The Cyrus Audio CD8x CD Player builds on the design features established by the award-winning CD8, earning an 'x' suffix by adding further enhancements made available by the technology of the high-end DAC X D/A Converter. Powered by twin toroidal power transformers, an extensive array of selected reservoir capacitors and a bank of power regulators, a new analogue filter stage takes the audio performance of the CD8x to a new level for a single box Cyrus CD player. To complete the design, software upgrades and the new Cyrus silver shielded base have been included to improve playability still further. The CD8x is included in the established Cyrus program for product upgrades and is PSX-R compatible.
The DAC technology and components used in the analogue filter stages are chosen carefully to deliver musical and technical performance to the exacting standards demanded by the Cyrus team. Whilst the balanced topology featured internally in the DAC/analogue stages of the CD8x requires duplication of many costly components, they have found it essential to extract the last ounce of performance from their CD player.
Clock stability is a key element in the signal processing chain in a player of this standard. The digital engineering of the CD8x therefore includes a remote re-clocking circuit with close-tolerance crystal VCO located at the DAC threshold to maximise jitter rejection.
Packed into the stylish, compact chassis of the CD8x are two completely separate toroidal power transformers. One transformer has two entirely separate secondary windings dedicated to feeding the electronics of the disc-reading mechanism and the current hungry motors. The second power transformer, also with two windings, is dedicated to supplying DAC & filter stages. The transformer pair are housed in the forward section of the chassis to minimise interaction with the sensitive analogue output stage. In true Cyrus style the PSX-R power supply may also be connected to further refine the power supply system and take over power supply to the motors.
Cyrus products have always delivered sonic excellence hand-in-hand with state-of-the-art technical performance. The CD8x is no exception and Cyrus are justifiably proud of the measured performance of the CD8x. With ruler-flat linearity performance, vanishingly low background noise and superb jitter rejection the CD8x will technically out-perform most players in it’s class.
To upgrade the CD8x still further, both coaxial and optical digital outputs are provided for connection to the DAC X D/A converter or DAC XP digital preamplifier. • The unique MC-Bus connectivity of the CD8x is in keeping with the total system approach of the Cyrus range of products. This facility enhances ergonomic operation of the unit in a system context. Total automation of the test, alignment and calibration of the CD8x is facilitated via the MC-Bus during its manufacturing process, eliminating potential human error.
The quality lightweight die-cast enclosure of the CD8x has a myriad of advantages both electrically and mechanically. The non-resonant nature of the alloy minimises microphonic effects, while its non-ferrous composition provides an effective shield from external electro-magnetic disturbances. This also eliminates coupling of the power transformer stray magnetic fields to the sensitive audio circuitry.
