CD/SACD-проигрыватели и транспорты — Musicnote CD-MU8 MK

The CD-MU8 MK from Musicnote Electronics Co., Ltd. is a top-loading compact disc player that replaced the earlier CD-MU8. It combines a pair of ESS Technology DAC chips with a valve output stage and a built-in volume control, and the maker states that the volume control means it can be connected directly to active speakers or to a power amplifier. The MK plays CD only - SACD is not among its formats. In the company catalogue it sits in a line of disc players that also includes the CD-MU3, CD-MU5T, CD-MU6, CD-MU9, CD-MU12, CD-MU13 Pro and CD-MU15.

Key specs that matter

Two ES9038Q2M chips handle the conversion, one dedicated to each channel - ESS describes the ES9038Q2M as a 32-bit stereo low power audio DAC. Analogue output level is 2.0 V, frequency response is 20 Hz to 20 kHz within 0.5 dB, signal-to-noise ratio is 110 dB with a matching 110 dB dynamic range, and total harmonic distortion is 0.0025 percent. A coaxial S/PDIF socket is also fitted. The chassis measures 430 mm wide, 110 mm high and 330 mm deep and weighs 12 kg.

Engineering and use context

Discs are placed from above into a top-loading transport, and Musicnote gives a reading time of five seconds or less for a CD. After conversion, the signal passes through low-noise OPA2604 operational amplifiers, which the maker chose over the LME49720 and OPA2134 types commonly used elsewhere, and then through an output stage built around 6H3 valves. Capacitors in the audio and supply circuits include Nichicon KG types in their green sleeves with gold lettering, Nichicon KZ types and further parts from the Nichicon MUSE series. The player runs on 220 V AC at 50 Hz and consumes 35 W. Musicnote specifies an operating temperature range of 5 to 35 degrees Celsius and relative humidity of 5 to 90 percent without condensation.

Pairing

In a system built around an integrated amplifier or preamplifier, the CD-MU8 MK connects as a line-level source through its analogue outputs. In a system without a preamplifier, its own volume control takes over level adjustment, with the outputs wired straight to a stereo power amplifier or to powered loudspeakers. For owners who already have an outboard converter, the coaxial S/PDIF output is the connection that carries the disc data to it, bypassing the internal DAC and valve stage.

Alternatives

The Musicnote CD-MU6 is another compact disc player in the maker's range.