CD / SACD players and transports — Vincent CD-S1.2

The CD-S1.2 is a hybrid CD player from Vincent, built with a fully balanced design combining a Burr-Brown PCM1796 24-bit/192kHz DAC with two 6N16 tubes in the output stage. This model represents the third generation of Vincent's original CD-S1 platform first introduced in 2000, updated in 2013 to add digital inputs that let the player double as an external DAC for computers and other digital sources.

Key specs that matter

The D/A converter handles 24-bit/192kHz resolution. Frequency response is 10Hz to 20,000Hz at plus-or-minus 0.5dB. Total harmonic distortion is 0.003%, dynamic range is 100dB, and channel separation is 90dB, with output voltage at 2V. Digital inputs include USB, optical and coaxial, allowing the player to function as a standalone DAC for external digital sources beyond disc playback. Outputs comprise one stereo RCA, one stereo XLR, one coaxial digital output and a 6.3mm headphone jack, plus a 12V trigger for central system control. The tube complement in some configurations includes 2x 6922, 1x 6Z4 and 1x 12AX7, with the specific analog output decoupling stage using two 6N16 tubes to create the player's signature hybrid character. A well-regarded Sanyo or Philips transport mechanism handles clean disc reading, feeding a special analog circuit incorporating a GIC low-pass filter for pure, natural tonal quality. An oversize toroidal core transformer contributes to a quiet power supply background.

Sound and use context

Expect a sound that is both precise and warm, with the tube output stage contributing an unmistakably smooth and liquid character while the Burr-Brown converter delivers detailed, dynamic and well-balanced digital resolution - the fully balanced circuit design specifically aims for clear, coherent reproduction whether playing CDs, HDCDs, or acting as an external DAC.

Pairing

The USB, optical and coaxial digital inputs let this player double as a standalone DAC for a computer or other digital source, and both RCA and XLR outputs give flexibility connecting to either single-ended or balanced downstream equipment.

Alternatives

Vincent's broader CD player range, including the CD-S6, CD-S7 and CD-S8, offers alternatives at different price points and feature sets, worth comparing directly with a dealer to understand exactly which specific generation and connectivity best suits a particular system. Tube replacement should be factored into the long-term ownership costs of any hybrid design like this one, though this remains a modest consideration given only the output decoupling stage relies on tube technology.