NAD C 328 Integrated Amplifier and Bluesound Node Music Streamer Bundle User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your NAD C 328 Integrated Amplifier and Bluesound Node Music Streamer bundle. This system is designed to deliver a rich and versatile listening experience by combining a high-performance amplifier with a versatile music streamer.

1.1. Package Contents

Please ensure all items are present before proceeding with setup:

NAD C 328 Integrated Amplifier
Bluesound Node Music Streamer
NAD C 328 Remote Control (with batteries)
Power Cords (for both units)
Stereo RCA Interconnect Cable
Quick Start Guides

NAD C 328 Integrated Amplifier and Bluesound Node Music Streamer side-by-side

Image 1.1: The NAD C 328 Integrated Amplifier (left) and Bluesound Node Music Streamer (right) included in the bundle.

2. Safety Information

Please read all safety instructions before operating the devices. Keep this manual for future reference.

Do not expose the units to rain or moisture.
Do not block ventilation openings.
Ensure proper grounding for all electrical connections.
Unplug the units during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

3. Setup

3.1. NAD C 328 Integrated Amplifier Connections

Before making any connections, ensure both the amplifier and all source components are powered off and unplugged from the mains.

Speaker Connection: Connect your passive speakers to the SPEAKER terminals on the rear panel of the NAD C 328. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -) for both left and right channels.
Source Component Connection (e.g., CD Player, Turntable):
- For analog sources (e.g., CD player), use RCA cables to connect the source's analog output to one of the C 328's LINE INPUTs (e.g., LINE 1, LINE 2).
- For turntables, connect to the PHONO input. Ensure your turntable has a built-in phono preamplifier or use an external one.
- For digital sources, use optical or coaxial cables to connect to the corresponding DIGITAL INPUTs.
Power Connection: Once all audio connections are made, connect the supplied power cord to the AC MAINS input on the rear panel of the NAD C 328, then plug it into a suitable wall outlet.

Front view of the NAD C 328 Integrated Amplifier

Image 3.1: Front panel of the NAD C 328 Integrated Amplifier, showing input selection, volume control, and display.

Rear view of the NAD C 328 Integrated Amplifier

Image 3.2: Rear panel of the NAD C 328 Integrated Amplifier, illustrating speaker terminals, analog and digital inputs, and power connection.

3.2. Bluesound Node Music Streamer Connections

The Bluesound Node connects to the NAD C 328 to provide streaming capabilities.

Audio Connection to NAD C 328: Use the supplied RCA interconnect cable to connect the AUDIO OUT (L/R) of the Bluesound Node to an available LINE INPUT (e.g., LINE 1) on the NAD C 328.
Network Connection:
- Wi-Fi: For wireless connection, ensure your Wi-Fi network is active. The Node will be configured via the Bluesound app.
- Ethernet (Optional): For a wired connection, connect an Ethernet cable from your router to the LAN/USB port on the Bluesound Node.
Power Connection: Connect the supplied power cord to the AC input on the Bluesound Node, then plug it into a suitable wall outlet.

Front view of the Bluesound Node Music Streamer

Image 3.3: Front panel of the Bluesound Node Music Streamer, featuring its minimalist design and status indicator.

Rear view of the Bluesound Node Music Streamer

Image 3.4: Rear panel of the Bluesound Node Music Streamer, showing audio outputs, network ports, and power input.

3.3. Initial Power On and Network Setup (Bluesound Node)

Power on both the NAD C 328 and the Bluesound Node.
Download the Bluesound Controller app from your device's app store (iOS, Android, Windows, macOS).
Follow the in-app instructions to connect your Bluesound Node to your home Wi-Fi network. This typically involves selecting your Node from a list of available players and entering your Wi-Fi password.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. NAD C 328 Basic Operation

Power On/Off: Press the power button on the front panel or the remote control.
Input Selection: Use the SOURCE buttons on the front panel or the remote to select the desired input (e.g., LINE 1 for the Bluesound Node, PHONO for a turntable). The selected input will be shown on the display.
Volume Control: Adjust the MASTER VOLUME knob on the front panel or use the VOLUME +/- buttons on the remote control.
Tone Controls: If available, use the BASS and TREBLE controls to adjust the tonal balance.

4.2. Bluesound Node Music Streaming

The Bluesound Node is primarily controlled via the Bluesound Controller app.

Launch the App: Open the Bluesound Controller app on your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
Select Player: Ensure your Bluesound Node is selected as the active player within the app.
Browse Music: Access various music services (e.g., Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz), internet radio, or your local music library through the app's interface.
Playback Control: Use the app for playback controls such as play, pause, skip tracks, and volume adjustment (though it's recommended to control overall system volume via the NAD C 328).

5. Maintenance

Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surfaces of both units. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols.
Ventilation: Ensure that the ventilation openings on both units are not obstructed to prevent overheating.
Cable Connections: Periodically check all cable connections to ensure they are secure.

6. Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
No power to unit	Power cord not connected; outlet not active.	Check power cord connection; test outlet with another device.
No sound from speakers	Incorrect input selected; speaker cables loose; volume too low; source not playing.	Select correct input on NAD C 328; check speaker connections; increase volume; ensure source is playing.
Bluesound Node not connecting to network	Incorrect Wi-Fi password; router issues; Node too far from router.	Re-enter Wi-Fi password in app; restart router; move Node closer to router or use wired Ethernet.
Distorted sound	Overdriven input; faulty cables; speaker impedance mismatch.	Reduce source volume; check/replace cables; ensure speakers are compatible with amplifier.

7. Specifications