness level of the display – brighter, normal or dimmer.

9. VOL [5/6] : Press [5/6] button to increase or decrease the loudness level. Release the button when the desired level is reached. For NAD Receivers, the VFD will also show “Volume Up” or “Volume Down” while pressing SR 9’s VOL [5/6]. For C 399, when VOL [5/6] is pressed, the dB level shown in the display will correspondingly increase or decrease.

10. SPK A, SPK B: The [SPK A] and [SPK B] buttons engage or disengage the speakers connected respectively to the Speakers A and Speakers B terminals. Toggle [SPK A] to switch ON or OFF the speakers connected to the Speaker A terminals. Toggle [SPK B] to switch ON or OFF the speakers connected to the Speaker B terminals. These button controls do not apply to C 399.

11. TONE DFT: Tone controls are enabled or disabled by pressing this button.

CD PLAYER CONTROL (for use with NAD CD Player): Set the DEVICE SELECTOR to “CD” in order to gain access to these buttons. Some of the control buttons below are applicable only to specific NAD CD Player models; check the owner’s manual of your NAD CD Player for control button compatibility.

• SCAN [7/8]: Fast reverse/forward search.
• Open or close disc tray.
• Stop playback.
• Pause playback temporarily.
• Go to next track/file.
• Go to beginning of current track/file or to previous track/file.[4]: Start playback.
• Select through folder list/Select through WMA/MP3 files. ENTER: Select desired folder or WMA/MP3 file.
• Enter: Show playback time and other display information.
• RAND: Play tracks/files in random order.
• RPT: Repeat track, file or whole disc.
• PROG: Enter or exit program mode.
• CLEAR: Delete programmed track/file.
• CD: Select CD as the active source.
• USB: Select USB as the active source.
• OPT: Select optical input as the active source.
• SRC: Toggle to select desired SRC mode.

TUNER CONTROL (for use with NAD AM/FM/DAB Tuner): Set the DEVICE SELECTOR to “TUN” in order to gain access to these buttons. Refer to the corresponding labels printed in the remote control faceplate and their respective assigned buttons to make use of these functions. Some of the control buttons below are applicable only to specific NAD Receiver or Tuner models; check the owner’s manual of your NAD Receiver or Tuner for control button compatibility.

• AUTO TUNE: In DAB mode, press this button to automatically scan all available local stations. TUNE [7/8] or [A/S]: Step up or down between AM or FM frequencies.
• PRESET []: Step up or down between stored radio presets.
• AM/FM/DAB: Select AM, FM, DAB or XM band (if applicable).
• TUNER MODE: In FM mode, toggle between “FM Mute On” and “FM Mute Off”. In DAB mode, pressing this button will activate Dynamic Range Control (DRC), Station Order or other applicable DAB menu options.
• BLEND: Engage or disengage BLEND feature.
• MEMORY: Save current station into preset memory.
• DELETE: Press and hold for about 2 seconds and the selected preset memory is erased.
• [A/S]: In DAB mode, in combination with TUNER MODE or other compatible buttons, toggle to select through DAB feature options like Dynamic Range Control, Station Order and other appropriate DAB options.
• ENTER: In AM/FM mode, toggle to select Preset or Tune mode. In DAB mode, press and hold to check signal strength.
• INFO: Repeatedly pressing this button will show information as supplied by the current radio station. The applicable display contents include related DAB display information and RDS broadcast data.

BluOS PLAYBACK CONTROLS
Set DEVICE SELECTOR to BLS and the following control buttons are applicable for BluOS playback control.

USING THE SR 9 REMOTE CONTROL LIBRARY
The SR 9 can store a different library of default NAD codes for each of its DEVICE SELECTOR “pages.” If the original default library does not control your NAD CD player, DVD player or other components, follow the procedure below to change the library code. Refer as well to the table below for a list of applicable NAD Library Codes with their corresponding NAD models.

LOAD ANOTHER LIBRARY CODE
Example: Load NAD DVD Player T 517 library codes to SR 9’s “CD” device.

