C-3 vs NAD 114
The 114's signal-to-noise is 98 dB against the C-3's 80 dB, its thd 0.020% against 0.010%, its output voltage 10.0V RMS against 6.0V RMS, and its input sensitivity 0.5V RMS against 0.0V RMS.
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The Carver C-3 is a stereo preamplifier designed to deliver high-fidelity audio performance with Sonic Holography, a technology that enhances the sound stage for a more immersive listening experience. It has a frequency response from 20Hz to 20kHz and a very low total harmonic distortion of 0.01%, ensuring clean and accurate sound reproduction. The unit supports moving magnet (MM) phono input with a sensitivity of 0.7mV and line input sensitivity of 50mV. It offers a signal-to-noise ratio of 80dB for MM and 82dB for line inputs, with a preamp output of 6V. The C-3 is compact and lightweight, measuring 51 x 483 x 305 mm and weighing 4 kg. It has been highly regarded by audiophiles for its ability to tie together high-end audio systems and is considered to perform in a league above many other preamplifiers. The unit is no longer widely available new but remains sought after in the used market.
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
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The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The 114's signal-to-noise is 98 dB against the C-3's 80 dB, its thd 0.020% against 0.010%, its output voltage 10.0V RMS against 6.0V RMS, and its input sensitivity 0.5V RMS against 0.0V RMS.
The 1600's signal-to-noise is 75 dB against the C-3's 80 dB, its thd 0.040% against 0.010%, and its output voltage 10.0V RMS against 6.0V RMS. Both share input sensitivity (0.0V RMS).
The PAT-5a's signal-to-noise is 70 dB against the C-3's 80 dB, its thd 0.007% against 0.010%, its output voltage 2.0V RMS against 6.0V RMS, and its input sensitivity 0.8V RMS against 0.0V RMS.
The C-1's signal-to-noise is 86 dB against the C-3's 80 dB, its thd 0.040% against 0.010%, its weight 2.7 kg (6 lbs) against 4 kg (9 lbs), and its width 482.6 mm against 483 mm.
Mondial Designs Aragon 18K mkII
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