I tried Rotel's luxurious high-resolution audio CD player and DAC, and I would buy it instantly if I had the chance (even though it doesn't play my SACDs).
The simple fact of having the heavy CNC-designed top plate in my hands was enough...
In the world of gadgets, it is sometimes exciting to explore the most luxurious and high-end options available on the market. This is the case with the new Rotel Michi Q5 Transport DAC, a CD player that has recently been unveiled with a price tag of $6,999 / £5,500. Those who appreciate the compact disc format will understand the appeal of this device.
Rotel's Chief Technology Officer, Darren Orth, expresses his surprise at the continued relevance of CD players: "I thought we might outlive CDs; but I was wrong." If Rotel decides to manufacture a CD player, they will certainly do so with the quality that characterizes their prestigious Michi series.
The Michi Q5 Transport DAC, despite not having "CD player" in its name, has been designed to offer much more than that. Orth explains that limiting it to just a CD player would be an insult to the quality of the digital-to-analog converter (DAC) it is equipped with, the ESS ES9028PRO, known for its exceptional performance.
The creation of this product aimed to find a precision laser and design a custom chassis, resulting in a player that stands out not only for its sound but also for its aesthetics. The sleek top-loading mechanism reminds us of the traditional way of handling CDs and contrasts sharply with older CD changers. This design helps minimize unwanted vibrations and ensures impeccable CD playback.
Regarding the design, its robust carbon fiber and machined aluminum chassis reflects a superior level of craftsmanship. Orth comments that while there are quieter options like disc loaders, they chose this design for the sound quality it produces, avoiding mechanisms that generate additional noise.
The Michi Q5 not only functions as a CD player, but it can also serve as an advanced digital hub, with multiple inputs allowing for easy connection to various devices. It supports high-resolution files and can act as a high-performance DAC for any audio system.
Despite criticism about the relevance of CDs in the digital age, Rotel assures that their CD player sales are on the rise. This trend suggests that even in a world filled with streaming and digital files, there is still a place for more traditional formats.
Listening to the Michi Q5 provided a unique sonic experience, capturing the essence of artists like Leonard Cohen and Daft Punk. The attention to detail in the sound tuning ensures that what is delivered is a balanced and realistic reproduction, highlighting the quality that can be achieved with a good system.
Although time passes and formats evolve, the passion for what the CD represents remains alive. In a hypothetical future where this DAC is in the home, the ritual of loading a disc and enjoying the sound quality it offers would become a cherished moment of everyday life.
