SOUND ADVICE - Yamaha RX-V2700 AV Receiver

The CD 8 SE builds on the design features established by the award-winning CD8, by adding further enhancements made available by the technology of the high-end DAC X D/A Converter. Also the Servo Evolution circuitry and their precision slot-loading CD drive help to make this their best integrated CD player yet. Powered by twin toroidal power transformers, an extensive array of selected reservoir capacitors and a bank of power regulators, the new Servo Evolution stage takes the audio performance of the CD 8 SE to a new level for a single box Cyrus CD player. The CD 8 SE is included in the established Cyrus program for product upgrades and is PSX-R compatible. CD6(s) and CD8 owners can also return their players to the Cyrus factory for an upgrade to full CD 8 SE specification.

The CD 8 SE’s outstanding performance can be expanded further by adding a Cyrus PSX-R power supply, which will help reveal subtle details within the recording; this has to be heard to be fully appreciated. When used as an integrated CD player the specially developed DAC circuitry provides outstanding performance. When partnered with the optional DAC X component, the CD 8 SE then operates as a CD transport. Returning the CD 8 SE to Cyrus for upgrade to the dedicated CD transport, CD Xt SE, allows you to move up to one of the finest CD systems in the world. However configured, this player will produce stunning performance and, with the right speakers, an almost holographic 3D image. Cyrus’ CD platform is a valuable example of Cyrus’ upgrade philosophy. The systems are designed to grow with the customer’s enthusiasm for musical advancement and through a series of affordable upgrades, all the way up, to the ultimate X series.

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 CD 8 SE requires duplication of many costly components, they have found it essential to extract the last ounce of performance from their CD player.

Packed into the stylish, compact chassis of the CD 8 SE 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.

The magnesium die-cast enclosure of the CD 8 SE 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.