Nagra Compact Player – a Compact “Entry-Level” Network Source

Audio Technology Switzerland, the company behind the Nagra brand, introduced the Nagra Compact Streamer network transport in December 2025. Now the Swiss manufacturer has announced a similar device, but this time with a built-in DAC section – the Nagra Compact Player. At the same time, the company has removed the digital outputs. According to the developers, the Nagra Compact Player is a complete High End digital source that combines advanced streaming functionality with a high-quality DAC and an analog output stage built in a dual-mono configuration. The new network player supports PCM playback up to 32-bit/384 kHz and DSD up to DSD256, and was developed with special attention to clock architecture, power supply design, and the implementation of the analog stage.

The Nagra Compact Streamer network transport does not include a DAC and is equipped with a LAN port (RJ45), a USB-A port for connecting external storage devices, an N-Link connector for use with Nagra DACs, and an SPDIF output for connection to external DACs from other manufacturers. The Nagra Compact Player is designed the opposite way: it includes a DAC but has no digital outputs. As with the Compact Streamer, the chassis of the new model is CNC-milled from a solid aluminum billet, ensuring mechanical rigidity and resistance to vibrations, both of which are critical for low-noise digital playback.

At the heart of the Nagra Compact Player network streamer is a high-end DAC followed by an analog output stage built in a dual-mono configuration, with separate power supplies for each channel to improve channel separation and minimize crosstalk. Particular attention has been paid to clock synchronization, power supply design, and PCB layout to ensure minimal jitter, lower noise, and optimal signal integrity throughout the entire conversion process.

The Nagra Compact Player streamer supports PCM playback up to 32-bit/384 kHz and DSD up to DSD256 – whether streaming from online platforms or playing locally stored audio files via UPnP/DLNA or from an external USB storage device. With a measured noise floor of –140 dB (A-weighted) and a low output impedance of 14 Ohms, the unit integrates easily with a wide range of preamplifiers and integrated amplifiers, or can even be connected directly to power amplifiers or active loudspeakers.

The Nagra Compact Player network player supports all current streaming services and platforms, including Qobuz Connect, TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, vTuner (access to thousands of radio stations), AirPlay 2, and carries Roon Ready & Roon Tested status as well as Plays with Audirvana certification. Local files can be accessed directly via UPnP/DLNA over a local network or from an external USB storage device, and all functions can be controlled via a dedicated mobile app.

The Nagra Compact Player is supplied with an external 12V DC power supply that ensures stable and low-noise operation from the outset. In keeping with Nagra’s philosophy of long-term ownership, the design allows for further sound optimization through various options, including a dedicated Nagra Compact power supply offering enhanced voltage regulation and current delivery.

The Nagra Compact Player is now available at a recommended retail price of $7,500 USD / €6,500. An “entry level” – Swiss style.