Nagra Compact Player
DESCRIPTION
The Nagra Compact Player is a complete high-end digital source that combines streaming capabilities with a high-performance built-in D/A conversion stage, all housed in a refined and compact chassis. Developed following the success of the Nagra Streamer, the Compact Player replaces digital outputs with an advanced D/A architecture while preserving the sonic signature that defined the Streamer: a fluid, natural presentation with a smooth, analog-like character.
Designed to deliver faithful timbre reproduction, a spacious three-dimensional soundstage, deep bass extension, and powerful, effortless dynamics, the Compact Player integrates seamlessly into a wide range of systems. It supports PCM up to 384 kHz and DSD 256, placing it firmly within Nagra’s design philosophy while remaining accessible and easy to use.
The compact yet substantial chassis is CNC-machined from a solid billet of aluminum, offering exceptional rigidity and resistance to vibration. Sized to fit easily into modern equipment racks, the Compact Player is engineered to be as large as necessary and no larger.
Rather than using Nagra’s proprietary NADM digital engine, extensive testing led to the selection of a high-performance DAC solution. Two stereo DAC chips, one per channel are employed to reduce noise and improve channel separation, with careful attention paid to clock design, power supply regulation, and multi-layer PCB layout. The result is a level of performance that belies the Compact Player’s size and price point.
The Compact Player pairs naturally with a preamplifier such as the Nagra PREAMP II-S or an integrated amplifier. It can also be connected directly to a power amplifier or active speakers using the app-based volume control, making it suitable for both reference and secondary systems.
Technical Specifications
- Digital playback formats: PCM up to 384 kHz, DSD 256 (DSD 4x)
- D/A conversion: Built-in high-performance DAC architecture
- DAC configuration: Two stereo DAC chips (one per channel)
- Streaming services: Qobuz, TIDAL, Spotify
- Streaming protocols: AirPlay 2, Roon Ready (certification in progress)
- Local playback: USB key, USB hard drive, UPnP / DLNA (NAS if compatible)
- Control app: mConnect (iOS and Android)
- Network connection: RJ45 Ethernet (wired connection recommended)
- Chassis: CNC-machined solid aluminum billet
- Power supply: External power supply included
- Power supply upgrade options: Nagra Compact PSU, Nagra MPS, or Nagra Classic PSU (12 V) via optional LEMO-to-DC cable
- Recommended vibration control: Nagra Compact VFS
