Cayin CS-55CD DAC

The Cayin CS-55CD DAC features a 12AU7 tube output stage to deliver a distinctive sonic warmth, while relying on a Texas Instruments Burr Brown PCM5101 digital-to-analog converter for flawless technical precision. Designed as a versatile device, it functions both as a CD player and as an external USB DAC capable of decoding high-resolution digital streams up to 384 kHz, offering a comprehensive solution for audiophiles who cherish their physical collections but are open to modern digital sources.

Hybrid Architecture: The Best of Both Worlds

The CS-55CD DAC stands out for its carefully crafted hybrid architecture. At the heart of the device, the Texas Instruments Burr Brown PCM5101 DAC ensures precise conversion of 16-bit/44.1 kHz PCM digital signals from audio CDs. This chip, widely recognized in the audiophile community, is paired with output transistors and a 12AU7 vacuum tube.

This hybrid design is no accident: the 12AU7 tube brings a subtle and pleasant sonic coloration, enriching the sound with harmonic nuances that solid-state circuits alone cannot reproduce. The result is a perfect balance between the analytical precision of modern technologies and the organic warmth characteristic of vacuum tubes.

To ensure optimal performance, the CS-55CD relies on a large toroidal transformer that provides stable and generous power—an essential element for the optimal operation of the vacuum tube.

Sound Performance and Technical Specifications

The CS-55CD DAC delivers remarkable technical performance for a tube-based device. Its signal-to-noise ratio reaches 90 dB, an impressive figure that ensures music playback free from any perceptible background noise.

Its frequency response ranges from 20 Hz to 20 kHz (±0.5 dB), thus covering the entire audible spectrum with exemplary linearity. The dynamic range is particularly high, reaching 120 dB when playing HDCDs and 90 dB with standard CDs. This dynamic amplitude allows for faithful reproduction of both the most delicate and the most intense passages of a recording.

The presence of high-precision crystal oscillators (20MHz/31kHz) optimizes the performance of the USB section, ensuring perfect synchronization when playing digital files from a computer. These oscillators help significantly reduce digital jitter, a phenomenon that can degrade the sound quality of dematerialized files.

Versatility and Extensive Connectivity

The CS-55CD DAC is not limited to playing traditional audio CDs. It is also compatible with CD-Rs and HDCDs (High Definition Compatible Digital), a format offering better resolution than standard CDs.

Its generous connectivity includes:

• A stereo analog output on RCA jacks
• A coaxial S/PDIF digital output
• An optical Toslink digital output
• A USB-B input for computer connection

This wealth of connections allows the CS-55CD to be integrated into virtually any audio setup. You can use it as a simple CD player connected to your amplifier via the analog outputs, or take advantage of its digital outputs to connect it to an external DAC or an amplifier equipped with built-in converters.

The USB DAC functionality transforms the CS-55CD into a high-quality audio interface for your computer. Compatible with USB audio classes 1.0 and 2.0, it can decode PCM streams up to 32 bits/384 kHz, far surpassing standard CD resolution. This feature is particularly useful for audiophiles who maintain a dematerialized music library on their computer.

Integration into the Cayin Ecosystem

The CS-55CD was specifically developed to harmonize with Cayin’s CS, MA, and LA series integrated amplifiers. This complementarity is evident both aesthetically and functionally.

Available in silver or black finish, the player features dimensions (355 x 87 x 317 mm) and a visual style that perfectly match the other devices in the range. Its elegant and refined front panel blends seamlessly into a Cayin hi-fi system.

Functionally, the CS-55CD comes with a system remote control compatible with the Cayin CS-55A integrated amplifier. This cross-compatibility allows you to control your entire hi-fi system with a single remote, simplifying daily use.

Technical Specifications

CD Player

• Output level: 2.0 V ± 1.5 dB
• Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz ± 0.5 dB
• Distortion and noise: ≤ -60 dB
• Signal-to-noise ratio: ≥ 90 dB
• Dynamic range: ≥ 90 dB
• Digital output characteristics: compliant with IEC958 standard

USB Audio

• Compatible with Audio Class 1.0 and Audio Class 2.0
• Bit depth: 16 - 24 bit
• Sampling rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, and 192 kHz
• Compatible operating systems: Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Mac OS (10.6.3 and later)

General Specifications

• Power supply: 230 VAC, 50 / 60 Hz
• Power consumption: 20 W
• Weight: 6 kg
• Dimensions: 360 × 325 × 90 mm (W × D × H)