1. Press and hold [CD] in the DEVICE SELECTOR section of SR 9.
2. While holding down the device button (CD), press “2” and “2” using SR 9’s numeric buttons. “22” is the corresponding library code for T 517.
3. Press [ENTER] while still holding down the device button (CD). The CD device selector will flash once to indicate that the library input is successful. Both the device selector button (CD) and [ENTER] can now be released.

RESET THE SR 9 TO ITS DEFAULT SETTINGS
The SR 9 can be restored to its factory settings, including default libraries, by the following procedures

1. Press and hold [ON] and [DELETE/CLEAR] buttons for about 10 seconds until the AMP device button lights up.
2. Within two seconds of the AMP device button lighting up, release both buttons. If the reset mode is successful, the [CD] device button will flash twice.

TABLE OF LIBRARY CODES APPLICABLE TO SR 9 REMOTE CONTROL

buttons
20| Default library for “CD”page; C 515BEE, C 545BEE, C 565BEE
21| T 535, T 585, M55, DVD section of L 54, VISO TWO, VISO FIVE
22| T 513, T 514, T 515, T 517
23| T 587
31| IPD 2
40| Default library for “TUN”page; Tuner section of C 725BEE, T 175, T 737, T 747, T 755, T 765, T 775, T 785
41| C 422, C 425
42| C 445

NOTE: The SR 9 may not necessarily contain all the control buttons applicable for the above-mentioned NAD products. Use the prescribed remote control of the specific NAD product for a full complement of the applicable remote control buttons.

OPERATION

ACCESS MAIN MENU

Press front panel [f] button once for the Main Menu options to appear in the display. Use front panel a or s button to select through the Main Menu options – Settings, Source Setup and System Info.

NAVIGATING THE MENU OPTIONS AND MAKING CHANGES Navigate through the menu options using the front panel buttons or corresponding SR 9 buttons.

1. Press [f] to select a menu item.
2. Repeatedly press [a/s] to scroll through menu choices, options or selections.
3. Press [d] or [ENTER] to select or save current selection or option and at the same time exit or return to the previous menu.

NOTE: Menu option will remain displayed and will only turn off or default to current Source after 1 minute of non-user interface.

SETTINGS

The “Settings” main menu allows the configuration of the following features:

• Tone Control
• Treble
• Bass
• Balance
• Auto Standby
• Bluetooth Mode
• CEC/LAN/BluOS In Standby
• IR Channel
• Dimmer
• Temporary Display
• Speaker
• Volume Display Mode

TONE CONTROL

Tone control allows the boosting or reduction of particular audio frequencies. The tone control levels, Bass and Treble, can be turned on or off.

• On: Tone control levels are active. At Tone Controls On, Bass and Treble control levels are available for configuration.
• Off: Tone controls levels are bypassed. At Tone Controls Off, Bass and Treble control levels become unavailable or turned off from the Settings menu.

BASS, TREBLE, BALANCE

Bass and Treble controls only affect the low bass and high treble leaving the critical midrange frequencies free of coloration.

• Use [a/s] to boost or cut Bass or Treble levels within ±7 dB range. Balance control adjusts the relative levels of the left and right channels.
  Balance control adjusts the relative levels of the left and right channels.

• Press [s] to shift the balance to the right or [a] to shift the balance to the left. Use [a/s] also to recover or even out the balance levels.

• The center level setting provides equal level to the left and right channels.

CEC/LAN/BLUOS IN STANDBY

Status of CEC, LAN and BluOS activity are indicated while the unit is at standby mode.

On: If the optional MDC2 BluOS D is installed, LAN and BluOS connections will continue to be active.
Off: If the optional MDC2 BluOS D is installed, LAN and BluOS connections are idle or inactive.

CEC POWER

CEC Power feature is activated when CEC/LAN/BluOS IN STANDBY is set to On.
HDMI CONTROL (CEC)
Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) is a set of commands that utilizes HDMI’s two- way communication to allow for single remote control of any CEC-enabled devices connected with HDMI. A CEC command will trigger the necessary commands over HDMI for an entire system to auto-configure itself to respond to the command.

Off: CEC feature is disabled. C 399 will not pass through any CEC message.
On: Execute the CEC command. For example, C 399 will automatically go to standby mode if it receives a CEC standby command. On the other hand, if the C 399 receives a CEC power up command, the C 399 will correspondingly switch ON from standby mode.

AUDIO RETURN CHANNEL (ARC)
ARC enables an ARC-enabled TV to send audio data “upstream” to C 399. The C 399 will automatically attempt an ARC audio connection to the TV whenever the TV announces over CEC that it has become the active source. If an ARC connection can be established, the C 399 will output the ARC audio signal no matter what source is selected on the C 399 and will show “HDMI ARC” in the front panel display.

IR CHANNEL

The C 399 has the capability to operate via Alternate IR channel. This is useful if you have two NAD products that can be operated by similar remote control commands. With alternate IR Channel, two different NAD products can be controlled independently in the same zone by setting each one to a different IR channel.
IR Channel Assignment
The C 399 and the SR 9 remote control must be set to the same channel.

To change the IR Channel on the C 399
While at IR Channel menu, use [a/s] to select through Channel 0 to Channel 7. Stop at the preferred IR Channel setting and press [d] to complete the selection. C 399 IR Channel is defaulted to Channel 0.

To change the IR Channel on the SR 9 remote control

• Include a channel number before the library code. For SR 9, library code “10” is the default library table for “AMP” device. To select this “AMP” library table for Channel 0, retain the library code “10” (or “010”).
• If you want to load the “AMP” library table on “Channel 1” prefix the library code with “1” to indicate association with “Channel 1”. Load then the “AMP” library table using the code “110”. Repeat the same for MP (130) and TUNER (140).

SAMPLE SETUP OF TWO NAD PRODUCTS ON THE SAME ZONE

C 399 and T 758 are both defaulted to Channel 0. If [OFF] button is pressed on the SR 9 remote control (or AVR 4 remote control for the T 758), both products will go to standby mode. Press [ON] and both products will power up from standby mode.
To prevent both products from simultaneously going in and out of standby mode along with other common commands, set each one to a different IR channel. In this setup, we will keep T 758 and AVR 4 remote control defaulted to “Channel 0”. As for C 399, we will assign it to “Channel 1”; the same applies to SR 9.
Set C 399 and SR 9 to “Channel 1” via the following procedure.

C 399
While at “IR Channel” menu, use the [a/s] to go to “Channel 1” setting. Press [d] to select “Channel 1”.

SR 9

• Press and hold [AMP] in the DEVICE SELECTOR section of the SR 9.
• While holding down the device button [AMP], press “1”, “1” and “0” using SR 9’s numeric buttons.
• Press [ENTER] while still holding down the device button [AMP]. The AMP device selector will flash once to indicate that the library input is successful.

With both C 399 and SR 9 set to “Channel 1”, the C 399 can now be remotely controlled independent of the T 758.

NOTE: Performing Factory Reset for C 399 or SR 9 will restore their respective IR channel setting to “Channel 0”.

AUTO STANDBY

Auto Standby feature is an integral feature of C 399 that conforms to European ecodesign regulations. The C 399 can be setup to automatically go to standby mode if there is no user interface interaction and no active source input within 20 minutes.

• On: C 399 switches to standby mode at lowest power consumption (less than 0.5W) if there is no user interface interaction and no active source input within 20 minutes.
• Off: C 399 remains at operating mode even if there is no user interface interaction and no active source within 20 minutes.

BLUETOOTH MODE
Bluetooth Mode defines the two roles of the C 399 as either a Bluetooth Sink or a Bluetooth Source.

• Sink: Audio stream is received from a Source on the same Bluetooth network environment.
• Source: Audio is streamed or sent to another device (Sink) on the same Bluetooth network environment.

IMPORTANT!
Bluetooth Mode option is not available if the optional MDC2 BluOS D is installed.

C 399 AS A BLUETOOTH SINK

Set “Bluetooth Mode” to “Sink”. Initiate pairing of your Bluetooth device with C 399 by following below procedure.

1. Ensure that the Bluetooth antenna is connected to the BT antenna terminal at the rear panel.
2. Using your iOS or Android device, go to Settings – Bluetooth and then scan for Bluetooth devices. Select the unique device ID (example, C399BT) of your C 399 as listed or selectable in the device list of your Bluetooth settings. Pair or connect your C 399 and the Bluetooth device.
3. Upon successful pairing of your Bluetooth device and the C 399, front panel display will show the connected Bluetooth device ID (J’s S21 in this example).

C 399 AS A BLUETOOTH SOURCE

Set “Bluetooth Mode” to “Source”. Ensure that the Bluetooth antenna is connected to the BT antenna terminal at the rear panel.

1. While at Bluetooth Source Mode, press ENTER to select “Source Setup”.

2. “Disconnected” will appear in the display. Press ENTER to initiate inquiry (INQUIRE). The unit searches for available Bluetooth devices within the same Bluetooth network environment.
   

3. Toggle a/s to select through available Bluetooth sources. Press to connect and select preferred Bluetooth Source. connect and select preferred Bluetooth Source.If you would like to disconnect from current Bluetooth device, press ENTER to select DISCONNECT. Repeat steps 2 to 3 again to select and connect to another Bluetooth device.

4. Having settled on a Bluetooth Source device, toggle a SOURCE s to select the source media you would like streamed to the connected Bluetooth device. For example, if you want to stream audio from OPTICAL 1, select OPTICAL 1 as the active source. Note the Headphone and Bluetooth icons in the front panel display as indication that you are at Bluetooth Source Mode.

DIMMER

DIMMER function makes it possible to adjust the brightness level of the front panel display.

• Normal: Display brightness level is normal.
• Bright: Display is at its brightest level or above normal brightness level.
• Dim: Display is dimmed or below normal brightness level.

TEMPORARY DISPLAY

Temporary Display feature enables the display to be turned off temporarily after 30 seconds of non-user interface.

• On: Display is turned off temporarily after 30 seconds of non- user interface. The Power Indicator LED is also turned off at the same time. Display and Power Indicator LED are activated once user interface is initiated.
• Off: Display remains illuminated.

SPEAKER

Select “On” to enable speakers or “Off” to disable speakers.

VOLUME DISPLAY MODE

Volume Display Mode gives the user two options on how to display Volume level. Use a or s to select between “Decibel” and “Percent” Volume display mode.

SOURCE SETUP

Source Setup has the following menu items:

• Enable Source
• Name
• Volume Control
• Auto Sense
• Analog Bypass
• Analog Gain

At Source Setup menu, select the particular Source you want to configure.

ENABLE SOURCE

One can enable/disable a Source via this option. This is particularly useful if only few Sources are used thereby bypassing unused sources.

• On: Enable selected Source.
• Off: Disable selected Source.

NAME

A new Name maybe assigned to a Source label. For example, if your BD player is attached to “Optical 1”, it is possible to rename “Optical 1”to “BD Player”.
In order to rename the Source label, select “Name” parameter.

1. While at the selected Source, for example “Optical 1”, press ENTER to select “EDIT”.
2. Use [f/d] to pick through the alphanumeric selections.
3. Press [s] to move to the next character and at the same time save the changes done on the current character. The name can be as long as fourteen characters.
4. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for each character in sequence.
5. Complete the renaming process by pressing [ENTER button again to save the new source’s input name. The new Name will be shown in the display.

VOLUME CONTROL

Volume control can be set to either Variable or Fixed level.
Variable: Volume level is adjusted using the volume knob or SR 9’s [VOL5/6] buttons.

Fixed: Output level is fixed and the C 399’s Volume Control is bypassed. This feature is sometimes referred to as “Cinema Bypass” because it allows the C 399 to be used for the front channels of a surround sound system by relegating the volume control function to the surround processor.

At Fixed volume level setting, front panel display will show “xx.x dB Fixed” as the volume control is adjusted.

HOW TO NAVIGATE VOLUME CONTROL LEVEL SETTING
A While at “Volume Control” menu, press [f].
B Use front panel [a/s] or SR 9’s [A/S] buttons to toggle between “Variable” and “Fixed” level options.

