Consonance CDS 120 black

The black Consonance CDS 120 combines three functions in a single chassis: a slot-loading CD player, a digital-to-analog converter supporting native DSD512 and PCM768, and a streamer compatible with major online music services. This device prioritizes musical fidelity and incorporates uncommon technical solutions for this product category.

A functional design focused on mechanical stability

The CDS 120 immediately stands out with its front-loading slot CD mechanism. This design, borrowed from high-stability automotive systems, eliminates the traditional tray. Simply slide the disc gently into the front slot and the mechanism will automatically take it in. This minimalist approach reduces mechanical vibrations and greatly simplifies internal movements, promoting more stable reading and optimized sound reproduction.

At the center of the front panel sits an analog VU meter, a distinctive hallmark of this model. This visual indicator displays in real time the amplitude of the audio signal present on the CD. More than just an aesthetic element, it instantly shows whether the disc’s recording level is correct, low, or excessive. This is valuable information for finely adjusting your system’s settings and avoiding any saturation or loss of dynamics. The brushed all-aluminum enclosure, available in a black finish, has compact dimensions of 12 × 43 × 36 cm and a weight of 9.5 kg, attesting to its solid construction.

Sophisticated electronic architecture and refined power supply

At the heart of the CDS 120 is a processor capable of handling DSD512 and PCM up to 768 kHz natively. This processing capability goes well beyond usual standards and ensures compatibility with the most demanding audio formats. The femtosecond clock system is a major technical advance, reducing jitter to negligible levels to preserve the temporal integrity of the musical signal.

The integrated dual-toroidal linear power supply is one of the device’s strengths. This configuration uses two separate toroidal transformers and more than 20 ELNA capacitors specifically selected for their audio characteristics. This generous power architecture ensures optimal separation between circuits, minimizes interference, and guarantees ample current reserves for all processing stages. The analog outputs employ a unique Class A filter operating in DC, while discrete-component amplifiers replace conventional operational amplifiers, contributing to greater transparency and musicality.

Comprehensive connectivity for the modern audio ecosystem

The CDS 120’s connectivity philosophy reflects a deep understanding of current needs. The rear panel offers an exhaustive range of digital inputs: USB 2.0 for direct connection to a computer, standard USB input, coaxial, optical, and Bluetooth to accommodate all sources. Digital outputs include USB 2.0 and a coaxial output dedicated to the CD signal, allowing the unit to be used as a high-quality digital transport.

Analog outputs come in balanced XLR delivering 4.8 Vrms and unbalanced RCA providing 2.4 Vrms. These high output levels ensure optimal compatibility with all types of amplifiers, whether tube or solid-state. A Gigabit Ethernet port provides a stable, high-speed network connection, essential for uninterrupted high-resolution streaming.

Streaming capabilities and network integration

The integrated streaming module transforms the CDS 120 into a true digital hub. Compatible with DLNA and Roon Ready certified, it integrates seamlessly into existing network audio ecosystems. Native support for Spotify Connect, Tidal, and Qobuz allows direct access to these services’ catalogs from the unit’s interface. XMOS decoding via the USB interface ensures optimal processing of digital streams, preserving the original quality of high-resolution files.

The device supports a wide range of audio formats. For DSD files, it accepts DSF and DIFF formats. For PCM files, compatibility extends from FLAC to Apple Lossless (ALAC), as well as WAV, AIFF, MP3, and AAC. Supported sampling rates cover an impressive spectrum: from 44.1 kHz to 768 kHz at 16–32-bit for PCM, and from 2.8 MHz to 22.4 MHz for stereo DSD. This versatility ensures playback of virtually any digital music library, regardless of origin or encoding format.

Technical Specifications

Audio Processor and Digital Processing

• Processor with native DSD512 and PCM768 playback
• Femtosecond clock system
• XMOS decoding via USB interface
• Compatibility: DLNA, Roon Ready, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth, Tidal, Qobuz, and other services

Performance and Measurements

• Distortion: < 0.0025%
• Signal-to-noise ratio: > 110 dB (RCA, XLR)

Supported Audio Formats

• DSD formats: DSF, DIFF
• PCM formats: FLAC, Apple Lossless (ALAC), WAV, AIFF, MP3, AAC
• Sampling rates:
  • PCM: 44.1 kHz to 768 kHz, 16–32 bit
  • Stereo DSD: 2.8 MHz to 22.4 MHz

Connectivity

• Local network (LAN): Gigabit
• Digital inputs: USB 2.0, USB, coaxial, optical, Bluetooth
• Digital outputs: USB 2.0, CD coaxial output
• Analog outputs: Balanced XLR (4.8 Vrms), Unbalanced RCA (2.4 Vrms)

Physical Characteristics

• Dimensions (H × W × D): 12 × 43 × 36 cm
• Weight: 9.5 kg
• Integrated dual toroidal linear power supply