NAD C316BEE Integrated Amplifier with Phono Review

NAD C316BEE Integrated Amplifier

When you talk about the high-end amplifiers anywhere in the world, the NAD products will always stand out especially the new c316bee integrated amplifier. The NAD C 316BEEs Integrated Amplifier is a series of the most recent integrated amplifier with amazing headphone output and sound stage. I have owned four of the amplifiers since their first release.

When I want a go-to budget-friendly amp, these are the products I always turn to. Many manufacturers today only focus on the latest features, and in the process, sacrificing sound. I love these NAD amps because they offer the best power solution, finesse, and simplicity. And each time I let one-off, it always reminds me of how much they have helped me grow. 

My recent review focused on the NAD C316BEE stereo integrated amp, the original version. In our Amplifier review, I will be talking about its upgraded version – NAD 316BEE V2. Think about this amp as a well-designed affordable amp. But that is not all; it is also a product that will give you the audiophilia satisfaction you need.

About the product

NAD C316BEE Amplifier
NAD C316BEE Amplifier

If you come across the NAD C 316BEE before, you will know what this amp is all about. The most significant difference with the NAD C 316BEE integrated is the addition of a new phono stage.

Due to the demand from consumers to add this feature, their company listened and made adjustments for the NAD c 316bee v2. Most people loved the NAD c316bee v2 stereo integrated amp, but those who enjoyed their vinyl records had only a few options. Now they can smile knowing there is a NAD C 316BEE Integrated Amplifier with a phono stage that incorporates the retro vinyl records. 

With this addition, I think NAD will reclaim its glory in the audiophile market as one of the most practical options for those seeking their first amplifier, especially with their latest 316 bee nad integrated amplifier. My days working with the entry-level audio products are long gone. But I find it easy returning to the time when simplicity mattered. For the past few weeks, I have enjoyed a blissfully captivating audio output without too many complications. I will base this NAD C 316BEE integrated equipment review mostly on the comparison with the version without a phono stage.

Features

NAD C316BEE Integrated Amplifier
NAD C316BEE Integrated Amplifier

Build

If you come across the NAD C 316BEE before, you will know what this amp is all about. The most significant difference with the NAD C 316BEE is the addition of a new phono stage. 

Due to the demand from consumers to add this feature, NAD listened and made adjustments. Most people loved the C 316BEE, but those who enjoyed their vinyl records had only a few options. Now they can smile knowing there is a NAD C316BEE Integrated Amplifier with a phono stage that incorporates the retro vinyl records. 

With this addition, I think NAD will reclaim its glory in the audiophile market as one of the most practical options for those seeking their first amplifier. My days working with the entry-level audio products are long gone. But I find it easy returning to the time when simplicity mattered. For the past few weeks, I have enjoyed a blissfully captivating audio output without too many complications. I will base this NAD C316BEE review mostly on the comparison with the version without a phono stage.

Functionality

The first thing I noticed from the box, apart from the design, was the power code. You cannot remove or upgrade it, so you may want to ensure your devices are well taken care of. Also, the unit calls for a grounded AC receptor or a separate earth ground. This is because grounding through any power cord alone will not work well.

NAD is transparent enough with all the features of their products. They have included all the information on the backside of the chassis. There is a main switch directly below the junction of the power cord. Many users go for the standby mode button on the front side and never realize the mains switch, hence it remains more of a ‘vacation switch.

Using standby mode will help you save a lot of power when you are not playing any music. The device draws less than 1 watt of power in this mode. To me, this is new to the V2 versions of the C 316BEE series. I have never seen any other component that draws such conservative electrical power in the stand mode. And for a year, NAD has never shied away from displaying the green printed logo next to the mains. 

There is more at the back of the C 316BEE V2. It may not be of much significance, but the amp comes with the usual warning and hazard labels. The specific designation of design and manufacturing locations is all presented in black and white. It is designed and assembled at companies’ international headquarters in Ontario, Canada. Nevertheless, it follows NAD’s strict specifications in China. Such information losses are detrimental as time goes by. I recall the last time I even looked at such info. And perhaps in the future, it will be viewed more negatively. 

Near the back panel center, there is one set of right and left five-way binding posts. Perhaps the company has tried to save more on adding a set of speaker outputs. But the truth is, most consumers only run one set of speakers on the amp. Another reason for this design could because consumers don’t understand the minimal speaker impedance for using any speaker. The NAD 316BEE v2 is rated with a minimum of 4 ohms out of the single pair of its speaker output.

To the far end, you get the moving magnet phono stage input. It is characterized by two pairs of line-level inputs that are color-coded with and white for easy identification. Also, these inputs correspond with the front panel in a mirrored approach. In other words, the input jacks are all set in perfect alignment.

