Naim ND5 XS 2 Network Player Streamer

Naim ND5 XS2 is the entry-level network player of the 500 series and is the perfect introduction to music streaming. It uses Naim's innovative new streaming platform with an expanded feature set.

Upgrades

High-res UPnP streaming, AirPlay, Chromecast, Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Roon compatibility, internet radio and multiroom streaming – alongside digital and USB inputs for conventional connections – make this versatile player the ideal partner for one of Naim's integrated amplifiers. With carefully selected and matched parts, an oversized toroidal transformer, decoupled PCB boards, the ND5 XS 2 benefits from classic Naim engineering and fastidious attention to detail to ensure that it delivers natural, engaging sound quality from all sources.An update is also available for the ND5 XS 2 that enabled Tidal Connect, once enabled users can stream music from the Tidal App directly to their system. Users can also stick to using the Naim app to access Tidals core features.

Technology and Craft

The streaming section of the ND5 XS 2 uses the latest Naim network card featuring low-noise, high-speed low-voltage differential signalling (LVDS) to route the digital audio signal. The higher speed is capable of decoding all HD audio formats at up to 32 bits/384 kHz or DSD128. Rather than the source acting as the digital timing master, the new streaming board turns things around and allows the DAC clock to control the flow of audio data. The data is integer-over-sampled in a SHARC DSP to an incredible 40-bit accuracy before it’s fed to the PCM1791A Burr-Brown digital-to-analogue converter.

Extraordinary Design

With Naim's new network players, they retained a classic look while integrating the latest technology and innovative new features using the familiar brushed metal exterior. Along with the Naim app, it’s the face of Naim's seamless new streaming system, providing access to streaming services such as Spotify and TIDAL, internet radio, local sources and album artwork, in short, ultimate connectivity.

Streaming Platform

Developing a new streaming platform was one of the biggest projects Naim have ever taken on. Naim engineers across all sectors; electronic, industrial, acoustic and mechanical, worked for three years to create a system that could make the most of online services such as TIDAL and Spotify while adding future-proof flexibility through Chromecast built-in. Supporting faster data rates with dual-band Wi-Fi and the latest 802.11ac protocol, this robust platform was designed for the highest performance on every level.

Excellent Features

Internet radio allows you to explore thousands of stations from across the world and save your favourites as presets for easy access. UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) streams music from a PC, Mac or network-attached storage with a stunning resolution of up to 32 bits/384 kHz or DSD128. Four 24bit/192kHz capable digital inputs (S/PDIF) to support optimum connection to external sources such as TVs, set top boxes or games consoles. Thanks to built-in IR RC5 system integration, you can control your Naim amplifier directly from the Naim app on a phone or tablet. You are also able to play music from a USB-connected phone, iOS device, other MP3 players, USB sticks or HDDs.

All your Music

Naim’s new network players offer numerous ways to listen to your music with clarity and precision. Chromecast built-in lets you stream audio from hundreds of supported smartphone or tablet apps such as Deezer, Qobuz, Plex, TuneIn, Soundcloud and Pandora with up to 24 bits/96 kHz resolution. Apple AirPlay streams music from your iOS device or from iTunes and Apple Music. Tidal lossless streaming service is integrated for ease of use and audiophile-quality sound. Native support for Spotify lets you play millions of songs from the world’s most popular streaming service. Start playback from a portable device and listen on your Naim network player, using the Spotify app as a remote. Bluetooth (aptX HD) pairs your Bluetooth device for instant playback of your music in high definition with the best current Bluetooth (low latency).

Multiroom Audio

Play music from multiple Naim streaming sources at the same time. Simply link, for example, the ND5 XS2 in your main system to the Uniti in your office and the Mu-so in your kitchen using the intuitive Naim app. Roon-Ready completely transforms the experience of browsing and playing music: rich, beautifully laid-out metadata is hyperlinked to build an easy-to-navigate, searchable magazine of your music collection.

500 Series

Naim's latest network players have been engineered on the basis of a completely new streaming system. Three years in the making, this innovative, Naim-designed digital technology surpasses anything they’ve done before. Combining state-of-the-art DSP with a rich, analogue soul, the 500 Series' network players deliver engaging, immersive sound quality to get the very best out of your music, whilst retaining Naim's classic styling.