NAD CS1 Endpoint Network Streamer

Streaming Without the Learning Curve

Most streamers ask you to learn their app. The NAD CS1 doesn't have one, and that's its best feature. This palm-sized endpoint works through the apps already on your phone: hit the Cast button in Spotify, Tidal, or YouTube Music, tap AirPlay from any Apple app, and your music plays through your real stereo. Nothing new to install, nothing new to learn.

Under the simple surface is proper NAD engineering: a Texas Instruments PCM5142 DAC playing hi-res audio up to 24-bit/192kHz, with support for Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Roon, DLNA network playback, and Bluetooth 5.2. At just 5.5" square, it disappears next to, behind, or under the amplifier it serves.

Three Outputs, Any System

The CS1 fits systems old and new. Analog RCA outputs connect to any amplifier or receiver, even vintage gear with no digital inputs, using the built-in DAC. Coaxial and optical digital outputs feed an external DAC or a modern amp's digital input, letting your better converter do the work. Wi-Fi and Ethernet handle the network, and a single front button with an LED covers the on-device controls.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Gordon Brockhouse of SoundStage! Simplifi, in a June 1, 2023 review, praised the approach: "Instead of requiring users to install and learn a new app, the CS1 works with apps that they're already using." His verdict ran through NAD's own checklist and agreed: "Attractive price, check. Great sound compared to alternatives like Bluetooth, check. No special software required, check," concluding "I can't think of a reason for you to hesitate" for listeners it fits.

Who Is This Streamer Best For?

• You want streaming with zero learning curve — the apps you already use become the remote control.
• You're upgrading from a Bluetooth adapter — network streaming over Cast and AirPlay sounds meaningfully better.
• Your amplifier is older — analog RCA outputs bring streaming to any system, no digital inputs needed.
• You use Roon — at this price, Roon endpoint support is rare.
• If you want one unified library app, a display, or hi-res beyond 24/192, the CS1 keeps it minimal — a step-up streamer like the Bluesound Node adds those.

How Does It Connect to Your System?

Connect the RCA outputs to any amplifier input, or use the coaxial or optical output if you'd rather use an external DAC. Join your network over Wi-Fi or Ethernet using the simple setup flow, then play: Cast from Android and Chrome apps, AirPlay from Apple devices, use Spotify Connect or Tidal Connect straight from those apps, or group it into a Roon system.

There's no proprietary app to maintain and nothing to relearn; if you can use Spotify, you can use the CS1.

Pairs Well With

Building your system? Here are some great companions for the CS1:

• Integrated Amplifier: The natural partner, vintage or new — see our Integrated Amplifiers.
• DAC: Upgrade conversion through the digital outputs — see our Digital-to-Analog Converters.
• Cables: Quality RCA interconnects carry the signal onward — see our Interconnect Cables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it have its own app?

No, by design. You control it through the apps you already use: Spotify, Tidal, any Cast or AirPlay app, or Roon.

What streaming methods does it support?

Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, DLNA, Roon, and Bluetooth 5.2.

Will it work with my older amplifier?

Yes. The analog RCA outputs connect to any amp or receiver, with the built-in DAC handling conversion.

Can I use my own DAC?

Yes. Coaxial and optical outputs pass the digital signal to an external DAC.

What resolution does it play?

Hi-res audio up to 24-bit/192kHz over the network.

How big is it?

Just 5.5" square and about 2" tall, small enough to hide almost anywhere.

See It in Action

CurrentProductReviews walks through the CS1's features:

The Listening Post takes a closer look at the CS1:

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Learn More

Want to learn more about music streamers, DACs, or adding streaming to your system? Visit our Learning Center for guides, tips, and expert advice.