Best CD players for 2024

For a couple of decades, my music purchases were almost exclusively in the form of compact discs. Even though streaming songs on my phone is an option now, I'm not ready to part with my carefully curated collection of favorites stored on those CDs. The reason? The discs offer a superior sound quality and a more immersive listening experience that streaming can't quite replicate.

Many of us still appreciate having a high-quality CD player in our entertainment setup, and the good news is that there are plenty of options available. In this guide, I'll break down some crucial aspects of a reliable CD player and offer recommendations tailored to specific use cases, helping you make an informed decision when you decide to upgrade.

Key Components of a CD Player A CD player might seem like a simple device, but let's take a closer look at its key components. This will give you a better idea of what to consider when comparing different models.

Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC):

Your speakers can only play an analog signal, so the digital information on a compact disc needs to be converted at some point. While most CD players come with a good built-in DAC, audiophiles often prefer extracting the pure digital output and using a more sophisticated external DAC, a topic we'll delve into further in the next section.

Transport:

The CD transport is responsible for loading, spinning, and using a laser to read the information on the disc. Some CD players are transport-only, meaning they lack a built-in DAC. An outboard DAC can read digital information with extreme accuracy, resulting in a more spacious sound with better imaging.

Connections:

Players may offer RCA connections that pass the output of the built-in DAC, along with digital coaxial or optical outputs for use with an external DAC. High-end players might also feature balanced XLR outputs for connecting to audiophile gear.

Chassis:

Vibration is the enemy of great sound, so pay attention to how a player's chassis build quality is described. Manufacturers often emphasize the engineering that goes into creating a solid foundation for your music.

Power Supply:

A solid power supply is crucial for any electronic component. Toroidal transformers, known for providing high-current, low-noise power, are valued in the industry. Some high-end variants, like McIntosh's "linear power supply with special R-Core power transformer," also make a difference.

Media Types:

Check if the player is compatible with various media types, including home-recorded CDs with WAV, FLAC, or similar files, as well as SACDs (Super Audio CDs), which may require an SACD-compatible player for their additional channels of high-res information.

Best CD Player Picks If there were a single "best" CD player, that's all you'd find on the market. Instead, I've selected players based on specific use cases and budgets. Let's explore my criteria for each pick, so you can determine if they align with your needs.

Yamaha CD-S303 CD Player - Best Budget Pick:

Costing under $400, the Yamaha CD-S303 stands out among strong contenders. It's a top seller with our customers, and I trust Yamaha to deliver a high-quality product at any price point. This player can handle CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RWs, with the added convenience of a front-panel USB port for playing high-res music files stored on a thumb drive. The 2-year warranty adds an extra layer of peace of mind.