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
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Double belt drive system reduces mechanical noise and improves speed stability
- Can upsample the digital signal to 24 bits and 88.2 or 176.4 kHz
- Superlink (I2S) connection allows direct signal transfer to compatible DACs, minimizing jitter
- Solid build quality with a heavy CD stabilizer (380g) ensures stable disc rotation
Product Considerations
- Standard remote control is considered basic, though an optional metal remote is available but not included
- Sober appearance may not stand out aesthetically
- Short BNC cables are included
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Ayon and Gryphon drives, the C.E.C. TL2N has clear differences in sound, modifying the signal distinctly—sounding more like a turntable
- The C.E.C. TL2N shares a similar incredibly pleasant sound when compared to Kronos Pro Mk.II
Takeaway: The C.E.C. TL2N offers a unique listening experience with its belt-drive mechanism and focus on direct signal transfer. Its warm, engaging character aims to bring the listener closer to the music.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
TL 2N
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Drive System: Double Belt Drive // Spindle & Pick-up
- Playable Discs: Audio CDs & Finalized CD-R/RWs
- Power Supply: AC 230/120 V, 50/60 Hz
- CD Stabilizer: Diameter 120mm, weight 380g (brass)
- Digital Outputs: SUPERLINK (2.5Vp-p/75 ohm, BNC x 4), AES/EBU (2.5Vp-p/110Ω), COAXIAL (0.5Vp-p/75Ω), TOS (-21 ~ -15dBm EIAJ)
- Word clock: BNC x 1: 44.1kHz
- Up-sampling: 24bit / 88.2kHz, 176.4kHz
- Power Consumption: 21W
- Dimensions: 435(W) x 335(D) x 111(H)mm
- Weight: 12 kg
- Color: Silver or Black
Description
CEC opened a new chapter in music reproduction in 1991 with the world's first Belt Drive CD Transport, the now infamous TL 1. Creative mastery of vibration control techniques resulted in this landmark product, whose uniquely analog musicality has been hailed as nothing less than revolutionary in digital audio. Since then CEC has continued to improve on it's designs and launched many globaly highly aclaimed and awarded devices. With the CEC TL 2N, the breakthroughs of the previous double belt drive systems have been refined even further than we imagined possible!
CEC opened a new chapter in music reproduction in 1991 with the world's first Belt Drive CD Transport, the now infamous TL 1. Creative mastery of vibration control techniques resulted in this landmark product, whose uniquely analog musicality has been hailed as nothing less than revolutionary in digital audio. Since then CEC has continued to improve on it's designs and launched many globaly highly aclaimed and awarded devices.
With the CEC TL 2N, the breakthroughs of the previous double belt drive systems have been refined even further than we imagined possible! The completely new developt double belt drive mechanism has been installed to be fully centered on a larger aluminum chassis for increased stablization of rotation and no adjustment of mechanism height. While the double belt drive system with the large diameter precision flywheel stabilizer improves the accuracy of reading the music signal.
The detail, richness of tone and spatial information are just breathtaking. The concentrated application of technical knowledge, innovative capacity and decades of experience have paid off. Pride, craftsmanship, and music reproduction on compact disc have reached a new summit with the CEC TL 2N.
In order to read the signal recorded with Constant Linear Velocity (CLV) on the CD, rotational speed should be decreased as it tracks the outer edge of the disk. Usually the spindle motor ...
With the CEC TL 2N, the breakthroughs of the previous double belt drive systems have been refined even further than we imagined possible! The completely new developt double belt drive mechanism has been installed to be fully centered on a larger aluminum chassis for increased stablization of rotation and no adjustment of mechanism height. While the double belt drive system with the large diameter precision flywheel stabilizer improves the accuracy of reading the music signal.
The detail, richness of tone and spatial information are just breathtaking. The concentrated application of technical knowledge, innovative capacity and decades of experience have paid off. Pride, craftsmanship, and music reproduction on compact disc have reached a new summit with the CEC TL 2N.
In order to read the signal recorded with Constant Linear Velocity (CLV) on the CD, rotational speed should be decreased as it tracks the outer edge of the disk. Usually the spindle motor ...
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- CEC CD transports uniquely incorporate a belt-drive mechanism, separating the motor from the spindle to reduce vibration and electromagnetic noise, a design principle borrowed from high-end turntables.
