Like every NAD product, legendary high performance is at the heart of this 8 channel amplifier. The CI8-120 manages to step up power output for distributed audio systems with demanding speaker loads or extra long cable runs, squeezing all this into a 1u chassis for ultimate rack economy. This 4 zone amplifier is a reliable workhorse that delivers audiophile quality and big power. NAD CI amplifiers will redefine the way you view distributed audio systems.
Features
- 8 Channels x 120 Watts @ 8 Ohms, HybridDigital with Hypex UcD
- Bridgeable to 4 Channels x 200 Watts @ 8 Ohms
- Effectively Handles Long Cable Runs and Difficult Speaker Loads
- Ethernet Port for IP Control, Custom Web UI with Virtual I/O Panel, and Performance Diagnostics
- DSP with 5 Band Parametric EQ, Plus High and Low Pass Filters
- Dual Global Inputs/Outputs
- 1U Rack Height
- 5W Standby Mode, 3W Network Standby
- 12V Trigger In; IR In/Out
- Thermostatic Fan Cooling with Front Vents
- Auto Sense Turn On and Eco Mode
- Control Drivers for Crestron, Control4, Elan, RTI, URC
Full Disclosure Power
The CI 8-120 DSP offers NAD’s world-renowned sonic performance at an unrivalled price per zone. As per NAD’s Full Disclosure Power (FDP) ratings, this powerhouse is capable of delivering a conservative 120 watts per channel at 8 ohms into all channels simultaneously, bridgeable to 200 watts per channel. IHF Dynamic Power in bridged mode is 4 x 350 watts per channel @ 4 ohm. To put it simply, the CI 8-120 will drive almost anything you need in your multi-room audio system.
Hybrid Digital Amplification
The CI 8-120 DSP uses a customized version of the proven Hypex UcD output stage to deliver great load invariant power with extremely low distortion and noise floor. Every detail of this design has been carefully executed to bring out the best possible performance. Meticulously designed and built to deal with the demands of the custom installation market, the robust nature of Hybrid Digital amplification makes it ideal for installations. With a high current output and being load invariant, it handles 4 ohm loads as easily as it does 8 ohms and can effortlessly handle long cable runs and difficult speaker loads while maintaining audio quality. Whether listening to background music at lower volumes or turning it up, NAD delivers a consistent, linear sound, which is clear, detailed and dynamic at all volume levels.
Rack Space Efficiency and Reliability
NAD is keenly aware that reliability is paramount for a professional installer, so all models will be based on tried and true amplification platforms delivering stable and reliable performance. Since rack real estate is always at a premium, NAD CI amps have been designed to take up as little as possible. Thermostatic fans draw in cool air from the front of the unit and out through the rear vents, meaning you don’t need to leave ventilation gaps between each unit for it to stay cool.
Web UI/DSP
The CI 8-120 is network ready for simple set up, via the custom WebUI. Updated from 2025, the new interface still allows fast set up, of inputs & outputs, setting gain, stereo/mono and bridging of channels, with new clearer layout, creation of DSP profiles using the 5 band Parametric EQ, plus high and low pass filters to allow the dialing in of the audio in each zone and optimize performance. In addition is a new Dashboard, providing a live read out of the units status, improved power management settings with faster bootup time, user password protection, Global Input On/Off selection by zone and new DSP functions, including limiters, phase and delay. I/O switching and routing can also be managed via compatible control systems with drivers available for Crestron, Control4, Elan & RTI.
System Suggestion
Combine the CI 8-120 DSP with the CI 580 V2 4- zone BluOS rack mount streamer or Bluesound NODE to create a complete hi res multi-room package of incredible value and quality. For a step- up in source performance, the NAD C 658 would also compliment the extra power of the CI 8-120 DSP perfectly.
