Dual monaural circuit and fully-balanced design

A dual monaural circuit configuration is used throughout, from the power supply (including power transformers) to the D/A converters in the digital section and the Analog output stage. From the high-performance D/A converters to the massive toroidal-core power transformers, each element is configured for single-channel processing. This prevents mutual interference effects while reproducing a rich acoustic expressiveness. In addition, the Analog audio signals of both the left and right channels are processed in full balanced mode soon after the D/A converters all the way to the output terminal, contributing to an improved S/N ratio and extended dynamic range.

Supports Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Qobuz, and TuneIn

By connecting the unit to a home network using a LAN cable, music files saved on NAS music servers and computers can be accessed and played back. In addition, this unit also supports the Spotify, TIDAL, and Qobuz subscription Internet music streaming services. These enable listening to tens of millions of lossless CD-quality (44.1kHz/16bit) music tracks.

MQA decoder for master quality streaming

In order to achieve an Analog waveform closer to the original signal, the NT-505-X supports MQA decoding while also supporting a high sampling rate.

The MQA decoder is a new technology that controls analog waveforms with precision and it reproduces sound in a manner that is perceived to be as close as possible to the original (to human hearing).

Furthermore, a high-efficiency compression algorithm makes huge Hi-Res audio files compact in size, so you will be able to enjoy Hi-Res audio sources regardless of the speed of your Internet connection

"Bulk Pet" USB transfer technology for enhanced audio quality

When transferring large volumes of digital data for Hi-Res audio sources through USB cables using conventional isochronous transfer mode, large variations can occur in the processing loads of the sending computer and the receiving USB DAC.

This can cause sound to drop out and other problems to occur. However, with our new USB transmission technology - dubbed "Bulk Pet" - a fixed amount of data is transmitted constantly, leveling out the processing burden on both devices and contributing to stable data transmission.

Changing the processing burden on the computer directly affects audio quality so users can select the setting they prefer (from four transmission modes).

"Bulk Pet" is a registered trademark of Interface Corporation.

7 types of PCM digital filters

There are seven types of PCM digital filters, allowing you to apply the filter that best matches the file format or type of music you're listening to. The filter can be changed at the touch of a button on the remote control, allowing you to enjoy the different sonic nuances of each filter.

Dual high-capacity toroidal-core power transformers

The dual monaural theme continues. Two over-sized high-capacity toroidal-core power transformers are employed in the NT-505-X, supplying stable, individual current sources for each of the left and right channels. This means neither channel will be affected by changes in the power consumption of the other during digital processing.

TEAC-QVCS four-circuit-structure high-precision volume control newly incorporated for preamp circuits

TEAC-QVCS (Quad Volume Control System) is used for the volume circuit. This electronic volume control is a variable gain amp type comprised of four discrete circuits for left, right, positive and negative (L+, L−, R+, R−). By placing the variable gain amp volume control, which processes in analog, in the audio signal path on the circuit board, issues with noise resulting from diverging wiring are avoided.
Furthermore, this TEAC-QVCS enables volume adjustment in 0.5dB increments, allowing you to set the perfect volume for your audio system or headphones.

Carefully crafted line amp section can also be used as a headphone amplifier

The improved TEAC-HCLD2 circuit also has high drive capability as a headphone amp, so you can plug in multiple types of headphones. In addition, the NT-505-X supports the Ground Separate connection by separating circuit ground on both Left and Right channels from the amplifier section to the headphone jack, to improve channel separation which is crucial for headphone listening, while delivering clear sound with a wide visible sound stage.

All-metal enclosure for vibration resistance

Since the entire body is constructed from metal panels that are resistant to external noise, intrusion of electromagnetic noise generated by computers and other devices is suppressed. A clean internal environment with little noise has been realized even in conditions that are difficult for audio equipment. Furthermore, 8mm-thick aluminum panels covering both sides of the all-metal chassis provide a strong and stable structure that prevents twisting and bending. The unit can be placed on a desk, side table, or any other small space.

Symmetrically laid out XLR and RCA output jacks

The NT-505-X is equipped with both balanced and unbalanced analog audio outputs. A pair of XLR connectors and another pair of RCA connectors - each gold-plated - are symmetrically laid out, hinting at the dual monaural arrangement inside, and allowing a wide range of possible audio configurations. A wide-spaced pitch layout for the RCA outputs accommodates professional-grade plugs with large-diameter shells. The NT-505-X has a total of 5 digital inputs: USB audio, coaxial, optical on the rear panel, and a combination jack on the front panel (for coaxial and optical, supporting PCM 24bit/192kHz and DSD64 (2.8MHz) in DoP format).