Other notable features

There are a few refines on the aesthetics that are not on the previous version. They are all a bonus that serves the best functionality needs. First, the venting has been upgraded, though many will not notice it. They are still confined to the four rows running from front to back. However, in the V2, they are further subdivided into eight rounded segments. This means you no longer have to work with the previous version. The chassis has been tightened using eight recessed hex-head screws. This makes it more secure.

There are not many changes in the middles. Even with the inclusion of a phono, it has been relabeled to read ‘phono’ instead of a disc. Another change comes with the rounded edges that sweep a smooth radius around the sides of the V2. This was not in the previous version, and it never looked right. The controls haven’t changed either. It comes with the bass, treble and balanced knobs in the same position, and a ‘Defeat’ button. The volume control has been upgraded for better sensitivity. A simple toggle of this button gets you through other features.

Sound

NAD C316BEE Integrated Amp
NAD C316BEE Integrated Amp

I have always been very keen on how amplifiers sound. And the NAD 316BEE V2 did not disappoint. My connection to the U-Turn Orbit Basic produced a high-quality noise-free sound.

This c 316bee turned out to be more open to and detailed across different dynamics. The phono stage works nicely with grace, speed, and immediacy. The NAD c 316BEE is everything you can ask for in such a device. Nad electronics has built an incredible power output and inputs using 40 watts per channel for amazing sound quality for their 316bee model.

For speakers, I used the NAD 316BEE V2 integrated amp with the KEF Q100s, and it paired immediately. The music that came out was much livelier than I had initially thought. The digital domain does not disappoint either. I connected my Marantz SA8001 CD player and realized this amp could be in a higher class of products. The sound clarity was amazing. It comes with an inbuilt headphone amplifier that produces rich bass and distinct vocals. All instruments came out as clear when listening to the recording.

Pros

  • Incredible design
  • Phono stage
  • Simple functions
  • Stereo integrated 40 watts per channel
  • Amplifier nad is a reputable brand

Cons

  • It does not have the transparency of the best product

Verdict

A lot is happening in the world of integrated amplifiers today. NAD is one of the top manufacturers that have been serving the market for a long time and their rights reserved since 1972 . And their C 316BEE V2 does not disappoint. It comes at the same price as its predecessor, but offers more value for the money spent. It has improved on their functionality offering better volume control specs, remote control access and premium sound stage to block out noise and make this a surround sound system.

 

 

Roland TD-1K Electronic Drum Kit Review

What is the hardest thing to do when it comes to buying an electronic drum set? Well, for many people, it’s the high price tag on these kits.

I have been in such a situation many times. The thought of spending a lot of money sends me back to my acoustic kits.

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No one would think you are wrong for doing such things. After all, e-kits don’t sound usually sound a good as their authentic counterparts.

Traditional pads don’t just have the tone and goodness of real drums – if you know what I mean.

But then, something changed inside of me a few years ago, and I decided to give it a try, thanks to Roland s V drums quality.

The company has really tried to bring out the authenticity of real drums in their e-kits. And now you can get one that feels and sounds as good.

One such product is the entry-level Roland TD1KV. It has set new standards in the realm of affordable electronic drums.

It is not just a quality product; it is also priced at the most convenient level. This means you get to enjoy the benefits of high-quality kits at low prices.

In this guide, I will be discussing:

  • The goodness and limitations of the Roland TD1-KV
  • Its comparison with other kits from Alesis and Yamaha at the same price range.

Come along.

Roland TD-1K Review

Roland is not a new brand in the market of electronic drum sets. It is easily the best company you will find out there.

When Roland introduced V-drums, they marked a whole new territory for themselves. And now these are the most popular kits around.

Ask anyone about the best e-drum kits, and they will not fail to mention Roland’s V-Drums.

The Roland TD-1K features among the best electronic drum sets from the manufacturer at affordable prices. The kit is made perfect for any modern drummer who needs genuine sounds without breaking the bank.

Who is the kit for?

There is no doubt that Roland makes the best drum kits. And even though their products are priced higher than other brands, it would be worth your investment.

The Roland TD-1K is not the best you can get from the manufacturer. It is designed to offer and affordable solution.

It is a good kit for any drummer:

Beginners

One good thing about entry-level kits is that they don’t have to be too expensive. But that does not also mean they should be poor in quality.

This one kit a beginner will find very convenient. It comes with everything you need to start playing right from the box.

Also, the drum kit is straightforward to assemble, which makes it ideal for learners. It is constructed with the best quality to withstand an aggressive beating. Hence, it will serve you for a long time before you think about getting a new one.

