Fisher AD-823 (1985–1986)
A black, Japan-built CD player from Fisher's Studio Standard line, produced in the mid-1980s.
Overview
The Fisher AD-823 is a CD player released in 1985 as part of Fisher's Studio Standard series. It was built in Japan and sold as an early-generation player while the format was first reaching consumers. The finish is black. It uses a Linear Skate Disc Loading System, a mechanical tray design with a reputation for reliability problems as it ages. The design is basic compared to later models, but it was regarded as a well-constructed entry in Fisher's early digital audio lineup.
Specifications
| Disc format | CD |
| Digital converter | Discrete-Logic |
Design
The AD-823 loads discs with a Linear Skate Disc Loading System and has a digital filter in its signal path. The digital-to-analog conversion is built from discrete-logic circuitry.
Context
Introduced in 1985, the Fisher AD-823 was among the first wave of consumer CD players. It is described as a basic model in Fisher's 1980s digital audio offerings, from the transitional era between analog and digital home audio.
Market
Listings show working units selling between $57.77 and $119.99, with additional shipping. Common problems are worn belts and a tray mechanism that hesitates. The usual fix is a new belt and a cleaning. Some units have been serviced with replaced belts and confirmed working. One owner reported getting a working example from a thrift store for $8.
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