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
- The MCD600 plays standard CDs, Super Audio CDs, and also functions as a DAC via digital inputs
- Music can be played from user-generated CD or DVD Data Discs, as well as USB flash drives, supporting numerous file formats including AAC, AIFF, ALAC, DSD (up to DSD128), FLAC, MP3, WAV (up to 24bit/192kHz), and WMA
- Fixed and variable outputs in both RCA and XLR formats allow direct pairing with a power amplifier, and it includes a built-in digital volume control and headphone amplifier
- The design incorporates an ESS Sabre ES9028Pro 8-channel DAC chip running in 'quad-balanced' mode with a custom FPGA handling clocking and data-marshaling
- The MCD600 offers a neutral presentation and broad soundstage, and avoids classic CD faults like edgy upper mids, pinched treble, and synthetic bass
Product Considerations
- The headphone stage has a 47 Ohm output impedance, which is not ideal for low impedance headphones, impacting frequency response and damping factor
- Lacks a USB port for direct connection to a PC or Mac for streaming
- Does not support Blu-ray Audio or multi-channel SACD playback
- The remote control is not backlit, and cannot open/close the disc transport
- The pause button on the remote may not function
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The MCD600 is an upgrade over prior flagships, the MCD550 and MCD1100, with key improvements in clocking and data handling
- When acting as a stand-in via fixed outputs, the MCD600 outperformed the MOON by Simaudio player
- Compared to previous players like the MCD500, the MCD600 has much more open, better focused sound, and there is more depth in the instruments
Takeaway: The MCD600 is a versatile disc player that offers high-quality playback for CDs and SACDs, along with DAC functionality and a headphone amplifier. It is a great choice for enjoying existing disc collections and exploring high-resolution audio.
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
MCD600
reviews
[{"title":"McIntosh MCD600: the last SACD/CD player you’ll ever need?","link":"https://darko.audio/2020/04/mcintosh-mcd600-the-last-sacd-cd-player-youll-ever-need","source":"Darko Audio","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"McIntosh MCD600 SACD/CD Player | REVIEW","link":"https://pt.audio/2020/02/02/mcintosh-mcd600-sacd-cd-player-review/#google_vignette","source":"pt.audio","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"MCD600 CD Player From McIntosh","link":"https://theaudiophileman.com/mcd600-cd-player-review-mcintosh","source":"The Audiophile Man","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"MCINTOSH MCD600 SACD/CD PLAYER REVIEW","link":"https://hometheaterhifi.com/reviews/audio-player/cd-players/mcintosh-mcd600-sacdcd-player-review","source":"Home Theater Hifi","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"Review: McIntosh MCD600","link":"https://www.lbtechreviews.com/test/hi-fi/mcintosh-mcd600","source":"LB Tech Reviews","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"McIntosh MCD600 SACD/CD Player Review","link":"https://audiophilepure.com/2020/02/13/mcintosh-mcd600-sacd-cd-player-review","source":"Audiophilepure","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"McIntosh MCD600 SACD/CD Player | REVIEW","link":"https://pt.audio/2020/02/02/mcintosh-mcd600-sacd-cd-player-review","source":"pt.audio","datePublished":""},{"title":"McIntosh MCD600 CD Player Review!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWdnGK1Cu_k","source":"The Audiophile Man","datePublished":"2020"}]
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
Audio Specifications
- Number of Channels
- 2
- Fixed Output Level
- 2.0Vrms Unbalanced
- 4.0Vrms Balanced
- Variable Output Level
- 0 - 8.0Vrms Unbalanced
- 0 - 16.0Vrms Balanced
- Output Impedance
- 600 ohms Unbalanced and Balanced
- Frequency Response
- 4Hz to 40kHz, +0.5, -2dB (SACD)
- 4Hz to 20kHz, ±0.5dB (CD)
- 4Hz to 40kHz, +0.5, -2dB (Data)
- Signal To Noise Ratio
- Better than 110dB (A-weighted)
- Dynamic Range
- Better than 100dB
- Total Harmonic Distortion
- 0.002% @ 1000Hz (SACD)
- 0.002% @ 1000Hz (CD)
- 0.002% @ 1000Hz (Data)
- Channel Separation
- Better than 98dB (1,000Hz)
- Headphone Output Impedance
- 47 ohms
Digital Audio Specifications
- Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) Type
- Premium 8-channel, 32-bit PCM/DSD, Quad Balanced
- Coaxial Sample Rate
- 16, 24-bit/96kHz
- Optical Sample Rate
- 16, 24-bit/192kHz
- USB Sample Rate
- 16, 24-bit/192kHz
- Digital Coaxial Input
- 0.5V p-p/75 ohms
- Digital Optical Input
- -15dbm to -21dbm
- Digital Output Sample Rate
- Up to 24-bit/192kHz
- Digital Optical Output
- -15dbm to -21dbm
- Digital Coaxial Output
- 0.5V p-p/75 ohms
- Digital Output Jitter
- N/A
- Digital XLR Output
- N/A
- Digital MCT Output
- N/A
Connectivity
- Balanced Fixed Output
- 1
- Unbalanced Fixed Output
- 1
- Balanced Variable Output
- 1
- Unbalanced Variable Output
- 1
- Digital Coaxial Input
- 1
- Digital MCT Input
- 0
- Digital Optical Input
- 1
- Digital USB Input
- 1 (front)
- Digital USB Input Type
- Type A
- Digital Coaxial Output
- 1
- Digital MCT Output
- 0
- Digital Optical Output
- 1
- Digital XLR Output
- 0
- Headphone Output
- 1/4" High Drive
Control
- Power Control Input
- 1
- Power Control Output
- 1
- Rear Panel Data Input
- 1
- Rear Panel IR Sensor Input
- 1
- RS232 Control Input
- 0
General Specifications
- Disc Formats
- SACD, CD, CD-R/RW and DVD-R; popular file formats such as AAC, AIFF, ALAC, DSD (up to DSD128), FLAC, MP3, WAV (up to 24-bit/192kHz) and WMA
- Disc Capacity
- 1
- Laser Type
- Twin Beam
- Laser Beam Wavelength
- 650nm (SACD)
- 790nm (CD)
- Laser Power
- CLASS IIa/CLASS I
- Standby Power Requirement
- <0.5 watt
Weights & Dimensions
- Unit Dimensions (W x H x D)
- 17-1/2" (44.45cm) x 6" (15.24cm) x 19" (48.3cm)Note: When the Disc Tray is opened, the panel clearance required in front of mounting panel is 6-3/4 inches (17.2cm).
