CS1 vs Arcam airDAC
The airDAC's max sample rate is 96 kHz against the CS1's 192 kHz, its signal-to-noise 106 dB against 94 dB, and its thd 0.002% against 0.030%. Both share bit depth (24-bit).
AI-generated product photo — not official manufacturer imagery.
DigitalStreamersDACs
Estimated price (community-sourced)
$349 - $439
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
About the CS1
The NAD CS1 Endpoint Network Streamer is a compact, affordable device designed to bring modern music streaming capabilities to legacy stereo systems, home theater setups, or powered speakers. It supports popular protocols including AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, DLNA/UPnP, and Roon, allowing control via everyday music apps without a dedicated app. Featuring audiophile-grade components, it delivers high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/192kHz with full MQA decoding and rendering. Connections include analog RCA, optical TOSLINK, and coaxial digital outputs, plus Bluetooth 5.0, dual-band Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. Powered by a 5V USB-C adapter, it employs a premium differential DAC based on Texas Instruments PCM5141 (or PCM5142/PCM5254 per sources) known for low noise, wide dynamic range, and jitter immunity. As of 2026, it appears to be no longer manufactured, with some retailers listing it as discontinued or sold out.
Specifications
Digital Audio
DAC capabilities and digital audio processing
- Bit Depth
- 24-bit
- Max Sample Rate
- 192 kHz
- MQA Support
- Yes
- DAC Chip
- Texas Instruments PCM5141/PCM5142/PCM5254
Analog Output
Analog signal output specifications
- THD
- 0.030%
- SNR
- 94 dB
- Output Voltage
- 2.0V RMS
Connectivity
Input and output connections
- Bluetooth
- Yes
- Wi-Fi
- Yes
- Ethernet
- Yes
- Digital Outputs
- Coaxial, Optical
- Analog Outputs
- Stereo RCA
Streaming Services
Supported streaming platforms and protocols
- AirPlay
- v2
- Chromecast
- Yes
- Roon Ready
- Yes
- Spotify Connect
- Yes
- TIDAL Connect
- Yes
- Other Services
- DLNA/UPnP
Physical Dimensions
Size, weight, and appearance
- Dimensions
- 140 × 55 × 162 mm (W × H × D)
- Weight
- 1.5 kg (3 lbs)
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions