Frequently asked questions about CD players, old vs new machines, what makes a really good CD player, keeping them running and more.
Capacitors are important and I have thousands in my parts inventory. Let’s dig into why. To answer this we perhaps need to look first at what they do and how they are made. Capacitors store charge, like little reservoirs. They also block the flow of direct current and therefore DC voltages. Some are made of […]
Yes, they do, and it’s one of the more puzzling hi-fi truths and paths to improving your Redbook CD playback. If you need to get in and out quickly, let me assure you that transports sound different, dramatically so in some cases. Even I was surprised by this in the case I describe below, so
Do CD transports sound different from one another? Read More »
System resolution limitations or ‘bottlenecks’ are critically important as they define the maximum performance attainable with a given set of equipment. Think of it this way: You could have the best pair of speakers and source equipment in the world, but if your amplifier can only support a certain level of performance, maybe it has
What are system resolution limitations and why are they important? Read More »
There are so many elements inside a CD player contributing to the sound that no two CD players will ever sound the same, except perhaps two of the same model. When you play a CD, what you hear is the sum of many complex electronic and mechanical elements working together. This of course applies to
Yes, but your CDs won’t sound as good as they can when played on dedicated CD hardware. For the very best CD playback, you’ll need a dedicated Redbook CD player, or even better – a transport and DAC. In most cases, CDs will sound better played on this dedicated CD hardware than when played on
Is it OK to play CDs in my DVD or BluRay player? Read More »
Generally speaking, I suggest you don’t. I know that everyone wants a bargain and equipment in poor physical condition is often bargain-priced. Sadly, there is no escaping the fact that equipment in poor condition tends to be less reliable and less repairable than similar gear in good condition. It also doesn’t hold value as well
What are your thoughts on buying equipment in poor condition? Read More »
A VERY good question, with an answer that depends on what you value, but for most people, it will be an older CD player. Let me instead ask you this: What’s better: a CD player that is beautifully built, reliable over decades and sounds great, or a player that only sounds great, but lacks the
