Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- The ATC CD2 uses a TEAC transport mechanism chosen for improvements in error correction, mechanical noise, load speed, and reliability
- It features an AKM4490EQ DAC, which ATC felt offered outstanding measured performance and a neutral sonic character
- It delivers a clear and resolved analogue signal that leaves very little behind, offering precision
- The CD2 has both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs, and also coaxial and optical digital outputs
Product Considerations
- The CD2's remote control is described as plasticky with rubber buttons and a little bit counter intuitive
- Operationally, the CD2 is rather quirky, as there is no marked pause button and pressing the large button on the remote that looks like a track skip button will in fact scan the track currently playing
- At 31cm wide, the cabinet of the ATC CD2 has an unusual size, making it almost impossible to match with other equipment that way
- There are no digital inputs to take advantage of the AKM 32-bit DAC
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The ATC CD2 sounds at least as good as a Qobuz 24-bit, 96kHz version, delivering R.E.Ms Automatic for the People opener Drive with a precision that is matched only by the Altair G2.1 streaming DAC
- Compared to some digital sources, the CD2's emphasis is on the spiritual message, bypassing intellect and going straight for your endorphin generators
- The ATC CD2 sounds more direct and emotionally connected than more polished players
Takeaway: The ATC CD2 is a well-designed CD player with a focus on accuracy and musicality, using high-quality components. With its neutral sound and ability to engage the listener, it is a great option for those seeking silver disc simplicity.
Compared to their other products
We think it's helpful to understand how this product fits into the brand's full lineup (below). To learn more about these products, visit the brand's page.
SCM7 MK3
- Positioning: The entry-level model in ATC's loudspeaker lineup.
- Description: Features a compact design and precise sound, with a 25mm soft dome tweeter and a 125mm mid-bass driver. Compared to the SCM19, it offers a smaller footprint, making it ideal for small rooms or desktop setups, but it lacks the larger bass driver and higher sensitivity found in the SCM19.
SCM19
- Positioning: A mid-range model in the Entry Series, offering a balance between performance and size.
- Description: Features an "SL" spec bass driver and 75mm integral soft dome, providing excellent phase coherence and bass response. It offers a more robust soundstage than the SCM7 MK3.
SCM19A
- Positioning: An active version of the SCM19, positioned as a higher-end option within the Entry Series.
- Description: Includes an on-board 182-watt Class A/B bi-amplifier, delivering enhanced sound clarity and power. It uses active crossover filters, unlike the passive SCM19, which requires external amplification.
SCM40A
- Positioning: The groundbreaking flagship model of the Entry Series, offering the most advanced features and performance.
- Description: Equipped with a tri-amplifier system and a 164mm bass driver, providing exceptional sound quality and dynamic range. It surpasses the SCM19A with its additional mid-range driver and higher power output.
Read the reviews
CD2
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Manufacturer's notes
Our take on the brand
Used
ATC
What if you spend a bit more?
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In the tradition of our compact streaming CD receivers, a new high performance version of our Inspiration All-in-One has been created based on the AVM X-Stream Engine®. Numerous innovations have been incorporated and also the new RCX APP completely controls the CS 2.3. A main focus was put on a completely modernized APP control, the new AVM X-Stream Engine® can stream all high resolution formats, including DSD (256). This streaming engine is a complete in-house development and is completely software based, thus can be updated online future-proof.
An HDMI (ARC) interface is on board as well as the modern Bluetooth 5.0 connection, further digital inputs and a USB A interface are standard. A high-performance phono input stage MM and MC is also back in the game. New are the digital outputs, which can now also be volume controlled. Also purely sonically a giant leap has resulted here to the predecessor CS 2.2.
The completely new amplifier stages are based on the large CS 8.3 and, with 140 watts of continuous power, drive any speaker easily. The digital section in the CS was developed in the course of the new development completely new, so now comes here the new D/A converter from the new ESS generation (9038 Q 2 M) to use, sonically also a clear gain, which benefits all digital sources and reproduces all high-resolution formats perfectly and faithfully.
