Naim Audio
Naim ND5 XS 2
Best network streamer for audiophiles seeking high-resolution digital music integration.
The Naim ND5 XS 2 is a versatile network music streamer designed to deliver natural and engaging sound quality from a wide range of sources. It features Naim's innovative streaming platform with support for high-resolution UPnP streaming, AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, Bluetooth (aptX HD), Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Qobuz, and Roon compatibility. With digital and USB inputs, it seamlessly integrates with Naim's amplifiers. The device utilizes a low-noise, high-speed streaming board capable of decoding HD audio formats up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD128, ensuring exceptional audio fidelity.
$3999.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
197
/ 510
#197 in Stereo Music Streaming Devices
Price vs Category Average
+6%
Above average
Audio Inputs
Streaming, Chromecast, AirPlay, TIDAL, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth, Internet Radio, UPnP
/ Streaming, Chromecast, AirPlay, TIDAL, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth, Internet Radio, UPnP
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking rhythmic, energetic, and high-fidelity sound reproduction
- Music lovers wanting seamless access to high-resolution streaming services
- System builders prioritizing premium construction and future-proof component integration
Who should skip it
- Listeners who prefer tactile, physical navigation over app-based control
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level streaming solutions
- Users uncomfortable with configuring advanced home network environments
Performance breakdown
Audio Fidelity
Delivers a natural, engaging sound signature with exceptional high-resolution clarity.
Streaming Versatility
Comprehensive platform support covers virtually every major streaming service and protocol.
Connectivity Options
Robust digital input selection allows for seamless integration with external sources.
Roon Integration
Native Roon Ready status provides a premium, curated music management experience.
Build Quality
Low-noise engineering ensures a clean, interference-free signal path for audio.
Ease of Setup
Intuitive app-based configuration makes network integration straightforward for most users.
Key Specs
Audio Inputs
Streaming, Chromecast, AirPlay, TIDAL, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth, Internet Radio, UPnP
Streaming
WAV, FLAC, DSD, Apple Lossless, AIFF, AAC, Windows Media, M4A, MP3
Digital Inputs
Two 24bit/192kHz S/PDIF and two optical inputs
USB Port
Front-panel USB for audio playback and 1.6A charging
Features
- High-resolution UPnP streaming up to 32bit/384kHz
- Supports a wide range of music formats with gapless playback
- Multiple digital and optical inputs for external sources
- Built-in Chromecast for easy streaming from apps
- Apple AirPlay for iOS device and iTunes/Apple Music streaming
- Spotify Connect, TIDAL, and Qobuz native support
- Front-panel USB for audio playback and charging
- Roon ready for a curated music collection experience
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Naim ND5 XS 2 for its exceptional sound quality, describing it as detailed, engaging, and musically rich. Many highlight the robust build and premium feel, reflecting Naim's commitment to high end audio. The intuitive Naim app also receives positive remarks for making the streaming experience seamless and enjoyable. While a significant investment, users often feel the sonic performance and overall user experience justify the cost, making it a highly regarded component in their audio setups.
Know before you buy
No, the ND5 XS 2 is a dedicated network player and does not feature a volume control. It is designed to be connected to an external preamplifier or an integrated amplifier to manage your system's volume.
Yes, the ND5 XS 2 includes two optical and two S/PDIF digital inputs. This allows you to route audio from external sources like CD players or televisions through the streamer's high-quality internal DAC.
Yes, the ND5 XS 2 is Roon Ready. This means it can be seamlessly integrated into a Roon ecosystem, allowing you to manage and stream your local music library and supported services through the Roon interface.
While the device features built-in Wi-Fi, a wired Ethernet connection is generally recommended for high-resolution streaming to ensure the most stable and consistent data transfer, especially if your network traffic is heavy.
Yes, the front-panel USB port supports audio playback from connected storage devices. It also provides 1.6A of power, which is sufficient for charging mobile devices or powering portable drives.
The ND5 XS 2 supports high-resolution audio files up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD128. It is compatible with a wide range of formats, including WAV, FLAC, AIFF, and Apple Lossless.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$3999