- CEC transports often employ a heavy stabilizer puck, reminiscent of a record clamp, which further enhances rotational stability and minimizes internal reflections, improving sonic clarity.
- The sound signature leans towards a dense, saturated midrange, often described as "analog-like", providing a rich and engaging listening experience that minimizes harshness and digital artifacts.
- They offer a proprietary "Superlink" connection, using multiple BNC cables to separately transmit clock and data signals, aimed at minimizing jitter and improving overall data integrity when paired with compatible DACs.
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Avg. Product Price
$5,001-$10,000
Used For Sale
32
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Brand Popularity
175
of 900+
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Top 50 Brand
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Products Listed
17
Founding Year
1954
Our take on the brand
CEC pioneered the world's first belt-driven CD transport in 1991, using this unique design across their product line to reduce vibration and create an analog-like sound quality that's rare among CD players. Their Superlink system uses four separate cables to improve digital signal quality, while their belt-driven approach and high-mass disc clamps are specifically designed to mimic the stability of analog turntables.
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What if you spend more?
Metronome
Le Player 4+
10800
10800
/
4
Reviews
The Player 4+ is the affordable premium DAC and CD player for all audiophiles, characterized by fabulous sound reproduction. The converter part is accessible through the USB or S / P DIF input and decodes all audio file formats up to DSD 512. In its silver or black aluminum livery, the Player 4/4+ will integrate its premium finish with the greatest elegance.
Métronome is a hifi brand that lets users choose between tube or transistor output modes in their DACs, and offers dual conversion lines (ESS and AKM) in their flagship c|AQWO 2 model. Their products support high-resolution formats including PCM up to 384 kHz and DSD512, while their transports uniquely allow up-sampling and down-sampling during playback.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality
- Superb sound in a single box
- Recreates music effortlessly and naturally with reference-level clarity, coherence, and transparency
- Offers a digital streaming option
- Commendable connectivity
Product Considerations
- The streaming app functionality was found to be sub-optimal, specifically the mconnect player
- The remote control doesn't match the same quality as the unit itself
- If the existing system is lean/analytical, the Metronome might not be the first choice
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Performance is a little more on the lively side of neutral, but still very well composed, and not so far from the Gryphon's performance
Takeaway: The Le Player 4+ offers superb sound and build quality with the added bonus of a digital streaming option, which is great for audiophiles still interested in CD collections. It functions as a complete digital hub, negating the need to purchase separate components.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Métronome is a hifi brand that lets users choose between tube or transistor output modes in their DACs, and offers dual conversion lines (ESS and AKM) in their flagship c|AQWO 2 model. Their products support high-resolution formats including PCM up to 384 kHz and DSD512, while their transports uniquely allow up-sampling and down-sampling during playback.
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Accuphase
DP-570
13975
13975
/
2
Reviews
Equipped with quiet and smooth disc loading, the high rigidity and low center of gravity of the SA-CD/CD drive vastly improves readability, while the MDS+ type D/A converter with four parallel circuits accurately reads disc information and converts analog signals. It also supports a digital connection with a voicing equalizer and provides a programmable playlist feature that lets you enjoy listening in the order you prefer. Enjoy listening to the DP-570, the next step in the pursuit of the ideal disc playback experience.
Accuphase is a highly respected Japanese amplifier brand, renowned for its ability to deliver lifelike sound reproduction. Their amplifiers are known for their exceptional phase coherence, which creates an engaging, natural listening experience that appeals to musicians and audiophiles alike.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Plays CDs and SACDs
- Lower noise floor than the DP450, resulting in a darker sound
- Bass notes are richer sounding compared to the DP450
- More soundstage in terms of width and height compared to the DP450
- More three-dimensionality in sound compared to the DP450, with better placement of instruments
- More texture and detail to the sound
Product Considerations
- Not the cheapest option for a CD/SACD player
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs DP450: DP-570 has a lot lower noise floor, so it was quite a lot darker sounding, and also the bass notes were particularly richer sounding
- Vs DP450: DP-570 has more detail, better positioning of elements, and sound stages
- Vs DP450: DP-570 offers a wider soundstage
Takeaway: The DP-570 is a great CD/SACD player if you are looking for richer sound and detail. It offers great improvements in soundstage and dimensionality compared to other models.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Accuphase is a highly respected Japanese amplifier brand, renowned for its ability to deliver lifelike sound reproduction. Their amplifiers are known for their exceptional phase coherence, which creates an engaging, natural listening experience that appeals to musicians and audiophiles alike.
