CD / SACD players and transports — TEAC PD-301-X

The TEAC PD-301-X is a compact CD player with a built-in FM tuner, part of the brand's Reference 301 series. It combines CD playback, USB memory playback and FM radio in one simple component sized for a desktop system rather than a full-width rack, effectively acting as a three-in-one digital media source.

Key specs that matter

The player uses a Burr-Brown PCM5142 DAC chip from Texas Instruments. The disc drive reads CD-DA and CD-ROM/R/RW, playing MP3 and WMA files from CD-R. A USB flash drive adds WAV, MP3, WMA and AAC playback, and the USB port supports the USB 3.0 specification for faster data transfer. Outputs include analogue RCA as well as coaxial and optical digital connectors, with the digital signal fixed at PCM 44.1kHz/16-bit whatever the source resolution. The FM tuner stores 20 station presets. The chassis measures 215 x 232mm.

Engineering and use context

Aluminium is used for the front, side and top panels, giving the small case unusual rigidity and reducing the effect of unwanted vibration. Discs load through a high-precision slot mechanism designed for professional audio applications, which supports quick loading and automatic playback. Unusually, the FM tuner sends its signal through the digital outputs as well as through the analogue path. A compact card-type remote control comes as standard, which suits a small component on a crowded desk.

Pairing

Because CD, USB and radio all reach the digital outputs, an external DAC can take over conversion for every source. The analogue RCA output connects to any amplifier or receiver without a digital input of its own. Within the Reference 301 series TEAC offers matching integrated amplifiers designed for the same compact size and styling, so a visually and functionally matched desktop system can be assembled with this player at its heart.

Alternatives

For a full-size disc player from the same brand, TEAC's PD-505T is the model to look at.