C521i vs C541
The C541's bit depth is 24-bit against the C521i's 20-bit, its signal-to-noise 108 dB against 107 dB, and its thd 0.004% against 0.003%. Both share max sample rate (44.1 kHz).
AI-generated product photo — not official manufacturer imagery.
DigitalCD PlayersDACsDiscontinued
Estimated price (community-sourced)
$100
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
About the C521i
The NAD C521i is a high-value CD player from around 2001-2002, featuring a Burr-Brown Sigma Delta 20-bit DAC with 8x oversampling, separate analog/digital power regulation, low output impedance of 200-300 ohms using 5532 op-amps, and compatibility with CD-R/CD-RW. It offers analog RCA and isolated coaxial digital outputs for clean signal transfer with reduced jitter. Praised for detailed, precise sound with good dynamics and clean bass, suitable for jazz, rock, and classical. Includes remote control and basic programming functions. Common issues include laser/tracking problems and tray mechanism failures over time.
Specifications
Digital Audio
DAC capabilities and digital audio processing
- Bit Depth
- 20-bit
- Max Sample Rate
- 44.1 kHz
- MQA Support
- No
- DAC Chip
- Burr-Brown PCM1710U
Analog Output
Analog signal output specifications
- THD
- 0.003%
- SNR
- 107 dB
- Output Voltage
- 2.1V RMS
- Output Impedance
- 250Ω
Connectivity
Input and output connections
- Bluetooth
- No
- Wi-Fi
- No
- Ethernet
- No
- Digital Outputs
- coaxial
- Analog Outputs
- RCA
Physical Dimensions
Size, weight, and appearance
- Dimensions
- 435 × 75 × 285 mm (W × H × D)
- Weight
- 4 kg (9 lbs)
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions