Advance Paris X-CD9 CD Player

Advance Paris X‑CD9 CD Player Overview

The Advance Paris X-CD9 is a high-end CD player designed for audiophiles who value warm, musical playback. One of its standout features is the hybrid analog output stage, which includes two miniature vacuum tubes. This tube design introduces a rich, smooth sound character, ideal for music lovers who prefer a more analog, emotional sound signature.

Internally, the X-CD9 uses a Wolfson WM8762 digital-to-analog converter (DAC), which supports oversampling at both 24-bit/96 kHz and 24-bit/192 kHz, delivering high-precision audio decoding. The player is housed in a solid chassis with anti-vibration engineering and a clean internal layout to protect the sensitive audio circuitry from interference.

Connectivity and Outputs

The X-CD9 offers a full range of audio outputs. On the analog side, it includes both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs, giving flexibility for various HiFi setups. For digital output, it includes both optical (TOSLINK) and coaxial (RCA) connectors, allowing users to connect to external DACs or digital amplifiers if preferred.

It also features a 5–12 V trigger input, making it easy to integrate into automated or multi-component HiFi systems. A remote control is included for convenience, and the front panel—made from glossy black acrylic—displays the glowing tubes for a modern, high-end aesthetic.

Power and Efficiency

The CD player uses a high-quality toroidal transformer to provide clean and stable power to its internal circuits. Its energy usage is efficient, consuming less than 0.5 watts in standby mode and up to 10 watts during operation.

Supported Formats and Functionality

Playback support includes standard audio CDs, MP3 CDs, and CD-Rs, with gapless playback support. While it doesn’t support SACD or digital streaming services, it remains a solid option for those with large CD collections who want uncompromising playback quality.

Performance Highlights

The X-CD9 offers very low distortion (around 0.008%), a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of approximately 103 dB, and excellent channel separation (crosstalk ~101 dB). These specs translate into highly accurate audio reproduction with a clean, expansive soundstage.

Size and Build

Physically, the X-CD9 is a sleek unit, measuring about 431 mm wide, 73 mm tall, and 260 mm deep, and weighing just over 4 kg (net). The build quality is excellent for its price, with metal casing and premium internal components.

Strengths

The biggest strengths of the X-CD9 are its warm, natural tube sound, flexible connectivity, and strong build quality. The inclusion of both XLR and RCA outputs makes it adaptable for a variety of system types, from consumer-grade setups to high-end separates. It’s also visually appealing, with a high-gloss finish and glowing tubes that stand out in a rack.