Audiolab 8000CDM

A CD transport unit from the Audiolab 8000 Series

Overview

The Audiolab 8000CDM is a CD transport from Audiolab's 8000 Series. It reads the audio data off the disc and sends digital signals to an external DAC, which does the actual playback. It was described as "the perfect partner for the 8000DAC."

Specifications

Digital outputs	optical, coaxial (S/PDIF 75 ohm), and AES/EBU (110 ohm balanced)
Included accessories	BNC to BNC coaxial interconnect, BNC to phono adapter, phono to BNC adapter

Design

Inside is the CD transport mechanism, with the signal processing area directly behind it. That area includes ICs for PLL (Phase-Locked Loop) functionality. A voltage regulator transistor at the back of the unit was observed to run hot, and at least one user added a heatsink to it. The common mechanical complaints are tray and lens movement problems, described as "minor gear problems."

Product Family

The 8000CDM belongs to the 8000 Series, which also includes the 8000P power amplifier, 8000C control amplifier (preamp), 8000M mono power amps, 8000T tuner, and 8000DAC.

Market

Users have reported recapping the 8000CDM and replacing components along the signal path with higher-quality parts, including OSCON, Wima, EPCOS, silver mica, Panasonic ECA, and Rubycon capacitors. They report audible differences, which runs against the notion that digital transports do not influence sound quality.