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T+A
MP 2500 R G3
14990
14990
/
2
Reviews
T+A is a hifi brand that combines transistor and valve technologies in their HV-Series amplifiers, using high voltage for linear performance, while their A 200 Power Amplifier uses PURIFI Eigentakt technology for low distortion regardless of speaker load.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Equipped with the same SACD drive as T+A's high-end SACD player, the MP 3100 HV
- Developed to reproduce high-resolution audio files without any trace of compromise
- Equipped with both symmetrical (XLR) and asymmetrical (RCA) analogue outputs, it features a jitter-free digital output
- As a source controller, it is equipped for pretty much every contingency
- The built-in digital tuner offers FM, FM-HD, and DAB+ capabilities
Product Considerations
- The Music Navigator app refused to acknowledge the presence of the MP 2500 R, a message appearing that the app was only compatible with T+A's Cala CDR/SR and MP8 network devices
- There was no sign of the player on the Roon network, so clearly this will come in a future update
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs MP 3100 HV: The MP 2500 R comes equipped with the same SACD drive as T+A's high-end SACD player—the MP 3100 HV
Takeaway: The MP 2500 R is a versatile multi-source player that can play SACDs, stream music, and tune into radio. It has high-resolution audio capabilities and offers many connectivity options, making it a convenient addition to any hifi system
Video review
Our take on the brand
T+A is a hifi brand that combines transistor and valve technologies in their HV-Series amplifiers, using high voltage for linear performance, while their A 200 Power Amplifier uses PURIFI Eigentakt technology for low distortion regardless of speaker load.
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ESOTERIC
K-05XD
12000
12000
/
2
Reviews
Esoteric is a Japanese hifi brand that manufactures CD and SACD players with their unique VRDS technology, which provides superior stability in disc playback through a rigid disc-clamping system. Their products are built in Tokyo with proprietary technologies like the Master Sound Discrete DAC, and their Grandioso series is considered among the world's best for sonic capabilities.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Impressively pristine sonic presentation with exceptional clarity and detail resolution
- Solid aluminum block construction, crafted with precision
- The VRDS-ATLAS 05 drive ensures undisturbed readout and smooth rotation of discs
- Exceptionally open, transparent sound
Product Considerations
- Price puts it beyond the means of most
- The floating top plate can be disconcerting upon unpacking
Takeaway: The Esoteric K-05XD is a beautifully built and high-performing SACD/CD player that plays back music with integrity. It is filled with top-notch electronics and mechanics to portray the emotional facets of music in all its nuances.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Esoteric is a Japanese hifi brand that manufactures CD and SACD players with their unique VRDS technology, which provides superior stability in disc playback through a rigid disc-clamping system. Their products are built in Tokyo with proprietary technologies like the Master Sound Discrete DAC, and their Grandioso series is considered among the world's best for sonic capabilities.
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What competes at this price?
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AVM
Inspiration CS 2.3
6995
/
Released
2022
The CS 2.3 continues the tradition of compact streaming CD receivers and represents a high-performance version of the Inspiration All-in-One. It is built on the innovative AVM X-STREAM Engine® and features numerous advancements, making it a modern streaming and audio all-rounder.
AVM Audio is distinctive for its modular product design that lets users customize and expand their systems, setting it apart in the hifi industry. Their amplifiers feature specialized engineering choices like dual mono power supplies and class-A operation for the first 5 watts per channel, combined with high power output of 180 watts per channel into 8 ohms.
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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
AVM Audio is distinctive for its modular product design that lets users customize and expand their systems, setting it apart in the hifi industry. Their amplifiers feature specialized engineering choices like dual mono power supplies and class-A operation for the first 5 watts per channel, combined with high power output of 180 watts per channel into 8 ohms.
