Onkyo Icon C-30 Preview

The Basics:

Onkyo has been making cd players since the 1980s-era and was significant for being the world’s first CD player to utilize an optical fiber transmission scheme between the digital-to-analog converter and digital output filters. This landmark CD player was the Integra DX-700, also known as the C-700. This was about 40 years ago, and until recently, many thought the CD player was a relic, replaced with streaming, extensive music files, and more technology.

Despite streaming taking over the digital format, there are still those who like physical media. In 2024, 32.9 million physical CDs were shipped in the U.S. Some attribute this trend being driven by young listeners (Gen Z) collecting physical media, alongside a 90s revival trend. In 2024, CD sales generated $541 million compared to vinyl’s $1.4 billion.

The Rundown:

Despite the increase in sales in the streaming market, Onkyo released this CD player for the listener who appreciates physical media. This is just not a copy of a previous CD player Onkyo made in the past. This is a new design, surprisingly robust and full of great technology.

The Follow-Up:

This is the first chance I have had to hear a new dedicated CD player that was not doing double duty as a DVD player. My initial impressions are that the wait was worth. Onkyo has a gem here. Be on the lookout for our full review to drop on the Secrets website in co theming weeks.