Audiolab 8300CDQ CD Player / DAC / Preamplifier

Description

8300CDQ

To the already-high specification of the 8300CD, the new Audiolab 8300CDQ adds high-quality analogue preamp circuitry, coupled to three stereo pairs of line-level RCA inputs to connect analogue sources.

Preamp circuitry is kept as simple as possible using high-quality components to maintain signal purity, with line input signals passing to a precision analogue volume stage. Much effort has gone into the physical layout of the 8300CDQ’s circuitry, protecting the sensitive preamp section from noise interference.

Taking it to the next level, 8300CDQ now includes MQA technology, which enables you to play back MQA audio files and streams, delivering the sound of the original master recording.

The Audiolab MQA decoding solution was developed by John Westlake, one of Britain’s foremost digital audio experts. There are various ways to enable MQA playback on audio devices, and not all are equal sonically. Westlake’s solution maximises the format’s potential, just as the 8300CDQ’s design draws the best sound quality from other audio codecs and, of course, CDs.

The 8300CDQ adds even further flexibility by incorporating a dedicated direct-coupled headphone amp with current-feedback circuitry. Accessed via a front-mounted 6.35mm socket, its gain bandwidth and high slew rate ensure a dynamic, detailed and engaging performance with all manner of headphone types.

8300 Series

In their 8300 Series (comprising 8300A, 8300CD, 8300CDQ, 8300MB and 8300XP models), Audiolab have asked fundamental questions about how people enjoy the music they love and to make sure their hi-fi is as easy to use, as it is easy on the ears.

While their engineers have referenced the blueprint of the previous 8200 series, each of these new components have come under scrutiny to create a hi-fi system well ahead of what is already a leader in its field. With more efficient components, high-definition audio format technology and redefined aesthetics, the 8300 Series has raised the bar yet again.

Specifications

More Information

• 8300CDQ, by Audiolab

Additional information

Brand

Audiolab

Formed in the early 1980s by Philip Swift and Derek Scotland, Audiolab earned worldwide acclaim with their 8000A - an integrated stereo amplifier that became a classic ‘step-up’ from the budget models of the time. During the ensuing years, the 8000A established itself as one of the most successful British amps ever produced, and was joined by a range of electronics including CD players, pre/power amps and an FM tuner.

The brand switched hands in 1997, changing its name to TAG McLaren Audio, and was so known until 2004 when Audiolab became part of IAG and returned to its original name.