NAD 304 - User Manual

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Summary

Introduction and Product Identification

General Safety and Operational Notes

Electrical Safety Precautions

Warnings to prevent electric shock, fire hazards, and proper plug usage.

Environmental and Handling Warnings

Instructions to avoid fire, electric shock, rain, and moisture exposure.

Installation Guidance for Installers

Notes for CATV system installers on proper grounding practices.

Voltage Transformer Information

Details on multi-voltage transformers and advice for voltage conversion.

Technical Specifications and Laser Safety

Compact Disc Player Specifications

Detailed technical performance metrics for the NAD 5420/5425.

Laser System Safety

Precautions regarding the Class 1 laser system and potential radiation exposure.

Rear Panel Connections and Safety

Rear Panel Layout and Warnings

Identification of rear panel connections and associated safety warnings.

Summary

Introduction and Product Identification

General Safety and Operational Notes

Electrical Safety Precautions

Warnings to prevent electric shock, fire hazards, and proper plug usage.

Environmental and Handling Warnings

Instructions to avoid fire, electric shock, rain, and moisture exposure.

Installation Guidance for Installers

Notes for CATV system installers on proper grounding practices.

Voltage Transformer Information

Details on multi-voltage transformers and advice for voltage conversion.

Technical Specifications and Laser Safety

Compact Disc Player Specifications

Detailed technical performance metrics for the NAD 5420/5425.

Laser System Safety

Precautions regarding the Class 1 laser system and potential radiation exposure.

Rear Panel Connections and Safety

Rear Panel Layout and Warnings

Identification of rear panel connections and associated safety warnings.

The NAD 5420/5425 is a digital audio compact disc player designed for high-fidelity audio reproduction. This manual provides comprehensive instructions for its use, maintenance, and safety. The device is classified as a Class 1 laser product, emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety guidelines to prevent exposure to the laser beam.

Function Description

The primary function of the NAD 5420/5425 is to play compact discs, delivering high-quality audio output. It incorporates advanced digital-to-analogue conversion (DAC) and digital filtering technologies to ensure accurate and detailed sound reproduction. The player is capable of handling single discs, either 120 mm or 80 mm in size. It offers programming capabilities for up to 16 tracks, allowing users to customize their listening experience by selecting and arranging tracks in a desired order.

The digital-to-analogue conversion is handled by a MASH (Multi-Stage Noise Shaping) 18-bit resolution system. This technology is known for its ability to reduce quantization noise and improve linearity, resulting in a cleaner and more accurate audio signal. The digital filter employs 4-times over-sampling with linear phase and 18-bit coefficients. Over-sampling effectively shifts quantization noise to higher frequencies, where it can be more easily removed by the analogue filter, further enhancing sound quality.

An active 5-pole analogue filter is used to smooth the audio signal after digital-to-analogue conversion, removing any remaining high-frequency noise and artifacts. This multi-pole design ensures a steep roll-off, preserving the integrity of the audio signal within the audible range.

The player incorporates robust digital error correction using CIRC (Cross-Interleave Reed-Solomon Code) with double error correction in C1 and C2. This system is designed to detect and correct errors that may occur due to imperfections or damage on the compact disc, ensuring uninterrupted playback and maintaining audio fidelity.

Usage Features

The front panel of the NAD 5420/5425 features a clear and intuitive layout for easy operation.

Power Button (1): Located on the left side of the front panel, this button is used to turn the unit on and off.
Disc Tray (2): The central tray where compact discs are loaded. It is designed for smooth and reliable disc insertion and removal.
Open/Close Button (3): This button controls the opening and closing of the disc tray, allowing users to load or remove a disc.
Play/Pause Button (4): Initiates playback of the disc or pauses it during playback. A single press will start playback, and another press will pause it.
Stop Button (5): Halts disc playback. When pressed, the disc will stop spinning, and the player will return to a ready state.
Program/Repeat Button (6, 7): These buttons are used for programming tracks and setting repeat functions. Users can select specific tracks to play in a desired sequence, and also choose to repeat a single track, the entire disc, or a programmed sequence.
Skip/Scan Control (8): This control allows users to navigate through tracks and scan within a track. The "Skip" function moves to the next or previous track, while the "Scan" function allows for fast forward or rewind within a track, enabling quick location of specific passages.
Display (9): A digital display provides information about the current track number, elapsed time, and other operational statuses.
Remote Control (5425 Only): The NAD 5425 model includes a remote control for convenient operation from a distance. The remote control duplicates most of the front panel functions, including Play, Pause, Stop, Skip, and Scan.

The rear panel connections are straightforward, featuring "LINE OUT" (L and R) for connecting the player to an amplifier or receiver. These analogue outputs provide the processed audio signal for further amplification and playback through speakers.

Maintenance Features

The NAD 5420/5425 is designed for reliable performance, but certain precautions and maintenance guidelines are essential for its longevity and safe operation.

Internal Conversion for Voltage: Some NAD products, including potentially this model, are equipped with dual or multi-voltage transformers. If a voltage change is required, it must be performed by an authorized NAD service technician. Attempting internal conversion without proper authorization and expertise can be dangerous and may void the warranty.
Laser Safety: As a Class 1 laser product, the unit contains a laser system. Users are explicitly warned not to open the enclosure to prevent exposure to the laser beam. Any servicing or troubleshooting that requires opening the unit should only be performed by qualified service personnel.
Environmental Protection: To prevent fire or electric shock, the appliance should not be exposed to rain or moisture. This also implies keeping the unit in a dry environment and avoiding spills.
Power Plug Safety: For models with a polarized plug, it is crucial not to use it with an extension cord, receptacle, or other outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted to prevent blade exposure. This is a standard safety measure to prevent electric shock.
Servicing: In case of any trouble with the unit, users are advised to contact an authorized NAD service station. The manual explicitly states that there are no user-serviceable parts inside and that servicing should be referred to qualified personnel. This ensures that any repairs or adjustments are made correctly and safely, maintaining the unit's performance and safety standards.
Compliance: The product complies with DHHS Rules 21 CFR Subchapter J, Part 1040.10 and 1040.11, which are regulations related to laser products, further underscoring the importance of adhering to safety instructions.

The device is built to NAD's high standards, but proper handling and adherence to the manual's guidelines are key to enjoying its performance for many years. Regular cleaning of the exterior with a soft, dry cloth is generally sufficient for cosmetic maintenance. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents that could damage the finish.