July Tests Unveil Marshall's First Soundbar, Eversolo Streaming Amp with CD Drive, and High-End Focal Wireless Headphones
The audio market has been given a fresh injection of innovation with the introduction of the Eversolo Play CD Edition streaming amplifier. This all-in-one solution is designed for audiophiles and music enthusiasts who seek an integrated solution for streaming, amplification, and CD playback.
The Eversolo Play CD Edition boasts a Class D amplifier, capable of delivering 60 watts per channel (Wpc) at 8 ohms, and 110 Wpc at 4 ohms, ensuring clear, controlled sound suitable for bookshelf or smaller speakers. The amplifier utilises the AKM AK4493SEQ DAC chip, known for its "Velvet Sound" technology, supporting PCM up to 768 kHz/32-bit and native DSD512 playback, ensuring high-resolution, detailed audio.
The device is equipped with a Hitachi-LG optical CD-ROM assembly mounted on a vibration-dampening chassis to reduce resonance and ensure stable disc rotation. It also features proprietary error-correction algorithms that improve playback compatibility with scratched or aging CDs. Moreover, it supports CD ripping, allowing quick copying of CD tracks directly to the device's storage.
In terms of streaming, the Eversolo Play CD Edition supports numerous platforms such as TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, Amazon Music, Deezer, Radio Paradise, and more. It is also compatible with advanced streaming protocols such as Roon Ready, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, and JPLAY Certified.
The device offers a 5.5-inch full-color touchscreen on the front panel for intuitive navigation through Music Services, Functions, Apps, Connect, Cloud, and Settings. It also supports control via a dedicated mobile app (Eversolo Control) available on iOS, Android, and iPad.
Additional features include an integrated 15-band graphic and 10-band parametric EQ with customisable presets and independent left/right channel adjustment for fine-tuning sound. The device also features built-in room EQ calibration that auto-adjusts the frequency response using a phone microphone to adapt to room acoustics.
The Eversolo Play CD Edition is a compact, elegant, and powerful streaming amplifier that combines excellent digital audio conversion and amplification with a built-in CD player/ripper and advanced streaming features. It is ideal for users looking to consolidate multiple components into a single high-end device with premium control and sound customisation options.
However, it is not designed for large floorstanding speakers requiring high power, and it lacks balanced outputs for professional studio gear. The touchscreen can also attract fingerprints.
Priced at £699 / $799, the Eversolo Play CD Edition could cause a stir in the market due to its affordable price and extensive features. This device is a refined choice for audiophiles seeking a sophisticated all-in-one digital music solution with CD playback capability and comprehensive streaming support.
- The Eversolo Play CD Edition headphone amplifier offers a powerful Class D amplifier, capable of delivering 60 watts per channel at 8 ohms.
- The device features the AKM AK4493SEQ DAC chip, a popular choice for its Velvet Sound technology, supporting high-resolution and detailed audio.
- With a full-color touchscreen on the front panel and a dedicated mobile app, users can easily navigate through music services and settings.
- The Eversolo Play CD Edition streaming amplifier supports numerous platforms for streaming, including TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, Amazon Music, Deezer, Radio Paradise, and more.
- The device is well-suited for bookshelf or smaller speakers, and it also includes a CD ripping feature for quick copying of CD tracks.
- Munich hi-fi enthusiasts might find this all-in-one solution appealing, as it offers customizable presets, independent left/right channel adjustment, and built-in room EQ calibration.
- Despite its advanced features and compact design, the Eversolo Play CD Edition lacks balanced outputs for professional studio gear and might not be suitable for large floorstanding speakers.
- This premium lifestyle gadget, available for £699/$799, offers comprehensive streaming support, CD playback capability, and high-end sound customization options.
- Technology innovations such as the Eversolo Play CD Edition have redefined the audio market, offering a sophisticated all-in-one digital music solution for audiophiles and music enthusiasts.
