517Multiple Compact Disc Player

Date of manufacture : Nov 94 - Nov 96

Please note that this document contains the text from the original product brochure, and some technical statements may now be out of date

The NAD 517 combines the convenience of a five disc "carousel" with the kind of performance that has won widespread acclaim for single-disc NAD players. Careful, innovative electrical and mechanical design endow the NAD 517 with a degree of audiophile sound quality not associated with a CD changer. And, of course, the NAD 517 represents excellent value for money - just as one expects from NAD. The NAD 517 offers all the convenience of a CD changer and more: Its drawer-loading transport accomodates five CDs, making uninterrupted music available for as long as six hours. Whilst playing one disc the listener can open the drawer and replace two discs. Fast disc and track access are also notable NAD 517 features.

Unlike many multi-disc designs the NAD 517's 32 random-access programming and automatic "Shuffle play" features can both operate across all loaded discs.

Another useful feature of the NAD 517 is the edit function. Use of this feature means that abrupt ending on tapes recorded from CD's are a thing of the past. After having selected the total tape time available (side A + B) on the NAD 517 it will automatically decide how many tracks will fit on one side of the tape. The supplied remote control handset makes changing discs and/or tracks easy with its direct access numeric key-pad from the comfort of your listening chair.

Besides convenience, ease-of-use and keen pricing, NAD products are also renowned for their sound quality and the NAD 517 is no exception: Digital-to-Analogue conversion is handled by the now world- wide acclaimed Bit stream converter which, due to the nature in which it works, is free of all the non- linearity errors which plague so many of the Compact disc players equipped with Multi-Bit converters.

The NAD engineers realised that it is not just the Digital-to Analogue converter which has an impact on the sound quality. The digital and analogue power supply stages are separated from each other by means of individual regulators to prevent any contamination of the analogue audio signal from the digital section. The entire output stage is completely DC coupled -a feature to be found almost exclusively in expensive single disc players- and controlled by DC servo circuitry to prevent any DC offset on the output. The low output impedance ensures perfect interfacing with other components and interconnecting cables (even long stretches of cable) without any adverse effects.

High-Grade components, many with High-End pedigree, have been used throughout all circuits, normally only to be found in expensive single disc players. Furthermore, multi-stage filtering removes unwanted ultra-sonic by-products (which would otherwise cause interference with your amplifier and other components of your system) of the decoding process without affecting the critical audio band.

As usual with NAD products, future upgrading and flexibility is easy and straightforward. The NAD 517 boasts a coaxial digital output from which the digital data can directly be transferred to digital recording formats such as DAT, MD or DCC recorders. To maintain the integrity of the digital data stream and to isolate the Digital-to-Analogue converter from the outside world an isolating transformer between the converter and output has been used.

All these measures assure that the NAD 517 has almost unequalled sound quality, especially when compared to other CD changers. Apart from this sonic advantage, the NAD 517 also offers the high level of convenience demanded by todays discerning customer.

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NAD 517 brochure Multiple Compact Disc Player, Date of manufacture Nov 94 Nov

517 specifications

NAD 517 is a cutting-edge audio component designed to cater to the needs of audiophiles and casual listeners alike. This versatile device, part of NAD's renowned line of high-fidelity audio products, offers a range of features that enhance sound quality while maintaining user-friendly operation.

One of the standout features of the NAD 517 is its advanced digital-to-analog converter (DAC) technology. Built with a high-performance DAC, this device ensures that audio signals are processed with minimal distortion and noise. The result is an immersive listening experience with crisp highs, rich mids, and profound lows. Whether you're playing your favorite vinyl records or streaming high-resolution audio, the NAD 517 delivers a level of fidelity that is hard to match.

In terms of connectivity, the NAD 517 shines with its versatile input options. It includes multiple analog inputs, USB ports for digital audio playback, and even Bluetooth capabilities, allowing for seamless streaming from smartphones and tablets. This extensive connectivity ensures that users can enjoy music from various sources without compromising on quality.

Another notable characteristic of the NAD 517 is its robust build quality. Engineered with a heavy-duty chassis, this component is designed to minimize vibrations and interference, which can negatively impact audio performance. Its sleek, minimalist design not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also fits seamlessly into any audio setup.

The NAD 517 also features a user-friendly interface with an intuitive display and remote control functionality. Users can easily navigate through playlists, select inputs, and customize sound settings to suit their preferences. This thoughtful design demonstrates NAD's commitment to providing an enjoyable and accessible listening experience.

Moreover, the NAD 517 supports multiple sound formats, including high-resolution audio files, ensuring compatibility with modern music libraries. This versatility enables users to enjoy their collections in the best possible quality, making the NAD 517 a powerful addition to any audio system.

In summary, the NAD 517 is a sophisticated audio component that combines high-performance technologies with user-friendly features. Its advanced DAC, extensive connectivity options, robust build quality, and support for high-resolution audio formats make it an ideal choice for anyone seeking to elevate their listening experience. Whether used in a home setup or paired with other audio components, the NAD 517 stands out as a prime example of NAD's dedication to excellence in sound reproduction.