- Unit Weight
- 28 lbs (12.7 kg)
- Shipping Weight
- 45 lbs (20.4 kg)
Description
Enjoy hours of listening pleasure with the MCD600 SACD/CD Player. At the heart of the MCD600 is a newly designed digital circuit highlighted by a new premium 8-channel, 32-bit PCM/DSD digital-to-analog converter (DAC). The DAC is used in Quad Balanced mode, with 4 DAC channels allocated to each of the left and right audio channels, resulting in truly exceptional sound reproduction.
Enjoy hours of listening pleasure with the MCD600 SACD/CD Player. At the heart of the MCD600 is a newly designed digital circuit highlighted by a new premium 8-channel, 32-bit PCM/DSD digital-to-analog converter (DAC). The DAC is used in Quad Balanced mode, with 4 DAC channels allocated to each of the left and right audio channels, resulting in truly exceptional sound reproduction. All PCM signals are up-sampled up to 32-bit/384kHz. Besides commercial SACDs and CDs, the MCD600 can also play music from user generated CD or DVD Data Discs as well as USB flash drives. Numerous file formats can be played from these discs and USB flash drives including AAC, AIFF, ALAC, DSD (up to DSD128), FLAC, MP3, WAV (up to 24-bit/192kHz) and WMA. Flash drives can easily be connected via the convenient front panel USB input.
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:
- McIntosh products blend classic, retro aesthetics, reminiscent of their 1970s designs, with modern materials and cutting-edge internal components, offering a unique visual appeal.
- The brand's amplifiers are known for their substantial power output, often exceeding specifications, and their ability to drive a wide range of speakers across varying impedance levels due to their unique Autoformer technology.
- McIntosh offers a high degree of customization and control through features like multi-band equalizers, adjustable input sensitivity, and advanced settings accessible via dedicated apps or web interfaces.
- They distinguish themselves with a focus on long-term reliability and customer satisfaction, with products built to last for decades and supported by a dedicated dealer network.
Select products
Select product comparisons
MHT300
- Positioning: Positioned as a versatile home theater receiver in McIntosh's lineup, suitable for custom installations or standalone display.
- Description: Supports 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video, making it ideal for modern home theaters. Unlike other McIntosh products, it offers 7.2 channel audio with expandability to 7.2.4, providing flexibility for future upgrades. This makes it perfect for users looking to integrate advanced video capabilities and immersive audio in a custom home theater setup.
MHA200
- Positioning: A compact, high-quality headphone amplifier designed for personal audio enthusiasts.
- Description: Uses vacuum tube amplification, delivering a warm and detailed sound that is distinct from solid-state amplifiers like the MC462. Its compact size and multiple impedance settings make it versatile for various headphone types.
MC462
- Positioning: A powerful stereo amplifier, offering robust performance for high-end home audio systems.
- Description: Features a Quad Balanced design with McIntosh Autoformers, providing 450 Watts per channel with low distortion. Compared to the MC1502, it offers a solid-state solution with increased dynamic headroom.
MC1502
- Positioning: A high-power vacuum tube amplifier, ideal for audiophiles seeking classic tube sound.
- Description: Delivers 150 Watts per channel using vacuum tubes, offering a rich, warm sound that contrasts with the solid-state clarity of the MC462. Its Unity Coupled Circuit ensures consistent performance across various speaker impedances.
MC901
- Positioning: A unique dual mono amplifier, combining both vacuum tube and solid-state technologies.
- Description: Integrates a 300 Watt vacuum tube amplifier with a 600 Watt solid-state amplifier, providing the best of both worlds for bi-amping loudspeakers. This hybrid approach is unlike any other McIntosh product.
MC21KW
- Positioning: A flagship monoblock amplifier, representing the pinnacle of McIntosh's power amplification.
- Description: Delivers 2,000 Watts of power, making it suitable for the most demanding audio setups. Its tri-chassis design and advanced technologies like Autoformer and Power Guard set it apart from other amplifiers.
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Avg. Product Price
$5,001-$10,000
Used For Sale
543
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
2
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
77
Founding Year
1949
Our take on the brand
McIntosh is one of the most iconic amplifier brands in the world, recognizable for its signature blue LED displays and distinctive industrial design. With a legacy spanning decades, McIntosh is known to many, even outside the audiophile community, and is sold in both mass-market retailers and specialized hifi stores. Their amplifiers are characterized by a warm, tube-like sound that enriches the midrange and smooths out the overall tonal balance.
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Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
What's your approach to customer support?
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
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McIntosh
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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.
Product Page
Product Page
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.
Expand Details
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.
Product Page
Product Page
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.
Expand Details
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.
Product Page
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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.
Expand Details
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.
Expand Details
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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Product Page
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.
Expand Details
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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