TEAC NT505XB Reference 500 Series Network Audio Player / USB DAC / Preamplifier with Bluetooth Capability - Black

TEAC NT505XB Reference 500 Series Network Audio Player / USB DAC / Preamplifier with Bluetooth Capability - Black

Opening a desktop window to the music world, the NT505XB which incorporates Internet technology and our expertise in audio design, ushers in a new era of network audio.

A dual monaural USB DAC that leads its class and offers flexible network playback features is the NT505XB. It successfully combines the most recent network technology with decades of TEAC's gathered audio design expertise in a sleek, A4-sized compact. The D/A converter section uses one ES9038 Q2M (produced by ESS Technology) in each of the left and right channels to process stereo signals with greater purity thanks to the dual mono structure. This device utilises each DAC in mono mode to produce a high signal-to-noise ratio.

Additionally, its high specifications when used as a USB DAC, enable native playback of 22.5MHz DSD and 768kHz/32bit PCM formats. One of the keys to sound quality is the analogue portion, which has four TEAC-HCLD2 buffer amp circuits that enable various drive modes, including fully-balanced drive for balanced output and parallel drive mode for unbalanced output, to produce improved acoustic expression. The NT505XB supports premium music subscription services like TIDAL, Qobuz, and Roon Ready* on the network audio side. Additionally, a built-in MQA decoder and its superior digital and analogue processing technologies allow you to access an endless amount of music content online.

Furthermore, the DAC's high performance characteristics allow for wireless playing from smart devices with excellent audio quality.

High-Performance DAC ESS Technology ES9038 Q2M Offers Resolutions Up To 22.5MHz DSD And 768kHz/32bit PCM

Each of the stereo channels in the NT505XB has one DAC chip, a vital element of digital audio. In the world of high-end audio, the ESS Technology ES9038Q2M SABRE32 Reference DAC has a solid reputation. An amazing dynamic range is achieved, and the linearity of the D/A conversion is improved, thanks to the 32-bit HyperStream® II DAC architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator (both of which are ESS original innovations). As a result, it is now feasible to play back audio that is clear and accurate and has greater dynamic characteristics.

Fully Balanced And Dual Monaural Circuit Designs

From NT505XB's power supply (including power transformers), to the D/A converters in the digital portion and the analogue output stage, a dual monaural circuit architecture is used throughout. Each component, from the powerful D/A converters to the enormous toroidal-core power transformers, is set up for single channel processing. This replicates a rich sonic expressiveness while preventing mutual interference effects. Additionally, the left and right channels' analogue audio signals are both treated in full balanced mode shortly after the D/A converters until they reach the output terminal, which contributes to a higher S/N ratio and a wider dynamic range. This enables Hi-Res formats' amazing sense of atmosphere to be processed and transmitted without suffering any loss.

Support for well-liked and practical network Features, Such As OpenHome And Roon Ready

The NT505XB, which also supports this platform can be used with common control apps that support OpenHome. Additionally, TEAC HR Streamer and other control applications that support OpenHome can be used to control playlists on the NT505XB. Additionally, supported is gapless playback. Support for Roon Ready enables limitless usage of RAAT (Roon Advanced Audio Transport) features like multi-room synchronised playback, easy and convenient operation using applications, and high-quality audio playback. * After the product is released, a firmware upgrade will be made available that will support Roon Ready.

Supports TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify Connect And TuneIn

A LAN connection can be used to connect the device to a home network so that music files saved on computers and NAS music servers can be accessed and played back. The subscription Internet music streaming services Spotify, TIDAL, and Qobuz are also supported by this device. Tens of millions of lossless CD-quality (44.1kHz/16bit) music tracks can be listened to with these.

