Key Features
At the heart of the 522 is a Burr-Brown 20-bit Sigma-Delta digital-to-analogue converter with 8x oversampling and 4-pole active analogue filtering, a genuinely capable DAC for a CD player of this level and one which NAD engineers built the rest of the machine around rather than treating as an afterthought. Separate power regulators are used for the analogue and digital sections of the circuit, a measure intended to keep noisy digital circuitry from interfering with the more sensitive analogue output stage. NAD also kept the signal path deliberately simple, with only a single output capacitor used anywhere in the circuit, and specified a low output impedance of 120Ω, making the 522 less sensitive to the choice of cable or partnering equipment than many rivals.
In use, the 522 offers straightforward, no-nonsense operation, with informative front-panel display feedback for track, time, and repeat status, along with random play and repeat modes for either a single track or the whole disc. Despite its budget positioning, the 522 was well regarded in its day for offering a genuinely accomplished CD player experience without unnecessary frills.
Technical Specifications
(Source: NAD 522 official specification sheet, via ManualsLib and ManualsBase; HiFi Engine manual library; hifi-wiki.com; cross-referenced against the unit’s rear-panel data label)
- Type: Single-disc CD player
- Digital-to-Analogue Converter: Burr-Brown PCM1710U, 20-bit Sigma-Delta
- Digital Filter: 8x oversampled
- Analogue Filter: 4-pole active
- CD Mechanism: SF-P101
- Frequency Response: 5Hz – 20kHz (±0.5dB)
- Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.0025% (at 0dB, 1kHz)
- Dynamic Range: 96dB
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 100dB (de-emphasis on), 110dB (de-emphasis off)
- Channel Separation: >110dB (@1kHz), >80dB (@10kHz)
- Output Impedance: 120Ω
- Programming Capability: 21 tracks
- Power Rating: 230V, 50Hz, 0.2A
- Country of Manufacture: Made in Japan; designed and engineered in London, England
- Year of Production: 1997–1999
Important Owner’s Notes
We have fitted a new replacement laser to this unit as part of our workshop preparation, giving good confidence in reliable disc-reading performance going forward.
Why Buy From Us
With over 40 years of experience in the Hi-Fi industry, we are well placed to assess and test equipment of this type. Every item we list is fully inspected and tested before sale — this unit was checked by Andrew in our workshop.
When you buy from us you can expect:
- Full inspection and testing prior to listing — not simply a visual check
- A 3-month guarantee on every item we sell
- Transparent descriptions with no omissions
- Professional packaging to ensure safe delivery
- After-sales support available by phone or email should you have any questions
Summary
A genuinely capable budget CD player from NAD, offered here in good condition with the reassurance of a freshly fitted replacement laser. A great option for anyone wanting reliable, no-frills CD playback with a genuine step up in sound quality over entry-level rivals. This is a single-unit listing. Please feel free to get in touch with any questions prior to purchase.
