NAD debuts CS1 compact Bluetooth music streamer

NAD Electronics has unveiled the NAD CS1 Endpoint Network Streamer, a compact, wireless upgrade that can bring connectivity to any legacy Hi-Fi system.

The NAD CS1 can play high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/192kHz. It features Bluetooth 5.0, dual-band Wi-Fi and supports Apple AirPlay 2, GoogleCast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect and Roon.

It’s also expected to support network sharing via standard DNLA/UPnP protocols at launch .

Users can use Bluetooth to pair the CS1 with a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Alternatively, with GoogleCast, music can be Cast from any any compatible app. Apple users can utilise AirPlay 2 to stream CD-resolution audio from an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, or from an iTunes library on a Windows PC.

The NAD CS1 employs a Texas Instruments’ PCM5141 DAC, with full MQA rendering and decoding capability for playing master quality music from Tidal. 

The CS1 sports a pair of analogue outputs for connection to a stereo receiver, integrated amp, preamplifier, or a pair of powered speakers. There are also optical and coaxial outputs. Hardwiring is available from the Ethernet port.

The NAD CS1 lands in stores in March, priced at £299 ( US$349/ €399).