The TotalDAC D1-CD emerges as a groundbreaking CD transport, designed to serve as the absolute reference for digital sources. This innovative device is engineered to seamlessly feed a Totaldac DAC or any other DAC, making it a versatile choice for audiophiles seeking unparalleled sound quality.
Advanced Mechanism and Design
At the heart of the d1-CD lies the state-of-the-art Austrian CD-PRO8 mechanism, which is the result of extensive research and development undertaken by Totaldac in creating their acclaimed DACs, reclockers, and streamers. The d1-CD is crafted with a plethora of high-end features, including:
- Precision oscillators
- Customized clock distribution
- Specific SPDIF generator
- A massive copper plate for mechanical grounding
- Anti-vibration feet
- Ground and earth distribution systems
- Electromagnetic and mechanical damping
- External live-power transformer
- Specialized power supply filtering
These elements work in concert to ensure that the d1-CD delivers a pristine audio experience, free from unwanted interference.
Exceptional Jitter Reduction
One of the standout features of the d1-CD is its oscillator, which boasts an impressive RMS jitter of just 40 femtoseconds. This remarkably low figure contributes to the transport’s ability to convey instant dynamics, providing listeners with a more engaging and lifelike sound.
Superior Power Supply Isolation
The d1-CD utilizes an external live-power supply that offers significantly better galvanic isolation compared to conventional mains supplies. This is evident in the noise spectrum when powering a DAC, where spurious lines unrelated to the mains frequency vanish, resulting in cleaner sound output. Even though the power supply only outputs a digital signal, its benefits extend to the CD transport itself, eliminating mechanical vibrations and electromagnetic interference that could affect performance.
Robust Mechanical Construction
The mechanical design of the d1-CD incorporates a solid copper plate as its mechanical ground referenceโsimilar to the construction of Totaldac DACs. This plate is decoupled from the playback mechanics using four conical springs and four silicone rubber dampers, minimizing any potential resonance. Additionally, the copper plate is isolated from the hi-fi rack by three anti-vibration feet featuring integrated ball bearings, while the carbon intermediate plate and cover are damped with ferrite rubber to further enhance sound quality.
Digital Outputs and Listening Experience
The d1-CD provides two digital outputs: coaxial RCA and XLR AES-EBU, allowing it to connect effortlessly with various audio systems. Listening to a record with the d1-CD results in an immediate enhancement in the quantity of information conveyed, as well as improvements in intensity, transparency, micro-nuances, and depth of soundstage.
For instance, during a live recording of Johann Strauss’s The Bat, conducted by Carlos Kleiber, the d1-CD creates a stunning auditory experience. The performers seem to materialize before the listener, offering an almost palpable presence akin to being in the sound engineer’s booth. This level of reproduction is not only impressive but also difficult to articulate, as it transcends the usual listening experience, rivaling that of analog master tapes or live FM broadcasts.
