Technics brings the CD receiver to life with a modern twist

CDs are so outdated, yet many people have massive collections of records that they still want to enjoy. At CES 2022, Technics is reviving the CD player as a network CD receiver designed for streaming.

Due in February with a list price of $ 999, the SA-C600 combines a top-loading CD player, versatile digital-to-analog converter (DAC) preamp, FM tuner, digital amplifier and streaming media player. in a compact frame with a silver or black brushed aluminum top plate.

As a streaming device, the C600 decodes MQA audio files and offers direct access to Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, Amazon Music and Internet radio, in addition to supporting additional streaming options and multiroom playback via Chromecast and AirPlay 2.

The preamp section is equipped with a subwoofer output and digital moving magnet phono and optical inputs, the latter of which automatically power on the unit when it detects a source signal. Rated to deliver 2 x 60 watts into 4 ohms, the amplifier is based on Technics’ proprietary JENO motor (eliminating jitter and optimizing noise shaping) and includes separate low noise power supplies for the left channels and right.

Technics also introduces noise-canceling wireless headphones that use Sony’s LDAC encoding to stream high-resolution audio up to 24-bit / 96kHz via Bluetooth. The EAH-A800 phones list for $ 349 and also supports multipoint pairing to connect two bluetooth devices at the same time.

The headphones provide battery life of up to 50 hours of music time or 30 hours of talk time and use eight microphones to ensure high quality calls. Four of the mics are mounted on the sides and work with beamforming and noise cancellation technology to capture three-dimensional voices and reduce background noise.

Technics uses “dual hybrid noise cancellation technology,” which combines an analog filter and feedback microphone with a feed-forward mic and digital filter to minimize noise from inside and outside the headset. The design offers a natural Ambient Mode so listeners can hear what’s going on around them and an Attention Mode which further reduces outside noise so it’s easier to hear announcements or have a conversation.

To minimize destructive wind noise, Technics has moved to a multi-chamber design with a new anticipatory microphone that uses small, deep holes inside to improve air resistance and minimize vibration caused by wind. The primary conversation microphone has also been redesigned with special mesh material to control vibration, while the secondary microphone is fitted with a cover that protects it from direct exposure to wind.

Each ear cup houses a new dynamic 1.6-inch speaker with a “free edge” diaphragm made of a strong and flexible multi-layered material designed to transmit deep bass while minimizing distortion. The pilot sits in an acoustic chamber designed to improve spatiality and enhance bass performance by controlling airflow.

To maximize comfort, each ear cup is fitted with a curved memory foam pad designed to apply even pressure to the ears, while a metal spring in the headband distributes the pressure evenly over the head.