Vincent Audio has introduced a high-performance HDCD CD Player that offers the optimal union of precision CD processing with high-end vacuum tubes to bring the music to life. The Vincent CD-S8 plays both High Definition Compatible Digital (HDCD) encoded discs and conventional CDs. It has a premium CD transport, state-of-the-art digital processing, and a fully-isolated vacuum tube analog output stage with the option of professional-grade XLR balanced analog connections.
The heart of the digital section is a Philips VAM1250 CD transport known for its excellent optical reading performance, low playback noise, and long life expectancy. The 24-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC) is Texas Instrument's esteemed PM1792 with a 192 kHz sampling rate. Its advanced segment DAC architecture achieves excellent dynamic performance and improved tolerance to clock jitter.
The analog output stage of the CD-S8 is a full vacuum tube section rather than a hybrid design. In keeping with Vincent's tradition of using top-rated component parts, it uses a Chinese 12AX7 and two Russian 6922 dual triode tubes, as well as premium WIMA and Solen capacitors to provide smooth, rich audio. This circuitry is housed in a physically separated section of the chassis and shielded from both the digital and high-voltage power supply circuits. This no-compromise approach keeps noise out of the signal chain and helps maintain signal purity.
The vacuum tube stage output is via rear-panel XLR and RCA output jacks for connection to a high-end two-channel preamplifier and amplifier. The player has a dedicated headphone stage with a separate volume control. There are also optical and coaxial digital outputs that allow the CD-S8 to also be used as a source for a AV processor- or receiver-based system. Two 12-VDC trigger inputs aid system integration, and the player can be operated using the front-panel controls or the included aluminum remote control.
Vincent Audio CD-S8 Hybrid HDCD CD Player
- Output voltage: 2.5V Continuous
- Frequency range: 20Hz-20kHz
- Dynamic Range: >100 dB
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >90 dB
- Power Consumption: 25 Watts
- Channel separation: >90 dB
- Dimensions: 17″ wide, 5.3″ high, 14.5″ deep
- Weight: 23.8 lbs.
The Vincent CD-S8 HDCD Player is now available in silver or black finish, with a suggested retail price of $3,295.
About Vincent Audio
Vincent Audio manufactures high-end audio components that use vacuum tube and hybrid tube/solid-state technology to produce sound that is powerful, accurate, and texturally satisfying. The brand's exclusive North American distributor is WS Distributing, LLC, of Grand Rapids, Michigan.