NAD CI-980

The NAD CI-980 is an 8-channel power amplifier designed for custom installations and distributed audio systems. It delivers 50 watts per channel into 8 ohms with all channels operating simultaneously, according to NAD’s Full Disclosure Power (FDP) methodology. It is also compatible with 4-ohm loads and offers a bridged mode delivering up to 120 watts. The CI-980 is designed to adapt to a variety of audio configurations.

Advanced Technical Architecture and Sophisticated Electronic Design

The CI-980 is based on high-efficiency switching amplification technology, representing an innovative approach within NAD’s custom installation range. This architecture allows the device to operate exceptionally cool despite its power density, while significantly reducing energy consumption. The custom toroidal transformer at the heart of the power supply maintains very low impedance, ensuring a damping factor above 150 for precise speaker control.

The internal organization into four stereo zones offers remarkable flexibility. Each pair of channels can operate completely independently or be bridged to double the available power. Sophisticated protection circuits continuously monitor each zone, with dedicated LED indicators signaling clipping or protection activation. This constant monitoring is accompanied by comprehensive protection against short circuits and overheating, with automatic reactivation once the issue is resolved.

The cooling system deserves special mention. Instead of a fan running continuously, NAD has opted for thermostatically controlled forced ventilation. The front air vents optimize airflow in rack configurations, allowing multiple CI-980 units to be stacked without risk of overheating. This intelligent thermal management contributes to the device’s exceptional longevity while minimizing noise in listening areas.

Connectivity and System Integration Designed for the Installer

Phoenix connectors for speaker outputs are a deliberate choice to simplify installation. These detachable terminal blocks accept 12 to 24 AWG cables, making wiring both quick and reliable. Each zone features independent RCA inputs and outputs with loop-through functionality, allowing multiple amplifiers to be daisy-chained without multiplying sources.

The global/local selector is a particularly clever feature. In global mode, all zones can share a single source via the global input, perfect for synchronized playback in multiple rooms. In local mode, each zone becomes fully autonomous with its own source. Independent gain controls for each channel allow precise system balancing, compensating for speaker sensitivity differences or cable length variations.

The trigger system illustrates the attention to integration details. Three activation modes coexist: the front button for manual intervention, 12V DC triggering compatible with most preamplifiers and home theater processors, and automatic signal detection. The latter function incorporates a sophisticated music detection circuit that avoids false triggers caused by RF interference or ground loops—a recurring issue with conventional detection systems.

Sound Performance and NAD Philosophy

NAD applies its Full Disclosure Power methodology to the CI-980, a much more rigorous power measurement approach than conventional FTC standards. While most manufacturers specify their amplifiers with a single channel driven at 1 kHz into 8 ohms, NAD measures with all channels active simultaneously, across the full 20 Hz to 20 kHz bandwidth, and with total harmonic distortion below 0.03%. This transparency in specifications reflects real-world usage conditions rather than optimized laboratory scenarios.

The signal-to-noise ratio exceeds 100 dB at rated power, ensuring remarkable background silence. This feature is especially important with high-efficiency speakers in small spaces, where even the slightest residual noise becomes audible. The frequency response extends from 20 Hz to 20 kHz with a maximum variation of ±1 dB, ensuring faithful reproduction across the entire audible spectrum.

The amplifier’s ability to handle difficult loads is worth highlighting. Not only does the CI-980 remain stable at 4 ohms, but it can also support long cable runs without significant performance degradation. This robustness in the face of complex loads stems directly from the oversized power supply architecture and the output topology using multiple high-current discrete power devices.

Rack Installation and Practical Considerations

The 2U format (89 mm high) with included rack ears optimizes the use of valuable rack space. Weighing only 5.72 kg, the CI-980 remains remarkably light for its power, greatly facilitating handling during installation. This lightness is a direct result of the switching amplification technology, which eliminates the massive transformers found in traditional class AB amplifiers.

The universal power supply accepting 100 to 240 V is particularly relevant for marine and avionics installations where voltages may vary. Standby consumption below 0.5 W demonstrates NAD’s ecological commitment, especially appreciated in setups with multiple amplifiers.

The depth of 323 mm remains reasonable for most standard racks, while the width of 483 mm matches the 19-inch rack standard exactly. Rear connections are logically organized, with audio inputs/outputs grouped by zone and Phoenix speaker connectors easily accessible.

Synergy with the NAD Ecosystem and Compatibility

The CI-980 naturally pairs with the NAD CI-580 V2 streamer, creating a particularly elegant high-resolution multiroom solution. The CI-580 V2 brings BluOS technology with its four independent streaming zones, perfectly aligned with the CI-980’s four stereo zones. This combination allows the creation of a distributed audio system managing up to 64 zones with unified control via the BluOS app.

Integration with NAD home theater receivers T 758 V3i and T 778 opens up additional possibilities. The preamp outputs of these devices can feed the CI-980 to extend effect channels or create a second listening zone. This flexibility allows a system to be gradually adapted as needs evolve, without replacing existing equipment.

Compatibility with home automation systems is also worth mentioning. Although the CI-980 itself does not feature direct IP control, its association with BluOS streamers enables full integration into Control4, Crestron, RTI, and URC systems via the BluOS public API.

Technical Specifications

Audio Features

• Configuration: 8 independent channels (4 stereo zones)
• Continuous power:
  • 50 W per channel at 8 Ω (all channels driven simultaneously)
  • 60 W per channel at 4 Ω
  • 120 W in bridged mode at 8 Ω (4 bridged channels)
• Total harmonic distortion: < 0.03%
• Signal-to-noise ratio: > 80 dB (1 W / 8 Ω), > 100 dB (50 W / 8 Ω)
• Damping factor: > 150 (8 Ω)
• Input sensitivity: 1.1 V (for rated power)
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz ±1 dB
• Inaudible background noise for use with efficient speakers in small spaces

Connectivity and Control

• 4 stereo RCA inputs with loop-through
• Global input/output with selector
• Input gain control for each zone
• Selectable stereo / mono / bridged modes per zone
• Triggering:
  • Automatic signal detection with auto shut-off
  • 12 V trigger (DC)
• LED indicators for each zone: protection and clipping
• Thermostatic fan cooling with front air vents

Installation and Power Supply

• 2U rack format (89 mm height) with mounting ears included
• Phoenix speaker connection block (simple and reliable connection)
• Universal power supply (100-240 V), suitable for marine and avionics installations
• Very low standby consumption: < 0.5 W
• Maximum power consumption: 600 W
• Full protection against short circuits and overheating with automatic reset
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 483 x 105 x 323 mm
• Net weight: 5.72 kg

Benefits and Applications

• Warm, musical sound true to NAD’s reputation
• Reliability and robustness for worry-free installation
• Ability to drive low-impedance speakers and long cables
• Easy integration thanks to multiple trigger options and compact rack format
• Quiet operation (low background noise and efficient thermostatic cooling)
• Ideal for high-performance multiroom or multi-zone systems
• Recommended uses:
  • Multi-room distributed audio systems
  • Integrations in marine or avionics environments
  • Multiroom extensions in combination with NAD CI 580 V2 or Bluesound NODE streamers
  • Speaker amplification in home, commercial, or professional installations