A very compact top-loading model, the CD23 is mounted on a pressure cast alloy frame with a very unusual and amusing shallow dome glass cover. The top cover fits perfectly on a corresponding circle on top of the device and is decoupled with a rubber band that surrounds the circumference, also sealing the rotating CD away from air vibration. This innovative approach is not very practical however, as the somewhat heavy glass cover must be carefully placed after loading the CD. A gold-plated magnetic disk holds the CD to the axle of a Philips CDM9 Pro spindle mechanism, housed in a very neat metal subframe, itself suspended and isolated from the main frame. D/A converters: DAC7, Philips bitstream chipsets, running in dual differential configuration. The Marantz HDAM units are also incorporated. The sound of the CD23 is smooth, rich and mellow; typical of more recent Marantz players, but perhaps developed to the best effect compared to lesser models. The good sound-field is also a noted virtue. Another feature is its undemanding sound quality that allows for long easy listening sessions. It is interesting to compare the CD23 with the CD10, which uses the same D/A chips but a CDM4/D36 mechanism. The CD10 is sharp and detailed, with lots of bass but can sometimes seem a bit too bright and ruthless. The CD23 is a very good transport with its coaxial digital output. It brings out the best of all good standalone N/A converter connected to it. The source: Minimum size, high-end CD player of the series of musical links aiming for pure audio playability. CDM-9 Pro single-beam [suuinguamu] mechanism with reliable accuracy and structural precision. With DAC7 bitstream system. To obtain a high signal to noise ratio, a new HDAM improving the HDAM total of Marantz is adopted in the analogue section. The NEW HDAM, with copper-plated case, uses a 2-layer base plate of which the joint makes 4 layers. This acceleration and stability improve the circuitry S/N ratio. The toroidal power trance is adopted in the power supply section. Superior top loading disc installation system. The clamp is independent from the manually operated glass cover that gives the device a unique silhouette. Features: Type: CD player. Channels: 2 channels. D/A conversion system: 1 bit linear/canal. Line Out (RCA) frequency: 20Hz ~ 20kHz ± 0.2dB. Wow and flutter: Crystal accuracy. Output level / line (RCA) output impedance: 2VRMS / 150O. Compliance load impedance line (RCA): Above 10kO. Coaxial digital output: 0.5Vp-p / 75O. Power consumption (power control method): 18W. Max. external size: 250 mm wide, 130 mm high, 280 mm deep. Weight: 5.0 kg. Remote control included.