Experienced drummers

As an experienced drummer, you probably own a high acoustic and electronic kit that you use for gigging.

However, you still want to practice from home. Or perhaps run through your gig offstage before the real action.

For this reason, you should have a cheap kit. This is where the Roland TD-1K can come in handy.

Besides, you want to keep your real kit from damages that can happen from constant use. Instead, have a practice kit like the TD 1K at home just in case you need one.

Parents

If you are a parent who wants to surprise their kits with a perfect birthday present, this should be a good product. Perhaps you have noticed their interest in drums, and you wish to support their dreams.

It is not overly expensive, so it should be just fine. Roland has never disappointed when it comes to offering the best quality.

Configuration

When I first opened the TD 1K electronic drum set in this review, I was not sure it had everything as advertised. Sometimes I fear shopping from online stores.

But I was glad that my dealer was genuine.

The kit came configured with:

  • One strong drum rack with a quick in and easy to adjust the height. Hence, good for all drummers
  • One mesh head PDX-8 snare pad
  • A beater-less kick drum pedal
  • A beater-less hi-hat pedal
  • Three rubber tom-toms
  • TD-KV electronic drum brain
  • Three pairs of sticks
  • One audio cable
  • A piece of cloth for polishing

As you can see, it comes with everything you need to start using.

Features

The first thing I noticed about the Roland TD 1K is the small footprint it leaves. It measures 37 by 18 by 12 inches, which makes it easy to transport.

It is also easy on your budget, and yet very good in terms of quality and functionality. The hi-hat is my favorite/

I also noticed that the frame that holds the components is very sturdy. Most beginner sets do not have such quality hardware, which keeps Roland at the top of the list.

It is easy and sweet to play on. The mesh snare head assures a different rebound and feel. It is not only realistic but comfortable too.

You will also like the kick and hi-hat pedal on the TD K1 electronic drum set. They are very easy to position, so any player can use them.

Also, the hi-hat and kick pedals have a great rebound, which makes every stroke count. It makes you feel the elaborate rhythms from every pad.

You can adjust the tension on the hi-hat, letting you play the perfect sound. And you don’t even have to struggle to do this. Simply touch the pedal without hitting the hat, and you get a different tone.

It creates sound from the cymbal’s top and bottom sides as if they are hitting each other. I am sure a lot of drummers will be satisfied with this quality.

Another aspect you will love is the choke-able ride and crash cymbals. And the ride gives out a bell sound when hit more aggressively.

Above everything, it is the mesh snare and the bass pedal that stand out. They are velocity-sensitive components, which is music to the ear of every drummer.

Play soft, and you will get a soft sound. Or play harder, and the kit will surprise you with a warm volume.

When I was trying it out, my curiosity led me to discover 15 very useful sound kit options on the module. They are of good quality and most of them very current.

But if you think these kits are not enough, adding custom kits through a USB connection is an option. It works with most DAWs, so this should not be a problem.

Electronic drums are all about experimenting with different options. And they TD-1K delivers than need.

You can use them for specific types of gigs. But for me, it is all about silent practice, where I find them very convenient. Hence, this drum set will be the perfect solution if you don’t want to disturb your family members.

As if that is not enough, you can still use it for intensive performance.

Connecting this kit to headphones lets, you play nicely even if kids are sleeping in the same room.

Roland TD-1K Electronic Drum set construction

I have used a lot of e-kits over the past few years. Hence, I know that having a reliable product is very important.

It is not worth anything having a super cool kit that cannot withstand an aggressive and constant beating. It would be best if you had something reliable for your endless practice sessions.

The Roland TD-1K is a portable kit that consumes a very small space. You can move the components around to let other players on board.

I used the Roland TD 1K in the most intense situation because I needed to know how much it can hand. It did not disappoint.

The Drum Pad

The rack toms and the floor toms on this kit are made from gum rubber. This is why they respond well, and hence, easy on your hands and wrists.

Some older e-drums pads have callous rubber pads, which are not very comfortable on your hands. Rubber pads are known for causing pain when you plain with bare hands, unlike a real drum kit, which is gentler.

The snare drum features a mesh head, which makes it more useful. One can adjust the tension to get the right tones.

The Module

Now to the most important part of any e-drum set – the module. The one on the Roland TD-1K comes with different useful functions.

First, it features 15 different kit sound options from a different genre. This feature is made more useful with a metronome, allowing you to play along with your favorite tones.

Record what you have played and listen to it later. This is all thanks to the coach function. This function can come in an experienced drummer as it lets you check your meter.

