Presentation of the Atoll DR100 Evolution CD Transport
The DR100 Evolution from the French brand Atoll Electronique is a CD transport dedicated to the pure extraction of the digital signal. Entirely designed and assembled in France according to strict audiophile standards, it employs a mechanism specifically developed to effectively reduce jitter and parasitic vibrations.
Lacking an integrated digital-to-analog converter, the DR100 Evolution must be paired with an external DAC or an amplifier equipped with a digital input to reproduce sound. This design allows for optimized performance by separating the reading and conversion stages.
A Next-Generation Reading Mechanism
At the heart of the DR100 Evolution is a next-generation TEAC CD mechanism, the CD-5020B. Renowned for its reliability and performance, it benefits from a new data addressing system for better reading quality.
This mechanism is housed in a 1.5 mm thick steel chassis and rests on a specific anti-vibration treatment. The 4 mm thick brushed aluminum front panel further enhances the rigidity of the assembly.
A Carefully Designed Power Supply for Great Stability
The power supply is a crucial element to ensure optimal reading. The DR100 Evolution is equipped with a linear power supply delivering perfectly stable and clean current. A dedicated 30 VA transformer powers the digital stages while a second 1.6 VA transformer, dedicated to low consumption, helps reduce overall consumption.
In total, no less than 15,000 µF of filtering capacities are employed for a 1V output signal amplitude. Additional voltage regulators further improve stability.
High-Definition Digital Processing
Another strong point of the DR100 Evolution is the digital signal processing. An optimized board reduces jitter while an LVDS (Low Voltage Differential Signaling) circuit ensures isolation of digital signals and high-resolution data reformatting.
Outputs include a coaxial connection on a high-quality PTFE-insulated connector and an optical Toslink output. A 12V Trigger output is also present to control the startup of other components.
Compatible with a Wide Range of Discs and Files
Although dedicated to audio CD playback, the DR100 Evolution is versatile. It is indeed compatible with CD-R and CD-RW as well as the main compressed audio file formats: MP3, WMA, and AAC. You can thus easily play your disc collection, including your home-burned compilations.
The low-consumption OLED display offers excellent readability. It also allows the display of CD-Text information present on some discs.
Complete Control via the Universal Remote
For optimal user comfort, the DR100 Evolution comes with a universal remote control. This allows not only control of all the player’s functions (play, pause, fast forward/rewind, programming, random play, repeat…) but also control of other Atoll components in your system (amplifier, preamplifier, tuner, DAC).
An Elegant and Timeless Design
With its sleek lines and exemplary finishes, the DR100 Evolution will seamlessly integrate into your setup. Available in two colors (black or natural aluminum), it features a minimalist front panel adorned with the engraved Atoll logo.
Its dimensions of 440 x 95 x 280 mm and its 6 kg weight make it both a compact and substantial device, a testament to its seriousness and quality. The aluminum buttons offer a pleasant touch and optimal responsiveness.
Can the DR100 Evolution be used without an external DAC?
No, as the DR100 Evolution is a CD transport without an integrated converter, it must be connected to an external DAC or an amplifier with a digital input to reproduce sound. Its role is to extract digital data with the highest precision, leaving the DAC to convert it into an analog signal.
What are the main advantages of the DR100 Evolution?
The DR100 Evolution stands out for the quality of its reading mechanism, specifically optimized to reduce jitter and vibrations. Its oversized power supply and high-definition digital processing also contribute to achieving a signal of great purity. Finally, its versatility in terms of compatibility and its refined design make it a complete and desirable product.
With which other Atoll components should the DR100 Evolution be paired?
The DR100 Evolution will perform best when paired with an Atoll DAC like the DAC100 or DAC200. It is also an excellent companion for the brand’s integrated amplifiers with a digital input, such as the IN100, IN200, and IN300. More generally, its transparency makes it an ideal partner for any quality DAC or DAC-amplifier.
Can the DR100 Evolution play my burned CDs and MP3 compilations?
Yes, the DR100 Evolution is compatible with CD-R and CD-RW as well as major compressed audio formats (MP3, WMA, AAC). You can therefore easily play your homemade burned discs and all your digital compilations, in addition to your classic audio CDs.
