Cocktail Audio N25Amp: The most advanced all-in-one network player in the world

CocktailAudio has categorized its N25Amp as a comprehensive all-in-one audio solution, integrating an amplifier into the design. The N25Amp stereo receiver features a built-in amplifier that delivers 75 watts per channel. Its chassis is of standard width but designed to be slim. The front panel is equipped with a color LCD display, consistent with other larger models in the CocktailAudio range, along with two prominent rotary knobs. Additionally, the device boasts an expanded button panel that includes programmable presets and a selector for frequently used modes, a feature that has been notably absent in even the most versatile offerings from Novatron.

The CocktailAudio N25Amp shares its foundation with the previously mentioned models. It features a dual-core ARM Cortex A9 processor operating at 1 GHz and utilizes a specialized operating system stored on an integrated 8-gigabyte NAND flash memory. The networking capabilities include a gigabit LAN card. Among the primary wireless protocols, the CocktailAudio N25Amp supports Bluetooth (SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX LL, aptX HD) exclusively. For Wi-Fi connectivity, a separate USB dongle must be purchased. Additionally, the device can be upgraded with a second Bluetooth module, enabling the CocktailAudio N25Amp to stream audio to wireless headphones. This dedicated port for such a module distinguishes the “twenty-fifth” model from others.

The lack of a headphone output on the front panel and HDD slots on the rear is quite noticeable, especially since these features were present not only in the X45 but also in the more affordable N15 streamer. Additionally, the slot-loading CD drive has been removed, a change that is reflected in the model’s name (in Cocktailaudio’s lineup, all transport-equipped sources start with “X,” while those without begin with “N”). Furthermore, there are no balanced interfaces, whether analog or digital, nor is there a corrective phono input for digitizing vinyl, a feature that once impressed users of the “forty-fifth.” In summary, this device has transitioned to being “just a player” rather than a multifunctional unit.

The CocktailAudio N25Amp features the same power supply as its higher-end counterparts, incorporating isolated circuits for both digital and analog components. It also utilizes the Sabre32 Reference DAC ES9018K2M converter, renowned for its outstanding performance. This device is capable of playing a wide range of audio file formats, including WAV, AIFF, DSD, MQA, DXD, HD FLAC, and ALAC, from connected USB drives and NAS systems. Additionally, it supports streaming from various services such as Amazon Music, HighResAudio, Tidal, Deezer, Qobuz, Spotify, and Napster. Users can access a comprehensive array of international web radio stations as well as local FM and DAB broadcasts. Furthermore, the CocktailAudio N25Amp can function within its multi-room ecosystem and serve as an output point in the Roon core, making it particularly appealing to audiophiles.

Cocktail Audio N25Amp

The proprietary MusicX Neo control application has evidently undergone several significant updates in recent months, particularly the version compatible with Android 11. It now operates with enhanced speed and stability, although there is still room for improvement in the user interface. We evaluated the new product using the familiar preamp and Class A monoblocks from Xindak, paired with Aurum Cantus acoustic systems. Our initial assessments focused on the receiving capabilities. Regarding the CocktailAudio N25Amp FM tuner, we can confirm that it performs at least as effectively as contemporary AV receivers. The clarity of the sound is largely influenced by external reception conditions, the intensity of local industrial radio interference, and the quality of the antenna.

The CocktailAudio N25Amp excelled in its Bluetooth performance, delivering sound free from any unpleasant graininess or harshness often associated with other Bluetooth devices. The distinctions between SBC, AAC, and aptX codecs are clearly audible, although the benefits of the more advanced aptX HD codec are not particularly pronounced within this system. Accessing content on flash drives is nearly instantaneous, and once libraries are loaded—dependent on the drive’s capacity and speed—access is virtually seamless. Additionally, the device supports multiple formats, successfully reading FAT32, NTFS, and ExFAT drives. The sound quality of high-bitrate files from these drives was impeccable, which aligns with our previous assessments that this method of enjoying HiRes collections is superior compared to other CocktailAudio components.

Hardware Specifications

• Equipped with a high-performance dual core ARM Cortex A9 processor running at 1.0Ghz
• Combined with 150 watts powerful class D amplifier built-in
• ESS ES9018K2M Sabre32 Reference DAC chip for D-A conversion
• USB Audio Class 2.0 output for connection to external USB DACs
• Isolated power supply circuit design, separate for digital and analogue sections, to remove electrical noise
• 4.6” TFT LCD screen (800 x 320 pixels) for intuitive GUI
• DAB+/FM tuner built-in
• HDMI eARC input built-in
• HDMI output for connecting external screens, such as a TV as the GUI screen, or for audio signal output
• Bluetooth receiver built-in, with support for SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX LL, aptX HD
• USB Audio Class 2.0 input
• High quality analogue output terminals
• Digital output (1 x Coaxial, 1 x Toslink)
• Digital input (1 x Coaxial, 1 x Toslink)
• USB 3.0 high speed host port x2, on the rear panel
• USB 2.0 host port x1, on the front panel
• Giga Fast Ethernet(10/100/1000Mbps) built-in
• Five (5) custom keys on the front panel for DAB+ or FM radio presets
• Precisely CNC-machined aluminum front panel and robust rigid steel chassis

Versatile functionalities and usage

• Support for major music streaming services – Amazon Music, HighResAudio, TIDAL, TIDAL MQA, Deezer, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, Napster and Internet Radio(Airable)
• Replaygain function to normalize loudness for individual songs or albums
• MultiRoom function (Group Play)
• Spotify Connect and Apple Airplay
• Support for various file formats including MQA, DSD(64/128/256), DXD(24Bit/352.8Khz), PCM signal up to 32Bit/384Khz including 24Bit/192Khz WAV/FLAC and a full range hi-res audio file formats.
• High connectivity
• Versatile network functions such as UPnP Server/Client/Renderer, Samba Server/Client(Network File Server/Client) are supported
• Support as a certified ‘Roon Ready’ end point
• Multiple control methods with customized remote control App(NOVATRON MusicX NEO) for iOS and Android, desktop PC(Windows, Mac), IR remote control and well-organized functional keys on the device front

Optional Functions

• Bluetooth transmission function, with optional Bluetooth transmitter module
• Music server with music database, with storage is connected