Compact Disc Player, Features and Circuitry

522 Compact Disc Player

•Budget entry level CD Player with Remote Control

•Burr-Brown 20 bit SigmaDelta Digital to Analogue converter

•Low output impedance

•Separate power regulators for analogue and digital sections

•Informative display with switchable track, time and repeat

•Repeat mode for single track or entire CD

•Random play

Background

Over the years NAD has built up an enviable reputation for building fine CD players offering outstanding value for money. The Model 522 will further enhance this reputation with its excellent performance and ease of use at a very keen price.

As always, sonic performance is the first priority at NAD. Rather than adding many seldom used features or going for “overkill” on a single aspect of the design, the NAD engineers have concentrated on the design itself to offer the best performance possible at the price. Behind the deceptively modest front panel lies sophisticated circuitry.

Features and Circuitry

RANDOM gives the listener a random selection of all tracks on the disc in play and REPEAT allows repeat playing of the disc or individual tracks. Individual tracks are easily accessed by SKIP (Forward and Back). SCAN (Forward and Back) gives an aural précis of individual tracks, giving the listener the opportunity to reach specific sections of the track.

The understated yet comprehensive display gives the listener all the vital information required to access and enjoy the selected music. The track number is displayed and for those who regularly transfer CDs to cassette tape, the button displays the current time elapsed or remaining for complete CDs or individual tracks. A “calendar” type section in the display gives immediate visual information how many tracks in total there are on the CD.

The Model 522 comes supplied with a full function remote control, offering all of the features described above from the comfort of your listening chair. On top of that, the remote control handset gives you direct track access as well.

Separate power regulators for the digital and analogue sections isolate the two electrically, and furthermore, careful layout of the PCB tracks around the Digital-to Analogue converter helps to contain RF interference.

For the NAD 522 a Burr-Brown 20 bit SigmaDelta Digital-to-Analogue converter chip was chosen for its excellent low level linearity. Metal film resistors and polypropylene capacitors are used in key areas to ensure a highly accurate frequency response. Unusual at this price level, high quality 5532 op-amps are used instead of the much lower grade and type normally found at this price level and higher. Apart from the single output capacitor, no other capacitors are used in the signal path.

The output impedance is very low at 120 , making the NAD 522 less sensitive to cables or the ancillary equipment it is partnered with.

Truly excellent sound quality is difficult to find at this price, let alone with the added convenience of remote control. Anyone interested in a high performance CD player without frills should put the NAD 522 at the top of their shortlist.

522 specifications

The NAD 522 is an innovative CD player that has garnered attention for its exceptional performance, sleek design, and user-friendly features. Designed for audiophiles and casual listeners alike, it focuses on delivering a high-quality listening experience.

At the core of the NAD 522 lies its advanced digital-to-analog converter (DAC), which plays a pivotal role in ensuring that sound quality remains pristine. This CD player is equipped with a high-performance 24-bit/192 kHz DAC that effectively processes audio signals, delivering rich, detailed sound with impressive dynamics. The result is a listening experience that captures the nuances of music, making it ideal for diverse genres.

The NAD 522 is designed to handle various disc types, including standard CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RWs, providing versatility for users with extensive music collections. Additionally, it features a robust and precise transport mechanism that minimizes vibrations and ensures stable playback. This technology contributes to its overall sound quality, reducing the chances of jitter and distortion during playback.

One of the standout features of the NAD 522 is its user-friendly interface, which makes navigation effortless. The player includes an intuitive remote control and a well-organized front panel, allowing users to easily access their favorite tracks and albums. The inclusion of a digital display further enhances usability, displaying track information and playback status clearly.

Connectivity is another area where the NAD 522 excels. It offers multiple output options, including coaxial and optical digital outputs, as well as standard analog outputs. This flexibility allows users to integrate the CD player into a variety of audio systems, whether for home use or in professional setups. The NAD 522 also supports external DACs, giving audiophiles the options to enhance their listening experience even further.

Furthermore, the build quality of the NAD 522 reflects the brand's commitment to excellence. Its solid chassis not only provides durability but also contributes to minimizing interference and resonance. The aesthetically pleasing design is complemented by high-quality materials, making it a stylish addition to any audio system.

In summary, the NAD 522 CD player is a testament to NAD's legacy of delivering high-fidelity audio products. With its advanced DAC, versatile disc compatibility, user-friendly interface, and robust connectivity options, it stands out as an excellent choice for anyone seeking to elevate their music listening experience. Whether you are revisiting classic albums or exploring new music, the NAD 522 ensures that every note is heard with clarity and depth.