In this NAD CS1 Network Streamer review, we'll explore how this diminutive digital maestro is revolutionising the streaming landscape. As streaming becomes increasingly central to modern audio systems, NAD has crafted a solution that perfectly balances sophistication with simplicity. Having spent considerable time with this unit, I'm excited to share why it's causing such a stir in audiophile circles.

First Impressions and Design

The CS1's minimalist aesthetic immediately catches the eye. Measuring just 140 x 140 x 55mm, this compact marvel showcases NAD's commitment to elegant, functional design. The sleek black finish and understated LED indicator speak to its professional pedigree, while the build quality feels reassuringly robust.

Sound Quality and Performance

At the heart of the CS1 lies the exceptional Texas Instruments PCM5141 DAC, delivering outstanding audio performance with support for up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution. The differential DAC design ensures remarkably low noise floors and excellent immunity to jitter - critical factors for discerning listeners.

The measured specifications tell an impressive story:

• THD + N: <0.03% (20Hz-20kHz)
• Signal-to-Noise ratio: -94dB
• Frequency response: 20-20kHz (+/-0.3dB)

Connectivity and Features

The CS1 is a veritable Swiss Army knife of connectivity options:

• Built-in Bluetooth 5.0
• Dual-band Wi-Fi
• Ethernet port
• Analogue RCA outputs
• Optical and coaxial digital outputs

Streaming support is comprehensive:

• Apple AirPlay 2
• Chromecast
• Spotify Connect
• Tidal Connect (with MQA)
• DLNA
• Roon Ready

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality with premium DAC implementation
• Comprehensive streaming protocol support
• Compact, space-saving design
• Multiple digital and analogue outputs
• Full MQA decoding capability
• Energy-efficient (0.5W standby)
• Simple, intuitive operation
• Excellent build quality

Cons:

• Single RCA analogue output
• No display screen (LED indicator only)
• USB input limited to power only

Who Is This For?

The CS1 is perfect for:

• Audiophiles seeking a high-quality streaming solution
• Music lovers wanting to modernise their existing system
• Those with space constraints but unwilling to compromise on sound
• Users of multiple streaming services wanting a unified solution

Expert Installation and Setup

While the CS1 is straightforward to set up, getting the absolute best from it requires careful consideration of your entire system. Our team at The Audio Tailor can provide detailed guidance - just ring 1300 308 711 for personalised advice on optimising your setup.

Value Proposition

When you consider the CS1's feature set, build quality, and sonic capabilities, it represents excellent value. For those looking to add streaming capabilities to their system without compromising on sound quality, the NAD CS1 delivers in spades.

A New Standard in Streaming Excellence

The NAD CS1 Network Streamer sets a new benchmark for compact streaming solutions. It combines audiophile-grade performance with user-friendly operation in a way that few competitors can match. For personalised advice on integrating the CS1 into your system, don't hesitate to reach out to our team at The Audio Tailor - we're always happy to help craft your perfect audio solution.

Looking for expert guidance on your audio journey? Contact our team at 1300 308 711 or email sales@theaudiotailor.com.au for personalised recommendations.