Streamers — Naim ND5 XS 2

The ND5 XS 2 is the entry-level network player in Naim Audio's range, built in the slim XS-series casework and designed as a streaming source for one of Naim's integrated amplifiers. It replaced the original ND5 XS of 2011 and moved it onto Naim's newer streaming platform, the same generation used by the second-generation Uniti products, while keeping the Naim DAC architecture of its predecessor.

Key specs that matter

Streaming decodes formats up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD128, including WAV up to 32-bit/384kHz and FLAC, AIFF and ALAC up to 24-bit/384kHz. Conversion uses a Burr-Brown PCM1791A DAC fed by a SHARC DSP. The S/PDIF inputs comprise two optical (up to 24-bit/96kHz), one coaxial RCA and one coaxial BNC (up to 24-bit/192kHz, DSD64 via DoP), plus two USB-A sockets for storage. Analogue output is by RCA and Naim DIN. On the network side it offers Google's Chromecast, AirPlay, Spotify and TIDAL Connect, Roon Ready certification, UPnP and internet radio, while Bluetooth runs the aptX HD codec. The chassis measures 70 x 432 x 301mm and weighs 6.6kg.

Engineering and use context

The streaming board uses low-noise, high-speed LVDS (low-voltage differential signalling) to route digital audio inside the player. Naim reversed the usual timing arrangement - instead of the source acting as the clock master, the DAC's own clock controls the flow of data from the network buffer, so the conversion runs from a fixed, local clock with minimal jitter. The SHARC DSP integer-oversamples the data with 40-bit accuracy using Naim's own digital filter algorithms before it reaches the PCM1791A converter. The power supply is built around an oversized toroidal transformer, and the circuit boards are mechanically decoupled from the chassis to limit the effect of vibration. The slim XS casework omits a display, so the player is operated mainly through the Naim app, which also handles multiroom grouping with other Naim streamers. Naim lists its Power-Line mains cable as the upgrade for this model, and the two USB sockets can also charge a phone or tablet at up to 1.6A. Firmware updates arrive over the network, extending service support over time.

Pairing

The ND5 XS 2 is designed to partner Naim integrated amplifiers such as the Supernait 3 and Nait XS 3, connected by DIN or RCA, and its fixed-level analogue output suits any line input. The digital inputs let it act as the DAC for a CD transport or TV, and USB inputs play from local drives.

Alternatives

Naim's own NDX 2 is the larger, higher-specified network player in the Classic series casework with more power supply upgrade options.