TEAC NT-505

The NT-505 is a high-end dual-mono USB DAC with a wide range of network playback options. This attractive TEAC device, compact in A4 size, is based not only on decades of experience in audio design but also features the successful integration of network technologies. Like its predecessor, the NT-503, this device has a dual-mono circuit design for processing audio signals with even greater purity, utilizing the VERITA AK4497 DAC chip on each channel. This improves the signal-to-noise ratio, as each channel is processed separately in mono mode. Additionally, it supports native DSD512 (22.5 MHz) and 768 kHz/32-bit PCM playback. The analog circuit section, which is crucial for sound quality, includes four TEAC HCLD buffer amplifier circuits. These allow for various driving modes (fully balanced drive for balanced output and parallel drive for unbalanced output). The network audio section of the NT-505 supports high-quality music streaming services like TIDAL and Qobuz, as well as Roon Ready playback. Furthermore, the device features a built-in MQA decoder, enabling unlimited enjoyment of music content from the internet in the highest digital and analog quality. In addition to various digital and analog inputs, a Bluetooth receiver with LDAC and Qualcomm aptX HD support allows for wireless streaming of audio content in excellent quality from a smartphone to this top-tier USB DAC. The NT-505 is a compact and sophisticated USB DAC and network player that supports Hi-Res formats and online music streaming services.