The module also features an easy time setting and Drop Out setting, which indicates where you are on the beat. Students will find this function very useful.

Pros

  • Compact and portable
  • 15 built-in kit sounds
  • Easy to set up
  • Durable
  • Good connectivity

Cons

  • Resistance on the bass and hi-hat pedals can be frustrating for more advanced drummers
  • You cannot adjust volumes for the drums and the music separately when played together
  • The mesh heads cannot withstand brushes

Alesis Nitro Mesh kit vs Yamaha DTX402K vs Roland TD-1K

Electronic drum sets have come a long way. And now it is very easy to find and affordable option, thanks to the advancement in the industry as witnessed over the past few years.

It was very hard to practice drums when space and noise were involved. But today, we can smile that there are lots of options to choose from.

It is amazing what $500 can get you today.

Alesis Nitro mesh kit, Yamaha DTX402K, and Roland TD-1K are the three top choices in this price range.

I was able to try out each of the kits, and I must admit manufacturers are really trying. Getting the winner was not easy.

The Alesis Nitro mesh kit delivers a semi-real feel, Yamaha’s D402 module offers the most apps, while the Roland is all about elegance and pedigree.

This makes it hard for anyone drummer to choose one. They are all good in their own rights, and each has something unique to offer.

Specifications

The Alesis Nitro Mesh Kit is configured with:

  • One dual-zone 8-inch mesh snare
  • Three 8-inch single-zone mesh tomes
  • Three 10-inch cymbals
  • A kick drum tower and pedal
  • Integrated hat pedal
  • A module with 40 kits, 385 sounds, stereo in/out, Aux-in, USB MIDI out, 5-pin MIDI in/out.

The Yamaha DTX402K comes with:

  • Four single-zone 8-inch rubber pads on snare and toms
  • Three 10-inch cymbals one for the hi-hat
  • Beater-less kick drum pedal
  • Integrated hi-hat controller pedal
  • A drum module with ten kits, 287 sound, stereo headphones out, aux in, USB MIDI out

The Roland TD-1K features:

  • Four single-zone rubber toms,
  • One mesh snare pad
  • Three cymbals
  • Beater-less kick drum pedal
  • Integrated hi-hat pedal
  • Drum module with 15 kits, stereo headphone out, aux in, USB MIDI out

In terms of configuration, I would say the Alesis has won the day. The mesh heads, many kits, and sounds, and different connections on the module makes it an ideal drum kit for any drummer.

Build

Electronic drums are very useful in terms of portability and silence. But they also have the limitation of getting spoiled easily, especially when played with sticks.

However, I was very surprised at the quality products, $500 can get you from the three top manufactures. The e-drum manufacturing quality has greatly improved, and it’s not hard to see this.

The pads, racks, and pedals of these kits are designed to withstand hard times for many years. They come with the best construction to offer incredible services to the user.

On one side, the Roland carries a tree-style rack. This might not be as sturdy as the multi-post frames on the Alesis and Yamaha. But you will be surprised at how sturdy it gets in the action.

Another important aspect to consider when looking at the build quality of e-drums is the pads’ materials. Alesis has included all-mesh pads, which brings you even close to real acoustic drums.

But this does not mean the Roland and the Yamaha are any bad. Their rubber pads are just as effective.

For instance, Roland TD 1K has use gum rubber on the toms, which is softer than traditional rubber. The snare features a mesh material, which makes it stand out from the other components.

The Alesis Nitro Mesh kit comes with a standalone pedal, which most drummers will find very interesting as well.

These featured don’t have to be the decider, but you must agree they are quite attractive. They make all the difference.

I cannot fail to say something about the three modules. They come housed in plastic casings, and they are not complicated.

Features

This is perhaps the most crucial aspect of e-drums that most drummers look for. And in this case, each kit has something to be proud of.

Alesis’s Nitro mesh heads and the kick tower sets it apart from the other kits. But it appears to have some limitations concerning the noises it makes.

This kit carries 385 onboard sounds in 40 editable drum kits. You have more than 287 sounds and 10 kits on the DTX402, while you cannot edit the 15 kits on the TD-1K. This is where Roland seems to have lost the battle.

However, you may only need one or two kits from any of these drum sets. Or, if you need more, you can try running them from a software drum kit on your laptop.

You don’t need to put too much weight on the kits and sounds with this in mind. The TD-1K may have a few kits, but they are arguably the best you can get out there.

Connectivity is another crucial aspect of e-drum kits. It determines the performance that drummers record as MIDI using software like DAW.

You can improve the sounds greatly once triggered, allowing you to make good tuned. Connecting to tools like Superior Drummer 3’s Toontracks or BFD3 from FXpansion offers a wide range of useful features.

The three kits all come with MIDI to USB connection. Alesis Nitro Mesh hosts 5-pin MIDI DIN socket ins and outs. Yamaha’s DTX 402K allows sending audio through the USB port.

Other connections, including stereo headphones out and AUX minijack, are ubiquitous. Alesis has added them on the Nitro Mesh for connection to amps.

These three kits are built for beginners. Hence, you will find coach functions in each, helping you improve different aspects of your drumming.

Playability

As you would expect, the Nitro Mesh offers a more natural feel and sound due to the mesh pads. They are superior to the rubber pads.

Roland has upgraded the TD-1K with a mesh snare and gum rubber on the toms and cymbals. This makes them sound better.

With that said, do not think rubber pads on the DTX402K and TD-1K are not any good. You can get them to sound amazingly good.

The pads are well-calibrated with dynamic ranges, responsive pedals, and dual-zone choke-able cymbals. You will love how responsive they are.

Verdict

Which of these three electronic drum kits should you go for? They all have similar features and retail at the same price.

Everything from configuration to build quality to the I/O seems to agree. While none can pass real kits, they can give you a good performance.

In my opinion, you should go for the mesh heads. They have clearer tonic purity, all at a great price. But then, it all depends on what you find more convincing.

 

Best Drum Shops in Cardiff in [currentyear]

Arcadia Birch T6 Black Set

Every drummer knows that finding the right shops for their gear is important. There may be a lot of drum shops in one area, but only a few will have what you need.

One way to know a good store is by checking their products. Shops that sell drums exclusively are more like to have better stuff.

But that does not mean any other shops would not be good. There are some with multiple products but have a dedicated space for drums and related products.

In that case, you should consider the experience of the shops. If they have been around for a long time, it’s a good reason to trust them.

Cardiff is one city that has so many shops. Like any other city in the UK, its industry is quite advanced.

We will be discussing some good shops found in this city.

CARDIFF MUSIC SHOP

One thing you need to understand is that every drum store in Cardiff is unique. They all share the characteristic of stocking only top-quality products.

Here are some of the best musical instrument shops around:

PMT

pmt-cardiff

Professional Music Technology (PMT) is one of the most popular names in the UK. The stores carry all the top technologies in the drumming industry.

PMT is not like any other stores around. It’s set on a 5000 square ft with a wide array of musical instruments.

Every floor is filled with the latest gear. You will get every component, from guitars, bass, amps, drums, cymbals, studio and recording equipment, PA, and DJ stuff.

But it the more intriguing drums section. A whole floor is dedicated to a wide array of gear.

You will love being in this store for all your drumming gear needs.

Gamlin’s Music

gamlins-music-cardiff

Gamlin’s Music has some of the best musical instruments in Cardiff. This center is known for selling top-quality gear, and they have held that position for a long time.

Do you need quality drums, cymbals, drumheads, hardware, and accessories? This is one shop you should not miss visiting. And their price is among the best.

Penarth Music Centre

penarth-music-centre-cardiff

If you require great gear on the market to improve your kits, Penarth Music Centre is the solution. Think of all the latest and vintage musical instruments from top manufacturers. This store makes music come to life, with available products.

The impressive part about it is the kind of customer service offered. They make you feel like you will never want another music store in your life

• Only Drums Aloud

only-drums-aloud-cardiff

Here is another store that does not disappoint. It is dedicated to selling drums, which means you get everything you require to set your ideal piece.

Also, they provide drum lessons and rehearsals. Therefore, you will not only be buying drums but learning from the best too.

DRUM SHOP CARDIFF

The PMT Drum Shop in Cardiff is a very special place for all drummers. First, it is the first-ever Welsh PMT store. Also, it carries their vert first underground drums shop.

Visit what they call “The Drum Cave” for the most amazing experience. From here, you are free to try out different pieces.

Try different products

Check out incredible 5-piece kits from Tama, Mapex, DW, Natal, Ludwig, and Sonor, among other top brands. That is not all; you will find all the latest e-drum kits from Roland, Yamaha, and Alesis.

The shop is a haven for every modern drummer. All the drums come from top manufacturers, both acoustic and electronic. For that, you have one more reason to trust PMT.

All the sets are ready for testing right from the shop to please you. That means you will pick a kit that you are sure of.

Variety

Whether you are looking for a starter kit or professional gear, PMT is the shop you want to visit. They have all types of drum sets, from kid’s gear to pro.

With the ever-growing musical instruments industry, drum stores like the PMT are ready to make a huge difference. And not buyers have a chance to find quality gear.