Стримеры — AVM Ovation MP/CD 8.3

The Ovation MP/CD 8.3 is a media player from AVM's Ovation series that combines a slot-loading CD drive with network streaming through the AVM X-Stream Engine and a DAC with several digital inputs. Its analogue output section uses the Ovation 803 T tube stage, whereas the sister MP 6.3 uses a transistor output circuit.

Key specs that matter

Streaming sources include Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay, TIDAL, Qobuz, HIGHRESAUDIO, web radio, podcasts and music servers, plus USB sticks and hard drives on a USB A port. Digital inputs comprise 2 x S/PDIF coax, 2 x S/PDIF optical, AES/EBU and an asynchronous galvanically isolated USB B. Switched to HIGH RES mode, the computer input handles PCM at rates up to 384 kHz / 24 bit as well as DSD64 and DSD128. Frequency response is 20 Hz to 80 kHz, S/N exceeds 110 dB, and the unit measures 430 x 130 x 370 mm at 11 kg.

Engineering and use context

For discs AVM fits a TEAC Pure-CD drive made for AVM, spring-mounted and working with slot-in loading, and it plays Red Book discs, while 8 cm and shaped discs are not recommended. A FILTER button selects the conversion rate per source, either NAT for native processing or CNV for up- or downsampling to 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, 352 or 384 kHz, and a choice between STEEP and SMOOTH digital filters that trade flat amplitude response against phase shift. Settings are stored per input, and USB input is limited to native rate. A VARIABLE option in the setup menu turns the output into a volume-controlled one, adjustable from the front panel in 0.5 dB or 2 dB steps. The tube line stage adds about 30 seconds to the power-on time, and with the network engine kept ready for app wake-up standby draw rises to about 5.5 VA.

Pairing

Balanced XLR and RCA analogue outputs are decoupled from each other and may be connected simultaneously, with AVM recommending XLR for longer runs, and optical and coaxial digital outputs pass signals to an external converter or recorder, although USB B signals are not looped through to them. Trigger outputs switch connected AVM components, and control is via the dimmable graphic display, the free RC X app or the optional RC 9 remote. Network connection is via LAN or WiFi with a supplied antenna. Silver and black are the two housing finishes, and the manual specifies a three-year warranty in the EC.

Alternatives

In the newer Ovation S line, AVM offers the Ovation MP 8.3 S media player.