The CS 2.3 are available in the standard colors aluminum silver or black, on request also as an elegant CELLINI version with chrome front. Like all AVM Inspiration devices, the CS 2.3 are handmade in the factory in Malsch, Germany. Most of the suppliers, e.g. for the precise housing parts, are also located in the immediate vicinity. Repeated, intensive quality controls during all production steps and a break-in period of several days for each individual device ensure our promise of the highest reliability in the long term and we grant a 2-year warranty on the compact CS, with online registration 2 additional years.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Compact size, making it suitable for smaller spaces and versatile placement
- True all-in-one system integrating a CD player, streamer, DAC, phono stage (MM & MC), and amplifier
- Stable and fast app control for comprehensive management of features and music collections
- Large soundstage with nice imaging
- Phono stage is better than expected
- Connectivity options are comprehensive
Product Considerations
- Optional remote control is an added expense
- Front fascia controls are considered eccentric or half-hearted
- Some reviewers found the high frequencies to be bright and thin
- Speaker binding posts are small and may not accommodate larger spade lugs
- Streamer could be better
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The AVM CS 2.3 includes a CD drive, while the Cambridge Audio EVO 150 does not, the phono stage in the EVO 150 is only MM
Takeaway: The AVM Inspiration CS 2.3 is a compact and versatile all-in-one system that combines streaming, CD playback, and amplification into one device, making it a convenient solution for many music lovers. It is a good choice for people wanting a small but mighty stereo.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Can act as a DAC and play anything that's not vinyl at an excellent level
- High quality chassis, connectors, and buttons exude a high-end feel
- Features a smooth-operating 'LxDTM' mechanism that eliminates vibration and noise during disc playback
- Handled tracks with exceptional control, dynamics, and large soundscapes
- Outstanding fit, finish, and engineering
Product Considerations
- Fast forward and fast reverse across track breaks is not allowed, making comparisons difficult
- Absolute-polarity selection is only available on the front panel, not the remote
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The D-07X is positioned between the D-03X and D-10X in Luxman's lineup
- Compared to the Luxman D-10X, the D-10X produces an even larger soundstage with images more clearly defined and dynamics handled with more poise—it has a slightly more full bodied balance and is less forward in overall presentation
Takeaway: The Luxman D-07X is a versatile and high-quality SACD/CD player and DAC that delivers a smooth and musical sound. It is an investment for those who appreciate physical media.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Electrocompaniet EMC 1 MKV offers a consistently detailed sound with tonal nuance and vibrancy
- It is a well-engineered machine that is a real pleasure to use
- The Electrocompaniet EMC 1 MKV is an intrinsically 'organic-sounding' player, which results in a very natural feel
- The mechanical filter is designed to remove both internal and external vibrations from entering the laser pick-up assembly, which in turn is said to bring sonic benefits to the unit
Product Considerations
- The included remote is plasticky and not as high quality as the player itself
- The Perspex front panel is a magnet for fingerprints
- It only plays CDs and does not have digital inputs for use with other devices
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Leema CD player using both players' internal converters, the Electrocompaniet wins hands down, but so it should given the price difference between the two
- Vs Leema DAC, CD via the Electrocompaniet had a more involving sound, though perhaps not as analytically precise as the rip through Roon and the Leema DAC, particularly at the top end
- Vs Leema Essentials as a transport only, the Electrocompaniet wins in every way—more stability to the image, more welly and more detail throughout
Takeaway: The Electrocompaniet EMC 1 MKV is a great CD player that makes CDs sound thrillingly musical, and it's built to last. If you love CDs, it will draw you into the music and make you want to listen for hours.
Video review
Our take on the brand
The 102 CD player from Burmester’s Classic Line combines a purist and elegant appearance with the traditional high standards in manufacturing quality and musicality. Its ideal playing partner within the Burmester portfolio is the 101 integrated Class-D amplifier, especially when combined with a pair of Burmester loudspeakers. The 102 is a direct-drive CD player with a front-loading CD drawer. Thus, it can easily be integrated into an audio system where space is tight. The sophisticated analog output stages receive their signals from a latest-generation conversion unit. It offers different upsampling rates, which may be selected according to personal preferences.
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Gorgeous sonic performance
- Extraordinary playback quality
- Deep bass and a black and hash-free background
- Strong on precision but not lacking warmth
Product Considerations
- The display is rather basic; it won't show sample rate information
- Only has a coaxial (phono) connector for electrical digital input, requiring a USB-to-S/PDIF adapter for computer sources
- The CD drawer has a plastic tray
Takeaway: The Burmester 102 CD player provides a smooth and powerful sound with good precision. It offers excellent playback quality, making it a worthwhile addition to any audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What else competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Combines a disc player, DAC, and streaming capabilities into one unit, serving as a versatile digital hub
- Excellent build quality and premium materials
- Delivers a controlled and clear sonic performance across all sources
- Supports a wide array of digital formats, including CD, SACD, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, ALAC, MP3, DSF, and DFF
- Includes various connectivity options such as USB-A, USB-B, coaxial, optical, Ethernet, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Spotify Connect
Product Considerations
- The Technics app is described as clunky and underwhelming, and initial setup requires using Google Home
- The front panel display is a small monochrome display and can appear busy
- Requires careful system matching, and it may sound undemonstrative/edgy in wrong circumstances
