Hi-Fi CD Player Consonance CDD7

The CDD7 is a high-end player combining CD playback and high-resolution DAC, designed and manufactured by Opera Audio Co., Ltd, a renowned Chinese audio equipment company based in Beijing. This CD player aims to deliver exceptional audio performance and a refined listening experience for discerning music lovers.

It uses a stable loading mechanism to read CDs. The ES9038 DAC chip is on a plug-in card to facilitate future upgrades. The analog output uses a class A DC filter and discrete modules, far superior to op-amps for power, biasing, and compensation. This results in a more detailed and immersive sound, with better stereo imaging and soundstage than IC op-amps. Balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) outputs.

In addition to being a CD player, the CDD7 has 3 digital inputs (coaxial, optical, USB) with USB supporting PCM 768 kHz and DSD512, allowing it to be used as a standalone DAC.

Design and Build Quality

The CDD7 features a sleek and modern design, with a brushed aluminum chassis that exudes elegance and durability. The front panel is minimalist, with a clear LCD screen, a few essential control buttons, and a USB host port for convenient playback from USB drives. The compact dimensions of the player, 10 cm in height, 23 cm in width, and 32 cm in depth, allow it to fit seamlessly into various audio setups.

The player is built to last, with high-quality components and robust construction ensuring optimal performance and unwavering reliability. The CDD7 rests on four composite cone-shaped feet, providing stability and helping to isolate the player from external vibrations that could affect sound quality.

Audio Performance

At the heart of the CDD7’s impressive audio performance is its advanced digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and oversampling technology. The player oversamples all audio material to 192 kHz, ensuring that even standard 16-bit/44.1 kHz CDs are reproduced with exceptional clarity and detail.

The CDD7’s DAC can handle high-resolution audio files, allowing users to enjoy their favorite music in stunning quality. The player supports various audio formats, including FLAC, WAV, and MP3, making it a versatile choice for music lovers with diverse digital libraries.

Digital Outputs and Connectivity

The CDD7 offers two digital outputs: an XLR AES/EBU connection and an RCA coaxial output. These outputs allow users to connect the player to an external DAC or amplifier, expanding the system’s capabilities and customization options.

In addition to digital outputs, the CDD7 features gold-plated unbalanced RCA jacks for its stereo analog outputs, ensuring clean and interference-free signal transmission to the amplifier or preamplifier.

USB Host Port and Network Features

One of the standout features of the CDD7 is its USB host port, located on the front panel. This port allows users to easily connect a USB drive containing their digital music files, providing a convenient way to access their music library and enjoy it without the need for a computer or separate network connection.

The CDD7 also offers network features, allowing users to access and play music files stored on a shared hard drive or NAS (Network Attached Storage) device via a wired Ethernet or Wi-Fi connection. This feature enables seamless integration with a home network and provides access to a vast music library from the comfort of the listening room.

User Experience and Ease of Use

The Consonance CDD7 is designed with user-friendliness in mind. The player’s intuitive interface and clear LCD screen make navigating menus and settings very simple. The included remote control replicates all the functions of the player, allowing for convenient use from the listening position.

When playing files, the CDD7’s screen displays essential information such as track name, number, elapsed time, sampling rate, volume, and standard CD player functions. The player’s shuffle function randomizes files within the same folder, offering a unique listening experience each time.

Setting up the CDD7 to receive a Wi-Fi signal is straightforward, and the player maintains a stable connection even when placed at a considerable distance from the wireless router. This feature ensures that users can enjoy their music without interruption, regardless of the player’s location in the home.

Sound Quality and Listening Experience

The Consonance CDD7 offers a seamless and captivating listening experience, allowing the original intentions of the artist and engineer to shine on every track. The player’s built-in DAC produces sound that rivals other DACs in its price range, offering a balanced and detailed presentation.

The CDD7 provides an open window to the sound of the files being played, without any discernible coloration or artifacts imposed by the player itself. Although the player offers five digital filter settings, many users may find that the default setting provides the most accurate and pleasing sound, without artificial attenuation of the highest frequencies.

Compared to high-end reference DACs, the CDD7 may present a slightly lighter sound with less weight and detail in the lower frequencies. However, this difference is minor and does not detract from the player’s overall impressive performance, especially considering its price and comprehensive feature set.

Conclusion

The Consonance CDD7 is a remarkable hi-fi CD player that offers exceptional sound quality, versatile connectivity options, and a user-friendly experience. Its ability to play high-resolution audio files, access music via USB and network connections, and function as a standalone Internet radio makes it a compelling choice for music lovers seeking a complete and convenient solution for their digital audio needs.

Key Advantages of the Consonance CDD7:

High-quality components and robust construction ensure optimal performance and unwavering reliability
An advanced DAC and upsampling technology provide exceptional audio clarity and detail
Supports various audio formats, including high-resolution files
USB host port and network features offer convenient access to extensive music libraries
Intuitive interface and remote control allow for easy use
Transparent and captivating sound quality, true to the original recording
Sleek and modern design that seamlessly fits into any audio setup