ND5 XS 2 – Naim’s entry-level network player offers the perfect introduction to music streaming
The ND5 XS 2 features Naim’s innovative new streaming platform with an expanded feature set. This includes high-resolution UPnP™ streaming, AirPlay, AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, Bluetooth (aptX HD), Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Qobuz, Roon compatibility, and internet radio. Additionally, ND5 XS 2 supports multiroom streaming and has digital and USB inputs for conventional connections, making the ND5 XS 2 a versatile player and an ideal partner for one of Naim’s integrated amplifiers.
The ND5 XS 2 showcases Naim’s classic engineering and meticulous attention to detail. It includes carefully selected and matched parts, an oversized toroidal transformer, and decoupled PCB boards. These features ensure that the ND5 XS 2 delivers natural and engaging sound quality from all sources.
Key Features
- UPnP-enabled: Streams audio files at up to 32bit/384kHz resolution from Naim Audio hard disk servers, network-attached storage (NAS) devices, or any home computer.
- Broad Format Support: Compatible with a wide array of music formats including WAV, FLAC, DSD, Apple Lossless, AIFF, AAC, Windows Media-formatted files, M4A, and MP3. It also supports gapless playback on all file formats.
- High-Quality Digital Inputs: Includes two 24bit/192kHz capable digital inputs (S/PDIF) and two optical inputs, ensuring optimal connection to external sources.
- Built-in Chromecast: Allows streaming from hundreds of supported smartphone or tablet apps up to 192kHz.
- Apple AirPlay: Enables streaming of music from iOS devices or from iTunes and Apple Music.
- Spotify Connect: Integrated for streaming millions of songs from the world’s most popular streaming service.
- Native Qobuz Support: Offers true high-res streaming up to 24-bit/192kHz quality.
- TIDAL Integration: Comes with native support and a free 90-day trial of the lossless HiFi tier.
- Front-panel USB Port: Facilitates the replay of MP3 player and USB-stored audio with a 1.6A charging capability.
- vTuner Internet Radio: Features a 5-star full-service internet radio.
- Multiroom & Party Mode: Compatible with these streaming modes.
- Intuitive Control: iOS and Android Naim Audio apps provide user-friendly control.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Includes aptX codec for quality audio playback.
- RC5 System Integration: Enables control of compatible amplifiers connected to the network player directly from the Naim app on a phone or tablet.
- Roon Ready: Transforms your music collection into a beautifully laid out catalog.
Technology & Craft
The streaming section of the ND5 XS 2 features the latest Naim network card, which employs low-noise, high-speed low-voltage differential signalling (LVDS) to route the digital audio signal. This advanced technology is capable of decoding all HD audio formats at up to 32 bits/384 kHz or DSD128. In a significant design shift, the new streaming board of the ND5 XS 2 allows the DAC clock to control the flow of audio data, as opposed to the source acting as the digital timing master. The digital audio signal is integer-over-sampled in a SHARC DSP to an incredible 40-bit accuracy before feeding into the PCM1791A Burr-Brown digital-to-analogue converter.
The development of a new streaming platform was a major undertaking for Naim. Engineers from various disciplines – electronic, industrial, acoustic, and mechanical – dedicated three years to crafting a system optimized for online services like TIDAL and Spotify. This effort included integrating future-proof features such as Chromecast built-in. The platform supports faster data rates with dual-band Wi-Fi and the latest 802.11ac protocol, ensuring peak performance at every level for you, the user.