1. While at “Variable” option, use front panel [d] or SR 9’s [D] button to select “Variable” level and return to “Source Setup” menu selections.

2. While at “Fixed” option, use front panel [d] or SR 9’s [D] button to select “Fixed” level and return to “Source Setup” menu selections.

   • With “Fixed” level selected and back to “Source Setup” menu selections, use front panel [a/s] or SR 9’s [A/S] buttons to go
     “Fixed Volume” option. “Fixed Volume” manifests among “Source Setup” options only if “Fixed” is the selected “Volume Control” level.

   • Use [f] button to go to Fixed Volume level setting.

   • Use front panel [a/s] or SR 9’s [A/S] buttons to set preferred dB level setting. Then, use front panel [d] or SR 9’s [D] button to save dB level selection and exit Fixed Volume setup mode.

AUTO SENSE

Auto Sense can be setup for each Source. Auto Sense feature enables the designated Source to wake up from standby mode when an active source is detected from the particular Source’s input.

• On: Unit wakes up to the designated Source from standby mode when an active source is detected from the particular Source’s input.
• Off: Unit does not wake up to the designated Source from standby mode even if it is triggered by an active source.

NOTES

• Auto Sense is not applicable for Phono and BluOS (if installed) sources.
• Auto Standby must be set to ON for Auto Sense to work.

ANALOG BYPASS

All analog signals remain in the analog domain without analog-to-digital conversions.

• On: DSP circuitry is bypassed but full tone control functions remain.
• Off: Analog bypass feature is turned off.

NOTE: Analog Bypass is applicable only for Phono, Line 1 and Line 2 sources.

ANALOG GAIN
Use front panel [a/s] or SR 9’s [A/S] buttons to set preferred Analog Gain level.

SYSTEM INFO

“System Info” displays information about current MCU, LCD and FPGA firmware versions.
Use [a/s] to toggle through the corresponding information.
If the optional MDC2 BluOS D is installed, the BluOS firmware version, IP Address, MAC Address (Ethernet) and MAC Address (Wi-Fi) information are also shown.

UPGRADE AVAILABLE

With the optional MDC2 BluOS D installed and C 399 connected to internet, “Upgrade Available” will be shown if a software upgrade is available.
If “Upgrade Available” is shown, use [f] to go to BluOS upgrade menu. Press [ENTER] to initiate upgrade mode. Internet software upgrade will proceed automatically.

SPECIFICATIONS

All specs are measured according to IHF 202 CEA 490-AR-2008 standard. THD is measured using AP AUX 0025 passive filter and AES 17 active filter.

PREAMPLIFIER SECTION

LINE INPUT, PRE-OUT (Analog bypass on)

• THD (20 Hz – 20 kHz): <0.002 % at 2 V out
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: > 106 dB (IHF; A-weighted, ref. 500 mV out, unity gain)
• Channel separation:

100 dB (1 kHz)
90 dB (10 kHz)

• Input impedance (R and C): 56 kohms + 100 pF

• Maximum input signal: >4.6 Vrms (ref. 0.1 % THD)

• Output impedance: Source Z + 320 ohms

• Input sensitivity: 65 mV (ref. 500 mV out, Volume maximum)

• Frequency response: ±0.3 dB (20 Hz – 20 kHz)

• Maximum voltage output -IHF load:  >5 V (ref. 0.1 % THD)

• The RIAA response is consistent with a pre-emphasis that is rolled off at 50 kHz by a second order filter, such as used in Neumann cutting lathes.
  ** Gross dimension includes feet, volume knob and extended rear panel terminals.
  Specifications are subject to change without notice. For updated documentation and features, please check out www.NADelectronics.com for the latest information about C 399.

www.NADelectronics.com
©2021 NAD ELECTRONICS INTERNATIONAL A DIVISION OF LENBROOK INDUSTRIES LIMITED
All rights reserved. NAD and the NAD logo are trademarks of NAD Electronics International, a division of Lenbrook Industries Limited.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form without the written permission of NAD Electronics International.
While every effort has been made to ensure the contents are accurate at the time of publication, features and specifications may be subject to change without prior notice.
C399-OM-EN-V04 – OCT 2021

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