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AudioLab 8300CDQ - MQA CD Player | DAC | Preamplifier The AudioLab 8300CDQ is a premium high-end CD player, DAC, and preamplifier designed for audiophiles seeking exceptional sound quality and versatile functionality. Featuring the latest ESS Sabre DAC chips, it supports up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and DSD256 decoding, delivering detailed and transparent audio performance. Key Features High-performance ESS Sabre32 9018 DAC chip with 32-bit resolution Supports PCM up to 384kHz and DSD64/128/256 formats Slot-loading CD mechanism for quiet and reliable playback Dedicated headphone amplifier with high output power Three stereo pairs of line-level RCA inputs for versatile connectivity Minimalist circuit design with separate DAC PCB to reduce interference Transparent sound with excellent dynamics and wide soundstage Can function as a standalone CD player, DAC for computers or streamers, and preamplifier for power amplifiers Modern brushed aluminium finish available in black or silver Specifications Finish Fine Textured Aluminium (Black / Silver) Display POLED 128x64 pixels 2.7" Standby Feature Yes 12V Trigger Yes CD Mechanism Slot-Loading DSD Compatible Yes (DSD64 / DSD128 / DSD256) Disc Compatibility CD/CDR DAC ESS Sabre32 9018 chip Resolution 32 bits Sampling Frequency Optical, Coaxial, AES: 32kHz - 192kHz USB: 32kHz - 384kHz (PCM) / DSD64, DSD128, DSD256 Maximum Sampling Frequency Optical, Coaxial, AES: 192kHz USB: 384kHz (PCM) / 11.2M (DSD256) Output Voltage 4.2Vrms ±0.1 (Balanced) 2.1Vrms ±0.1 (Unbalanced) Output Impedance 10Ω Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) Frequency Response 20Hz - 20kHz (± 0.2dB) Signal to Noise Ratio (S/N) Dynamic Range (A Weighted) >100dB (Balanced) >98dB (Unbalanced) Crosstalk (@1kHz) Standby Power Consumption Power Requirements 240V ~ 50 - 60Hz 230V ~ 50 - 60Hz 115V ~ 50 - 60Hz 100V ~ 50 - 60Hz Dimensions (W x H x D) 444 x 80 x 317 mm Carton Size (W x H x D) 500 x 140 x 455 mm Weight 6.0 kg (Net) 7.5 kg (Gross) Overview The AudioLab 8300CDQ is engineered for transparency and minimal sound coloration, using high-quality components and a simple circuit design. The DAC chips are mounted on a separate PCB to reduce interference, ensuring pristine audio reproduction. Its versatile functionality allows it to serve as a standalone CD player, a high-resolution DAC for computers or network streamers, and a preamplifier to drive power amplifiers. The dedicated headphone amplifier delivers powerful, detailed sound for private listening sessions. Compared to the previous 8200 series, the 8300 series offers a modern brushed aluminium design, improved ESS Sabre DAC chips, a quieter and more reliable slot-loading CD mechanism, an enhanced headphone amplifier, and an additional stereo RCA input pair for greater connectivity options. For audiophiles seeking a well-built, versatile, and high-performance CD player, DAC, and preamplifier, the AudioLab 8300CDQ is an outstanding choice that promises years of enjoyment.