 

MQA Decoder For Streaming In Master Quality

The NT505XB supports MQA decoding and high-sampling-rate Hi-Res formats like DSD512 (22.5MHz) and PCM 32bit/768kHz in order to produce an analogue waveform that is more resemblant to the original signal. The MQA decoder is a brand-new technology that reproduces sound with exceptional precision (down to 5 microseconds), making it appear to be as similar to the original as possible (to human hearing). You may enjoy Hi-Res audio sources regardless of the speed of your Internet connection since a high-efficiency compression method reduces the size of enormous Hi-Res audio files.

Bluetooth®-Based High-Resolution Wireless Audio Streaming

The NT505XB supports LDACTM (24bit/96kHz Hi-Res audio transmission) in addition to standard SBC, AAC formats and Qualcomm® aptXTM HD, a format that transmits data in a 24bit/48kHz format. You can use these to wirelessly stream playlists on your tablet and smartphone.

USB Flash Drive Playback Of High-Resolution Audio

You can playback Hi-Res audio formats like DSD128 (5.6MHz) and PCM 24bit/192kHz that you have obtained from the Internet or digitally recorded with the SD-500HR via the USB connector on the front panel.

44.1kHz And 48kHz Dual Inbuilt Clocks As Well As An External Clock Input

For USB asynchronous transmission mode, a high-precision, low phase-noise, audio-grade crystal oscillator produces a more precise and on-board clock rather than reference to an erratic and noisy PC clock during USB audio playback. To replicate the same sound as the original by removing jitter effects on the audio signal, theNT505XB accommodates two on-board clocks that are only for 44.1kHz and 48kHz sampling frequencies. It applies the appropriate one to incoming digital signals, those that are multiples of 44.1k or 48k. Additionally, a 10MHz external clock input is available for synchronising with a master clock generator that has even higher precision, like the TEAC CG-10M/CG-10M-A, to further improve audio playing and sound quality.

Conversion Of Up To 384 kHz/32 Bit PCM And 24.5 MHz DSD

The NT505XB up-converts PCM digital signals up to 384kHz/32bit PCM and 24.5MHz DSD by using RDOT-NEO (Refined Digital Output Technology NEO), a fluency algorithm that renders digital audio signals smoothly. Even with music you are accustomed to, the quality will improve when the up-conversion function is turned on.

Enhancing Audio Quality With "Bulk Pet" USB Transfer Technology

The processing demands of the sending computer and the receiving NT505XB USB DAC might vary greatly when moving significant amounts of digital data for Hi-Res audio sources over USB connections in the traditional isochronous transmission mode. This may result in sound interruptions and other issues. With our brand-new "Bulk Pet" USB transmission technology, a defined amount of data is sent continuously, balancing the load on both devices and promoting steady data transmission. Users can choose their preferred option by altering the processing load on the computer, which directly influences audio quality (from four transmission modes). Interface Corporation is the registered owner of the trademark "Bulk Pet." Visit the Interface Corporation website for more details about "Bulk Pet."

7 Distinct PCM Digital Filter Types

You can choose the PCM digital filter that best suits the file format or style of music you're listening to from seven different sorts. You may enjoy the various audio characteristics of each filter by switching the filter at the touch of a button on the remote control.

Power Transformers With Two Toroidal Cores And Huge Capacities

The dual monaural motif is still present. The NT505XB uses two enormous, high-capacity toroidal-core power transformers to provide steady, separate current sources for the left and right channels, etc. This means that changes in one channel's power usage during digital processing won't have an impact on the other.

TEAC-HCLD2 Enhanced-Current Output Buffer Amp Circuit That Has Been Improved

In order to create the analogue output circuit, we used the TEAC-HCLD 2. The TEAC-HCLD circuit enhanced-current output buffer amp that has been further improved, increasing key current output capability (HCLD: High Current Line Driver). The line buffer ICs used in the NT505XB model now have incredibly large current output capacities. For each channel, a positive-negative two-circuit arrangement allows for differential drive with balanced output and parallel drive with unbalanced output. It is now possible to transmit audio signals without sacrificing their dynamism thanks to an improvement in current supply capacity.

