Naim Audio ND5 XS 2

The ND5 XS 2 is a network player from Naim Audio, designed to serve as a central digital source in a hi-fi system. It brings together several streaming protocols within a single unit: high-resolution UPnP, AirPlay, Chromecast built-in, Bluetooth aptX HD, Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Roon compatibility, internet radio and multiroom streaming. Digital and USB inputs complete the unit for conventional wired connections.

The ND5 XS 2's network card is based on LVDS (low-voltage differential signalling) technology, which carries the digital audio signal at high speed and with a low noise level. This architecture reverses the usual role of the source: it is no longer the source that dictates digital synchronisation, but rather the Naim streaming card that allows the DAC's clock to govern the data flow. The data is then upsampled by a SHARC DSP processor to a precision of 40 bits, before being converted by a Burr-Brown PCM1791A DAC. Altogether, this enables decoding of HD audio formats up to 32-bit/384 kHz or DSD128.

In terms of build, the ND5 XS 2 follows the principles of Naim engineering: selected and matched components, a toroidal transformer of substantial size, and decoupled circuit boards. This approach aims for a natural, engaging sound reproduction, whatever the musical source used.

UPnP compatible, the unit plays audio files up to 32-bit/384 kHz from Naim Audio hard-disk servers, a NAS or a personal computer. It supports a wide range of music formats:

This network player is aimed at hi-fi enthusiasts wishing to centralise their digital sources, online streaming, network-stored files, internet radio, within a system already equipped with an integrated amplifier, particularly from the Naim range, with which it forms a coherent whole.