One can either run the CD player through an external preamp, or connect its internal preamp directly to amplification. The DAC and output preamplifier are located on the same module, as shown below.

Volume is adjustable between -60 dBu and +20 dBu, with the smallest 0.5 dB adjustments reserved for -20 to +20 dBu. Holding the volume buttons continuously temporarily increases the size of volume control increments. Balance is also adjustable in 0.5 dB increments, and is phase inversion.

The unit has a total of eleven source input options, including the integral CD transport: three unbalanced two balanced, two S/PDIF, and one each BNC, AES/EBU, and Toslink. Names can be personalized.

The back panel offers five line-level buffered preamp inputs, three unbalanced and two balanced. Five digital inputs accept PCM signals from 32 kHz - 192 kHz at 16-24 bit word length for two-channel playback. All digital inputs are routed through a Quantum asynchronous resampling system and delivered to the onboard DAC at a sample rate 24 bit/192 kHz.

The CDP's Quantum digital signal processing module is, according to the website, " . . . a licensed proprietary technology developed and supplied by digital technology experts Anagram Technologies of Switzerland. The Quantum is a highly evolved software solution running on powerful Motorola SHARC processors."

S/PDIF and Toslink outputs allow return of digital signal input to the source or another component without quantum resampling. There's one set each of balanced and unbalanced outputs; both are termed capable of driving virtually all audio power amplifiers. Internally, the unit has room for possible upgrades and enhancements, and an RS-232 COM port for firmware upgrades.

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