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Luxman
D-07X
9995
/
Released
2023
Many of the audio formats available today are undergoing a transformational period. By providing digital circuitry that supports advanced, high resolution file formats and the latest DAC environment, this model brings out unprecedented excitement from CDs and SACDs, which are still in an important position as audio media. The D-07X inherits the luxurious styling and oustanding performance our flagship model, the D-10X. This advanced digital media player delivers overwhelming performance. It truly conveys the ambience and feeling of recorded music over a wide range of media, delivering the finest listening experience.
Luxman is distinguished by its proprietary LECUA volume control technology and unique negative feedback system, both designed to maintain exceptional sound quality at low volumes while reducing distortion. The brand's integrated amplifiers feature precision resistors, advanced phono preamps, and rare tone controls that allow users to fine-tune their listening experience, all housed in durable, classic-styled components.
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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
Luxman is distinguished by its proprietary LECUA volume control technology and unique negative feedback system, both designed to maintain exceptional sound quality at low volumes while reducing distortion. The brand's integrated amplifiers feature precision resistors, advanced phono preamps, and rare tone controls that allow users to fine-tune their listening experience, all housed in durable, classic-styled components.
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Electrocompaniet
EMC 1 MKV SE
6800
/
Released
Since 1998, Electrocompaniet has produced one of the best sounding CD players on the market, the EMC 1 UP. The new EMC 1 MKV SE builds upon this legacy and refines by using a new drive unit. The MKV SE also introduces updated electronics for better sonic performance, new mechanics for more rigid construction and brand new chassis with updated design to be in line with the new MKII edition of our other products.
Electrocompaniet, a nearly 50-year-old hifi brand recognized by audiophiles and major recording studios worldwide, specializes in amplifiers with unique features like Floating Transformer Technology and fully balanced operation. Their amplifiers are designed with direct-coupled high open-loop bandwidth topology and zero feedback class A operation.
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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
Electrocompaniet, a nearly 50-year-old hifi brand recognized by audiophiles and major recording studios worldwide, specializes in amplifiers with unique features like Floating Transformer Technology and fully balanced operation. Their amplifiers are designed with direct-coupled high open-loop bandwidth topology and zero feedback class A operation.
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Burmester
102
10000
/
Released
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.
Burmester, a high-end audio brand renowned for its German craftsmanship, designs and handcrafts its components in Berlin. Known for its distinctive industrial aesthetic with chrome finishes, the brand supplies premium sound systems for Porsche and Mercedes-Benz.
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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
Burmester, a high-end audio brand renowned for its German craftsmanship, designs and handcrafts its components in Berlin. Known for its distinctive industrial aesthetic with chrome finishes, the brand supplies premium sound systems for Porsche and Mercedes-Benz.
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Accuphase
DP-450
7975
/
Released
2021
Accuphase has spent 35 years developing CD players in pursuit of the best in disc playback. The DP-450 CD player combines a number of innovative technologies, including a CD drive mechanism with a strong integrated structure, high-quality elastic dampers that protect the lensactuator from vssibration, and MDS+ type D/A converters with four parallel circuits. The DP-450 extracts the full potential of any CD to deliver a listening experience that stays with you.
Accuphase is a highly respected Japanese amplifier brand, renowned for its ability to deliver lifelike sound reproduction. Their amplifiers are known for their exceptional phase coherence, which creates an engaging, natural listening experience that appeals to musicians and audiophiles alike.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Accuphase DP450 sounds fantastic and goes great with just about any component
- Very neutral sounding
Product Considerations
- Just a CD player, so it will only play standard CDs (not SACDs)
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs DP570: The DP570 has a much lower noise floor, was quite a lot darker sounding, and the bass notes were particularly richer sounding
- Vs DP570: DP570 brings more detail, better positioning of elements, and sound stages
- Vs DP570: DP570 has more soundstage in terms of width and height
- Vs DP750: The DP750 sounds much more organic; it sounds like real instruments again, and the layering of each individual element and sound staging is a lot better
Takeaway: The Accuphase DP450 is a fantastic-sounding and neutral CD player. It would be a worthwhile product for playing standard CDs with great sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Accuphase is a highly respected Japanese amplifier brand, renowned for its ability to deliver lifelike sound reproduction. Their amplifiers are known for their exceptional phase coherence, which creates an engaging, natural listening experience that appeals to musicians and audiophiles alike.
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