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rotel Diamond Series DT-6000: The Technics offers streaming and SACD-playing capabilities, and the Technics build quality is also more robust
Takeaway: The SL-G700M2 offers a very versatile digital source and hub due to its ability to play many different media and file formats. The premium build quality and its excellent audio performance make it a great addition to any audio system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Very musical and pleasant to listen to, with an analog sound and no hard edges
- Offers a multi-layered soundstage with excellent separation between instruments and vocals
- Great timing, which enhances musicality and engagement
- New design is consistent with the new products and is a good change
Product Considerations
- The play button is in a strange spot and can be hard to figure out, the remote buttons are small
- Only plays standard Redbook CDs
- Has a BNC digital output, which may not be compatible with all DACs
- No standby button
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Viking does not sparkle as much on the top end as the Cambridge Audio, but moves the heart more
- The Viking has more resolution and texture in the mid-range than the Creek
- Esoteric is more detailed, while Viking is more musical
- The Viking has better dynamic contrast and potent bass reproduction than the Marantz and Primare
Takeaway: The Viking CD player is a great choice for those who want to enjoy their CD collection without the complexities of streaming. It delivers a high level of musicality and engagement, making it a worthwhile investment for CD enthusiasts.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers excellent clarity and detail resolution, extracting a high level of information from CDs
- Offers strong dynamics and a powerful, articulate low-end performance
- Precise and controlled sound—described as fast, agile, and with good timing
- Designed to reduce noise through power supply design, DAC optimization and component choice
- Plays CDs with a full-bodied and sophisticated character
Product Considerations
- Front panel control buttons can be inconsistent in their responsiveness
- Some reviewers feel the design is too similar to older Cyrus models and not a significant departure for a new upmarket range
- The display is small and not particularly legible from a distance
- Tonal balance can lean to the leaner side and has the ability to sound like it has too much of an edge when matched with a bright sounding system
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The CDi-XR delivers detail in a more dynamic fashion and left the OPPO standing
- It was also able to better differentiate harmonies than the OPPO
Takeaway: The Cyrus CDi-XR is a well-built CD player that pulls more data from CDs than any other and provides a great, energetic sound. This is a solid choice to make the most of a CD collection.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Rega Saturn MkIII combines well-thought-out connectivity with special performance
- Sounds fantastic across both CD and digital inputs
- Well-made and easy to use
- Delivers the musical message dynamically, emotionally, and in terms of rhythm and pace
- Rega has an enviable track record for reliability and service
Product Considerations
- The top-loading mechanism requires more space than a tray-based CD player
- The DAC is limited to 192 kHz
- Does not play SACDs
- Some reviewers found the Solaris remote control to have too many buttons
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Sounds the same as the Saturn R, with the exception of the front panel
- Compared to some Naim CD players, the Rega will sound more reserved, but it depends on the rest of the system and its tonal balance and presentation
Takeaway: The Rega Saturn MkIII is a well-built and reliable CD player/DAC that delivers a compelling and engaging musical experience from a CD collection. It is especially suitable for those who value musical timing and coherence.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers CDs with rich detail in a layered fashion
- Has an impeccably drawn soundstage that projects both front and back
- Offers a sweet, airy, and delicate touch with a plumped bottom end
- Functions as both a CD spinner and standalone DAC, with digital outputs enabling use as a CD transport
- The DAC picks out detail with even greater purpose—without losing its slightly honeyed tone
Product Considerations
- Operation isn't very intuitive and could use more joined-up thinking between the controls
- Takes around 45 seconds to start up while its tubes are pre-heated
- Dynamic attack could be snappier
- The orange dot-matrix display might not appeal to everyone
Takeaway: The Canor CD 2.10 is a lush-sounding player and DAC that delivers rich detail and a wide soundstage, making it a great choice for those who prioritize pure audio performance. It is well-made in Europe and produces a top sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- The ATC CD2 uses a TEAC transport mechanism chosen for improvements in error correction, mechanical noise, load speed, and reliability
- It features an AKM4490EQ DAC, which ATC felt offered outstanding measured performance and a neutral sonic character
- It delivers a clear and resolved analogue signal that leaves very little behind, offering precision
- The CD2 has both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs, and also coaxial and optical digital outputs
Product Considerations
- The CD2's remote control is described as plasticky with rubber buttons and a little bit counter intuitive
- Operationally, the CD2 is rather quirky, as there is no marked pause button and pressing the large button on the remote that looks like a track skip button will in fact scan the track currently playing
- At 31cm wide, the cabinet of the ATC CD2 has an unusual size, making it almost impossible to match with other equipment that way
- There are no digital inputs to take advantage of the AKM 32-bit DAC
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The ATC CD2 sounds at least as good as a Qobuz 24-bit, 96kHz version, delivering R.E.Ms Automatic for the People opener Drive with a precision that is matched only by the Altair G2.1 streaming DAC
- Compared to some digital sources, the CD2's emphasis is on the spiritual message, bypassing intellect and going straight for your endorphin generators
- The ATC CD2 sounds more direct and emotionally connected than more polished players
Takeaway: The ATC CD2 is a well-designed CD player with a focus on accuracy and musicality, using high-quality components. With its neutral sound and ability to engage the listener, it is a great option for those seeking silver disc simplicity.
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