Onkyo Integra DX-1000EX (circa 1987)
The Onkyo Integra DX-1000EX is a mid-1980s CD player from Onkyo's upscale Integra line, introduced around 1987 at ¥49,800. Documentation is thin. No period reviews have surfaced in the archive's research. The Japanese specification record that does exist shows a carefully engineered machine, aimed at the digital-era complaint of harsh, gritty sound.
Onkyo's approach here was isolation and separation. The DX-1000EX uses a photo coupler for the digital-to-analog transmission, which optically isolates the two sections so digital noise can't bleed into the analog circuitry. An output-in-phase transformer further blocks digital noise from reaching the amplifier. The transport mechanism sits in an outsert compound molded chassis with an isolated floating suspension (Onkyo's I·F·S structure), separated from the main chassis and damped with springs and non-resilient rubber. A double-oversampling digital filter pushes the sampling frequency to 88.2 kHz, which moves switching noise well clear of the audio band. The 16-bit ladder-type D/A converter avoids the analog crystal oscillator that integrated-type converters need, so it suppresses beat generation and improves circuit reliability. The transport uses a 3-beam laser pickup.
Features are what you'd expect from a capable late-80s player: 16-track random memory with remaining-time display, up/down direct selection, fast forward/reverse, repeat, and an 8-digit display showing track, next-track, and elapsed/remaining time. A 10-key remote was included. The measured specs are respectable. Frequency response is 5 Hz to 20 kHz, harmonic distortion is 0.03% (1 kHz), dynamic range and signal-to-noise are both 96 dB, and crosstalk is 90 dB (1 kHz). It weighs 3.7 kg and measures 330 × 82 × 332 mm.
The record doesn't say how it was received. There are no reviews, no owner impressions and no market context, only the Japanese spec-sheet sources. Onkyo's house sound in this era, as described in broader brand coverage, leaned toward dynamic impact and bass authority, with the Integra series generally achieving a balance that held up against more expensive competition.
Known specifications:
- Sampling frequency: 44.1 kHz (88.2 kHz after double oversampling)
- Frequency response: 5 Hz – 20 kHz
- Harmonic distortion: 0.03% (1 kHz)
- Dynamic range / S/N ratio: 96 dB
- Crosstalk: 90 dB (1 kHz)
- Output level: 2 Vrms
- Pickup: 3-beam semiconductor laser
- Dimensions: 330 × 82 × 332 mm; 3.7 kg
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