CD77

About the CD77

The AMR CD-77 is a premium compact disc player and processor that uses the Philips TDA1541A multibit DAC chipset, known as the 'King of the Multibit' DACs, forming the core of its unique digital engine. It features a fully tubed analog output stage with high-quality NOS tubes (ECC81 for amplification, 5687 as buffer, and EZ80 as rectifier), arranged in a zero-feedback, direct-coupled dual mono configuration for low distortion, low output impedance, and high gain. The CD-77 includes AMR's proprietary OptiSignal technology, which optimizes every operating parameter of the DAC and offers six selectable digital filters to tailor the sound. It has a top-loading mechanism with a custom Philips transport and servo electronics, and a large magnetic stabilizer puck for disc clamping. The player provides both RCA and balanced XLR analog outputs and a USB input for digital sources, but no digital output, emphasizing the sonic superiority of its analog stage. The chassis is robust, made of brushed aluminum with a titanium or champagne finish, and includes ventilation windows that reveal the glowing tubes inside. The unit is supported by four large footers with foam inserts to reduce vibration. It delivers a sound quality described as lively, detailed, and analog-like, with broad bandwidth and tonal accuracy from low to high frequencies. Technical specifications include a maximum output voltage over 2V, output impedance under 200 ohms, signal-to-noise ratio over 100dB, total harmonic distortion under 0.3%, dynamic range better than 90dB, and channel separation better than 100dB. Dimensions are approximately 45 cm wide, 15 cm high, and 46.5 cm deep, weighing around 18 kg. The CD-77 is designed to recover much of the musicality lost in digital playback compared to vinyl, making it a highly regarded digital source component in high-end audio systems.