CD playback system with an eye on streaming

Very recently, we were asked to set up a CD-only system for a gentleman wanting to spin his collection conventionally, which is somewhat unusual these days, and the sound was so good we thought we would let you know.

Following a discussion with the customer we chose the 102 CD player from Burmester, partnering this with their 101 integrated amplifier via a pair of Siltech 770i balanced interconnects from their Classic Anniversary series. Loudspeakers were the SCM40 from ATC, connected with Siltech’s matching 770L loudspeaker cables.

We’ve long admired all three brands, but this is the first time we’ve listened to this particular combination – and given the components are ‘entry level’ (comparatively speaking) from both hardware manufacturers, what a winner it turned out to be! The sound was so expansive and fluid, that it took us by surprise.

From Tracy Chapman's 'Baby can I hold you' through John Lee Hooker and Carlos Santana's 'The healer', Dave Brubeck Quartet's 'Take 5', and Rachmaninov's Symphonic dances', to Adele’s live recording of 'Rolling in the deep', the system kept on delivering, rich musical detail – and sounding equally well with all genres.

Vocals really did ‘sing’, sounding fluid and natural, powerful bass flowed deeply and tunefully. Although the sound was clear, with a delightful sense of openness, there was a refreshing lack of harshness – even with some tracks which can sound taxing through lesser equipment. Nothing was highlighted unnaturally, and everything stayed in proportion. The combination of copious detail, ‘big’ sound stage and lack of sonic edge was greatly appreciated.

It’s impossible to single out one item as being responsible for this result, as we felt it was a really well-balanced system. ATC speakers are chosen by many recording and mastering studios for their neutrality, detail and truthfulness, so their pedigree is established without question. The 101 amplifier also contributed significantly, maintaining perfect control over the loudspeakers at all times, while showing no hint of stress or strain.

However, the CD 102 player is clearly exceptional in a market that now has fewer and fewer silver spinners, let alone great ones. We also venture to suggest that its sound is more analogue than CD-like, which is a rare bonus. At its price (though certainly not cheap) it’s exceptional value, and due to the inclusion of digital inputs as well as outputs, it may also be used as an outboard DAC for sources with suitable connections such as a streamer (or even a TV decoder), making the addition of this feature possible for a relatively low cost.

As standard, the 102 up-samples 16bit/44.1khz CDs to 24bit/96khz, but the player has a switchable 24bit/192khz mode which can be conveniently toggled from the remote handset. When experimenting with the two sample rates it’s clear why Burmester have gone to the expense of giving owners the option to switch rather than just using the higher rate (despite larger numbers being better for marketing): whilst the difference between the modes is quite apparent there are qualities in both, with different pieces favouring one over the other for some listeners. It’s always nice to have a choice!

If you’re looking for a new digital source but you’re not quite ready to make the leap from CDs to streaming (and your amplification and loudspeakers are suitably able), the 102 is an absolute gem of a player and a must-listen in a diminishing marketplace for disc-spinners. Adding the option to enhance the performance of a budget streamer to its ability as a disc player makes a compelling case for the 102, and the gentleman we put this system together for agreed as he ordered one on the spot!