NAD Shrinks the Rack with New CI Modular Series

Designed specifically for modern rack-based AV systems, the new platform introduces a trio of compact components aimed at delivering scalable, high-performance audio for residential and commercial installations. Each unit adopts an unusually small footprint, measuring just one-third of a rack width and one rack unit high, allowing integrators to deploy multiple zones of streaming and amplification within dense equipment racks.

The CI Modular Series comprises three models. The NAD CI S2 serves as a dedicated single-zone network streamer, while the NAD CI SA2-120 adds integrated amplification and BluOS streaming capability. Completing the lineup is the NAD CI PA4-60, a four-channel power amplifier intended for distributed audio systems where efficient rack utilisation is essential.

All three units integrate with NAD’s BluOS multiroom platform, allowing high-resolution streaming and centralised zone management through the broader BluOS ecosystem used across Bluesound and selected NAD components. The approach is intended to give installers a flexible foundation for multi-zone music systems that can scale across residential properties, hospitality venues, and commercial environments.

Nathan Brady, General Manager of Integrated Solutions at Amber Technology, said the series reflects a growing demand among installers for compact yet capable hardware platforms.

The CI Modular Series reflects NAD Electronics’ clear focus on the needs of today’s integrators. The compact form factor, scalability and BluOS integration make it a practical and flexible platform for residential and commercial projects across Australia. It gives our integration partners access to high-performance NAD audio in a format that supports efficient rack design and long-term system reliability.

Alongside the new modular products, NAD has also introduced updates to its existing CI DSP amplifier lineup. The company says the refreshed CI 8-150 DSP, CI 8-120 DSP and CI 16-60 DSP models now include an updated user interface with a live system dashboard for remote monitoring, expanded DSP controls including limiters, delay and phase adjustment, and improved zone grouping tools.

Additional updates include faster boot-up times, enhanced power management, password protection, and expanded API integration designed to simplify compatibility with third-party control systems used in professional AV installations.

The NAD CI Modular Series will be available from April 2026. Pricing has been confirmed at A$1,449 for the NAD CI S2 single-zone streamer, A$2,299 for the NAD CI SA2-120 BluOS streaming amplifier, and A$1,399 for the CI PA4-60 four-channel power amplifier.

For more information visit NAD Electronics