Cambridge CXC CD Transport

The design of Cambridge Audio's CXC CD transport has a great finish. The quality that stands out initially is fully justified because the build quality and sound reproduction of this CD transport are simply amazing. The brushed aluminium front panel makes for a fine finish. The metal housing with low resonance sound insulation minimises vibration to optimise the sound reproduction of your CDs. The CXC Cambridge features premium components, in particular the single speed mechanism and a proprietary S3 servo that also features on the brand's flagship CD player: the Azur 851C CD player. With the single speed mechanism, the CXC CD transport cannot play CDs (MP3) or DVDs, but it can play music CDs with a quality that is far superior to the multi-record player as it has a more accurate synchronisation. Considering that the signal remains digital throughout, the signal will not be impaired by the digital to analogue conversion. The S3 Servo is extremely accurate and runs to the CD's speed.

An On/Off button and the button to open/close the loading tray are on the left hand side of the front panel. The infrared sensor is next to the display. Above it is the loading tray and to the right, the CXC Cambridge CD Transport control buttons. The display shows the active source and the available data. You can play a CD in Random mode or you can repeat either the selected track or all tracks (Repeat all tracks). If the CD has a CD-text function, the name of the album and track playing will show on the display.

The Cambridge CXC transport has two digital outputs: one Toslink optical and a S/PDIF coaxial output to connect it with a digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) or with an amplifier fitted with a digital-to-analogue converter. It is often paired with Cambridge CXA60 and CX80 amplifiers because both these integrated amplifiers have a digital-to-analogue converter. The Cambridge CXC has a toroidal transformer. This transformer eliminates noise and distortion because it is entirely shielded to ward off electrical interference, internal and external alike.

The Cambridge Audio CXC CD transport exhibits premium sonic performances. Each component has been meticulously selected to obtain a pure signal. The information extracted from the CD undergoes no alteration. The S3 Servo is simply amazing. Cambridge Audio has marketed amazing Hi-Fi products since 1968. The experience gained over time reflects in the CX line and we have to admit that the design and development of the Cambridge CD transport is outstanding. A must!