Preamp Circuits Now Feature TEAC-Four-Circuit, QVCS's High-Precision Volume Control

The volume circuit in the NT505XB is TEAC-QVCS (Quad Volume Control System). This electronic volume control has four separate circuits for the left, right, positive, and negative (L+, L, R+, R) channels of a variable gain amp type. Diverging wiring-related noise problems are eliminated by inserting the analogue variable gain amp volume control in the audio signal path on the circuit board. Additionally, this TEAC-QVCS allows volume adjustment in 0.5dB steps, letting you choose the ideal volume for your headphones or audio system.

A Line Amp Section That Has Been Carefully Designed Can Also Serve As A Headphone Amplifier

The enhanced TEAC-HCLD2 circuit also has high drive capabilities as a headphone amplifier, enabling it to fully exploit a variety of headphone varieties, beginning with 600 high-impedance models. The NT505XB also supports the Ground Separate connection by separating circuit ground on both the Left and Right channels from the amplifier section to the headphone jack, improving channel separation, which is essential for headphone listening and producing clear sound with a large audible soundstage.

All-Metal Housing With An A4 Footprint That Can Fit On A Desk That Offers Both Vibration Resistance And A Fashionable Design

Electromagnetic noise produced by computers and other devices cannot penetrate the NT505XB body since it is made entirely of noise-resistant metal plates. Even in challenging environments for audio equipment, a quiet internal atmosphere has been achieved. Additionally, the all-metal chassis' 8mm-thick aluminium plates on both sides offer a solid and robust frame that avoids twisting and bending. In addition, the unit can be put on a desk, side table, or other tiny location because it is the size of an A4 page* (viewed from above). *The connectors, knobs, and other protrusions are not included in this.

XLR And RCA Output Jacks That Are Symmetrically Arranged

Both balanced and unbalanced Analog audio outputs are provided by the NT505XB. There are two pairs of gold-plated XLR connectors and two pairs of RCA connectors symmetrically arranged on the device, hinting at the dual monaural setup within and enabling a variety of audio configurations. Professional quality plugs with large-diameter shells can fit on the RCA outputs thanks to a layout with a wide spacing between the pins. Five digital inputs are available on the NT505XB: USB audio, coaxial, optical on the rear panel, and a combo connection for coaxial and optical on the front panel (which supports PCM 24bit/192kHz and DSD64 (2.8MHz) in DoP format).

Brand New Stress-less Foot Design

Three support points in our newly created NT505XB Stressless Foot design allow for stable installation of the unit so that it is not harmed by minute imperfections in the surface underneath it. These feet are less securely attached to the chassis than the original feet utilised in earlier iterations. The idea behind this design was to generate more natural sound reverberations by enabling the feet to freely vibrate. The tips of the machined steel conical feet are fastened in such a way that when the unit is elevated, they dangle from the chassis's bottom and are free to swing. This design enables more natural, rich reverberations while yet maintaining a sensation of placement similar to that provided by the pin-point spiky feet employed by earlier models.

Top Panel With A Semi-Floating Design

The top panel now has a new semi-floating construction. It has succeeded in producing a sound with a fantastic sense of openness.

Free TEAC HR Audio Player Software Is Available For Both Windows And Mac To Playback DSD512

The TEAC HR Audio Player software for Windows and Mac supports DSD512 (22.5MHz) and PCM 768kHz/32bit, the next-generation Hi-Res formats. With every combination of audio format and computer setup, this software ensures the highest playback quality possible over a single USB cable. Simply selecting the NT505XB from the pull-down selection of target output devices is all that is required. You can use the TEAC HR Audio Player for free by downloading it from the TEAC website.

TEAC HR Streamer For iOS And Android Smartphones Is Free

This free program for iOS and Android smartphones enables you to control wireless streaming music playback from a device, NAS, desktops, and the Internet, along with rich graphic information like album artwork. It supports Hi-Res audio formats up to 5.6MHz DSD and 192kHz PCM. * Using the App requires a Wi-Fi network.