Introducing a new concept in Hi Fi
Introducing a new concept in Hi Fi
The digital music revolution has transformed the face of Hi Fi with a new generation of consumers driving demand for high fidelity audio in a universally accessible and easy-to-store format. Recognising this trend, Yamaha introduces the CD-N500 network CD player which is the first of its kind from the company - melding CD player functionality and network connectivity in a single Hi Fi offering.
Storing digital music files on a hard drive has conventionally been tied to compressed formats such as MP3 which sacrifice audio quality for the conveniences of smaller file sizes. In recent years however, the emergence of high-resolution audio formats such as FLAC and lossless has re-invigorated the demand for high-quality music. The CD-N500 effortlessly streams an assortment of music file types from computers and NAS devices including both compressed and hi-resolution formats.
In addition to being able to stream high-quality FLAC (24-bit/192kHz) and Apple Lossless formats from network sources, the Hi Fi credentials of the CD-N500 are further underpinned by the internal circuitry which boasts left-right symmetrical design for maximum channel separation and the shortest possible circuit path for minimal signal loss.
Other tell-tale signs that the CD-N500 is aimed at the audiophile market include a Pure Direct mode for CD playback which bypasses all non-essential circuitry and the use of a 32-bit/192kHz Burr-Brown DAC which is highly-regarded for its audio performance. For iOS and USB devices, direct digital connection via the USB port on the fascia of the CD-N500 yields superior quality audio from connected devices. In this case, the DAC of the CD-N500 is utilised in place of the DAC of the portable device.
When connected to the same wireless network as an iOS or Android device, the free-todownload NP Controller app transforms your device into a wireless remote control which provides intuitive, wireless control of the CD-N500 including the ability to browse music stored on a network source, stream music from an iOS or Android device, as well as navigate Internet radio stations with ease.
The CD-N500 is available now with a recommended retail price (RRP) of $799. The model is presented in either Black or a retro-themed Silver finish and complements the aesthetics of Yamaha’s Hi Fi component range.