Our entry-level network player is the perfect introduction to music streaming.
The ND5 XS 2 uses Naim's innovative new streaming platform with an expanded feature set. High-res UPnP™ streaming, AirPlay, Chromecast built-in, Bluetooth (apt X HD), 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.
Technology & 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, our new streaming board turns things around and allows our 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-toanalogue converter.
Developing a new streaming platform was one of the biggest projects Naim have ever taken on. Naim engineers across all disciplines – 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.
Features
- UPnP-enabled to allow streaming of audio files at up to 32bit/384kHz resolution from Naim Audio hard disk servers, network-attached storage (NAS) devices or any home computer
- Supports a broad range of music formats: WAV, FLAC, DSD, Apple Lossless, AIFF, AAC, Windows Media-formatted files, M4A and MP3. Gapless playback on all file formats
- Two 24bit/192kHz capable digital inputs (S/PDIF) and two optical inputs to support optimum connection to external sources
- Built-in Chromecast allows you to stream from hundreds of supported smartphone or tablet apps (192kHz)
- Apple AirPlay - stream music from your iOS device or from iTunes and Apple Music
- Spotify Connect built-in to stream millions of songs from the world’s most popular streaming service
- Native support for TIDAL streaming service with free 90 day trial of lossless HiFi tier
- Front-panel USB port for replay of MP3 player and USB-stored audio (1.6A charge)
- vTuner 5* full-service internet radio
- Multiroom & Party Mode compatible
- iOS and Android Naim Audio app for intuitive control
- Bluetooth connectivity with aptX codec for quality audio playback
- Thanks to RC5 system integration, you can control compatible amplifiers that are connected to your network player directly from the Naim app on a phone or tablet
- Roon ready - turning your music collection into a beautifully laid out catalogue
Audio Inputs
-
Streaming
Chromecast built-in, Apple AirPlay, TIDAL, Spotify® Connect, Bluetooth (AptX HD), Internet Radio, UPnP™ (hi-res streaming), Roon Ready
-
USB
2 x USB Type A socket (front and rear - 1.6A charge)
-
Digital (S/PDIF)
2 x optical TOSLink (up to 24bit/96kHz)
1 x coaxial RCA (up to 24bit/192kHz, DoP 64Fs)
1 x coaxial BNC (up to 24bit/192kHz, DoP 64Fs)
Audio Outputs
Connectivity
-
Multiroom
Party Mode Streaming: Sync up to six Naim products and control via the Naim app
-
Updates
Update your system wirelessly via the Naim app
-
Network
Ethernet (10/100Mbps), WiFi (802.11 b/g/n/ac with external antennae)
Formats
-
Internet Radio Formats
Windows Media-formatted content, MP3, ACC, OGG Vorbis streams and MMS
-
Internet Radio Provider
vTuner premium 5*
-
Audio Formats
WAV - up to 32bits/384kHz
FLAC and AIFF - up to 24bit/384kHz
ALAC (Apple Lossless) - up to 24bit/384kHz
MP3 - up to 48kHz, 320kbit (16 bit)
AAC - up to 48kHz, 320kbit (16 bit)
OGG and WMA - up to 48kHz (16 bit)
DSD - 64 and 128Fs
M4A - up to 48kHz, 320kbit (16 bit)
Note: Gapless playback supported on all formats.
Physical
Power
-
Mains Supply
100V, 115V or 230V; 50 or 60Hz
-
Power Consumption
Typical use: 11W
Network standby mode: <2W
Deep sleep: <0.5W
Ripping and Storage
Supplied with
-
Supplied with
Power-Line Lite cable (UK denominations only), 5-pin DIN interconnect cable, BNC to RCA adaptor, Wi-Fi (x2) and Bluetooth antennae, cleaning cloth, quick start guide
Upgrades
User Control
 |
"The Naim ND5 XS 2 is a sterling piece of hi-fi kit. It sounds like a five-star product almost immediately, and our admiration only grows as it mellows and settles into its role."
READ MORE |
 |
"This is an exceptionally well-engineered piece of kit. Sonically, it manages to move the game on from its already supremely talented predecessor. It still kicks ass and takes na(im)mes when it comes to the beat and emotional content of music but it partners this with a sweetness and tonal richness that broadens the appeal still further."
READ MORE |
 |
"All the usual Naim suspects were of course present - pace, rhythm and timing aplenty but wait, what is this? A real three dimensional soundstage, with almost holographic imagery. Excellent. And deep tuneful bass, a truly realistic midrange and an airy top end too."
READ MORE |
 |
"The ND5 XS 2 gets dangerously near to its big brother, the NDX 2, and does so for less than half a price."
READ MORE |
 |
"It ranks as one of the best streamers you can buy at this price."
READ MORE |
 |
"The ND5 XS 2 impresses me as a good-sounding, pleasant-to-use player that offers very good value for the money."
READ MORE |