NAD CI8-120 DSP V2 8 channel Power Amplifier

CI 8-120 DSP V2 8-channel power amplifier

Key features

• 8 x 120 watts continuous output power at 8 O
• Bridge circuit for 4 x 300 watts continuous output power at 8 Ω
• Typical NAD amplifier sound characteristics
• 4 stereo high-level inputs
• Two analog, cross-channel stereo RCA inputs and outputs each ("Global")
• Configuration and calibration via web-based user interface
• Speaker connection via PHOENIX terminals
• 12-volt trigger input
• IR input/output
• Prepared for 19" rack mounting
• Height: 1U
• Easy handling of long cable runs and larger speaker loads
• Low power consumption (0.5 W standby, 3 W network standby)
• Automatic switch-on with signal detection

The NAD CI 8-120 DSP V2 is a powerful 8-channel amplifier specifically designed for demanding custom installation and multi-room audio systems. It combines NAD's signature sound with high reliability and impressive performance – ideal for hi-fi enthusiasts and professional installations where precision and stability are crucial.

With a continuous output power of 8 x 120 watts into 8 ohms, the amplifier offers ample reserves for a wide variety of speaker configurations. In bridged mode, up to 4 x 300 watts are available, while short-term peak power of up to 350 watts per channel is even possible. This makes the CI 8-120 DSP V2 suitable for demanding setups with high-powered speakers or complex sound reinforcement scenarios.

At the heart of the amplifier is a specially adapted version of the proven Hypex UcD technology. This digital hybrid amplifier architecture ensures extremely low distortion, minimal noise floor, and high current delivery – even with long cable runs and challenging loads, as are common in installation environments. The result is controlled, dynamic, and detailed sound across all channels.

Despite its high power density, the CI 8-120 DSP V2 is remarkably compact: The device only requires one rack unit in a 19-inch rack and can therefore be integrated into existing systems in a space-saving manner.

Another focus is on flexible and convenient setup. The amplifier can be fully configured and calibrated via a web-based user interface. The integrated DSP allows for precise adjustment of the sound to the room and speakers, while status indicators for temperature and power, as well as functions such as reset, firmware updates, and remote control, significantly simplify installation and maintenance.

The extensive range of connections, including four stereo high-level inputs, global RCA inputs and outputs, Phoenix speaker terminals, 12-volt triggers, and IR interfaces, underscores the professional nature of the device. This is complemented by practical features such as automatic power-on with signal detection and very low standby power consumption.

The NAD CI 8-120 DSP V2 is therefore the ideal solution for anyone looking for a powerful, flexible and sonically convincing amplifier concept for modern, networked audio installations.

Technical data

Output power (line input)

• At 8 O
  • 8 x 120 W (20 Hz – 20 kHz, at specified distortion, all channels driven)
  • 2 x 130 W (two channels controlled)
• At 4 O
  • 8 x 135 W (all channels driven)
  • 2 x 230 W (two channels controlled)
• Bridge circuit at 8 O
  • 4 x 200 W (all channels driven)
  • 2 x 320 W (two channels controlled)

Distortion & Power

• THD (1 – 100 W, 4 and 8 O): < 0.05% (20 Hz – 20 kHz)
• Clipping power (all channels): > 130 W (1 kHz, 8 Ω, 0.1% THD)
• Clipping power (bridge mode, 8 Ω):

300 W (all channels driven)

400 W (two channels controlled)

Impulse power

• All channels controlled
  • 125 W at 8 O
  • 200 W at 4 O
  • 180 W at 2 O
• Two channels controlled
  • 145 W at 8 O
  • 260 W at 4 O
  • 300 W at 2 O
• Bridge mode (all channels activated)
  • 440 W at 8 O
  • 350 W at 4 O
  • 230 W at 2 O
• Bridge mode (two channels controlled)
  • 480 W at 8 O
  • 380 W at 4 O
  • 300 W at 2 O

Further performance data

• Maximum output current: > 20 A (1 Ω, 1 ms)
• Damping factor: > 110 (8 Ω, 50 – 6,500 Hz)

Input & Signal Processing

• Input sensitivity: 1.15 V (for 120 W at 8 Ω)
• Maximum undistorted input level: 2.9 V
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±0.5 dB)
• Channel separation:

70 dB (1 kHz)

65 dB (10 kHz)

• Signal-to-noise ratio (A-weighted): > 88 dB

Control & Operation

• Input level for automatic switch-on: 3 ±0.5 mVrms
• Trigger input level: 3 – 30 V DC
• Standby power consumption: < 0.5 W

General data

• Dimensions (W x H x D): 483 x 45 x 435 mm
• Height: 1U
• Weight: 10 kg
• Dimensions including feet, controls and connections