Audio T Verdict
The Audio Note CDT Three is a highly specialised Level 3 CD transport designed for a serious separate digital system.
Its modified Philips CD Pro2LF mechanism, three-transformer power supply, AN-Vx internal silver cable and silver-wired output transformer show how thoroughly Audio Note has focused on retrieving and transferring the information from a Red Book CD.
It does not contain a DAC or produce an analogue signal, so system matching is essential. Partnered with a suitably capable digital-to-analogue converter, however, it provides a substantial foundation for a high-quality CD source.
Audio Note CDT Three Reference CD Transport
The Audio Note CDT Three is a Level 3 top-loading CD transport designed specifically for Red Book audio CD playback.
Unlike an integrated CD player, it does not contain a digital-to-analogue converter or analogue output stage. Its purpose is to read the data from a compact disc and send a digital signal to a separate DAC.
The transport provides both a 75O RCA S/PDIF output and a 110O balanced XLR AES/EBU output, allowing it to partner a variety of compatible digital converters.
A Separate DAC Is Essential
The CDT Three cannot connect directly to a normal analogue amplifier input. It produces a digital output and must be used with a compatible DAC or an amplifier that has a suitable digital input.
When a standalone DAC is used, its analogue outputs then connect to a normal CD, AUX or line-level input on the amplifier.
What Is a CD Transport?
An integrated CD player combines a disc mechanism, digital-to-analogue converter and analogue output stage within one enclosure.
A CD transport performs only the first part of that process. It reads the disc and sends its digital audio data to a separate DAC for conversion into an analogue signal.
Separating these functions allows the transport and DAC to be selected independently and gives each component its own casework, power supply and internal design.
Complete Signal Path
- Red Book audio CD
- Audio Note CDT Three
- 75O RCA or 110O XLR digital cable
- Compatible digital-to-analogue converter
- Amplifier line-level input
- Loudspeakers
The CDT Three Does Not Include
- An internal DAC
- Stereo analogue outputs
- A headphone amplifier
- Volume control
- Network streaming
- USB file playback
Custom-Modified Philips CD Pro2LF Mechanism
The CDT Three uses a Philips CD Pro2LF mechanism modified by Audio Note for dedicated Red Book CD playback.
The mechanism uses a three-beam optical pickup and 780nm semiconductor laser to read the digital information stored on the disc.
Audio Note has selected and modified the mechanism as part of the complete transport rather than treating it as an isolated off-the-shelf component.
Top-Loading Disc Mechanism
Discs are loaded through the top of the CDT Three rather than into a conventional front-mounted tray.
The disc is placed directly onto the mechanism and secured using the supplied magnetic clamp before the top cover is closed.
This arrangement provides direct access to the mechanism but means that clear space must be left above the unit whenever a disc is loaded or removed.
Allow Space Above the Transport
The CDT Three should not be placed on a tightly spaced shelf that prevents its top-loading mechanism from opening fully.
Check the equipment rack before ordering and allow enough clearance for the lid, your hand, the CD and the magnetic disc clamp.
Power Supply with Three Mains Transformers
The CDT Three uses three separate mains transformers within its internal power supply.
Dividing the power supply in this way allows different sections of the transport to receive dedicated power rather than relying on a single transformer for every function.
This substantial power-supply arrangement contributes to the unit’s 7.5kg weight despite its relatively narrow 300mm-wide enclosure.
AN-Vx Silver Internal Digital Cable
Audio Note AN-Vx silver cable carries the digital signal internally between the relevant sections of the transport.
AN-Vx is one of Audio Note’s established silver conductor cables and its use here forms part of the CDT Three’s Level 3 internal specification.
This internal wiring is fitted during manufacture and is not a user-adjustable or replaceable connection.
Silver-Wired Digital Output Transformer
The digital outputs are transformer coupled using an Audio Note output transformer with silver wiring and a thin laminated core.
The transformer provides electrical coupling between the transport circuitry and the connected digital output while forming part of the intended output impedance and interface.
Both the RCA S/PDIF and XLR AES/EBU connections benefit from Audio Note’s transformer-coupled output design.
Audio Note Tantalum Resistors
Audio Note tantalum resistors are used within the CDT Three’s circuitry.
These proprietary components form part of the manufacturer’s wider approach of selecting and producing parts according to their role within the complete circuit.
Current production also uses Audio Note custom electrolytic capacitors within the transport’s power supply and supporting circuitry.
75O RCA S/PDIF Digital Output
The single-ended RCA connection provides a 75O S/PDIF digital output for compatible DACs.
A purpose-designed 75O digital coaxial cable should be used rather than assuming that any standard analogue RCA interconnect will provide the intended electrical match.
The DAC must have a corresponding RCA coaxial S/PDIF input.
110O XLR AES/EBU Digital Output
A balanced three-pin XLR connection provides a 110O AES/EBU digital output.
This output requires a compatible AES/EBU digital input and a properly specified 110O digital cable.
An XLR socket does not automatically mean that a connection is compatible. The input must support the AES/EBU digital format rather than being an analogue balanced input.
RCA S/PDIF Connection
- Single-ended digital connection
- 75O specified impedance
- Uses a digital coaxial RCA cable
- Requires an RCA S/PDIF DAC input
XLR AES/EBU Connection
- Balanced digital connection
- 110O specified impedance
- Uses an AES/EBU XLR cable
- Requires an AES/EBU DAC input
Choosing the Correct Digital Output
The appropriate connection will depend primarily on the available inputs and design of the selected DAC.
The AES/EBU output should not automatically be assumed to sound better than the RCA output in every system. The quality and implementation of the DAC input, the cable and the complete system all affect the final result.
Where a DAC accepts both formats, an in-store comparison can help establish the preferred connection.
Designed for Red Book Audio CDs
The CDT Three is designed specifically for conventional Red Book audio CDs containing 16-bit, 44.1kHz stereo audio.
It is not an SACD, DVD, Blu-ray or computer data-disc transport and does not provide direct playback of high-resolution music files.
Compatibility with recordable CDs can depend on the media, recording method and disc condition. Testing representative discs is recommended if CD-R playback is important.
Front-Panel and Remote Operation
Front-panel controls provide access to the principal playback functions, including play, pause, stop and track selection.
The supplied remote control adds convenient access to search, direct track selection, repeat, random play, time display and programmed playback.
The display can also be dimmed or switched off during listening.
Compact Width with a Deep Enclosure
The CDT Three is housed in a half-width enclosure measuring approximately 300mm wide and 142mm high.
Its depth of 428mm is greater than its compact front panel may suggest. Additional room is required behind the transport for the mains cable and digital connection.
The intended equipment support should therefore be checked for shelf depth as well as available width and top clearance.
Check All Three Dimensions
Although the CDT Three is only 300mm wide, it is 428mm deep and uses a top-loading mechanism.
It requires a stable shelf with sufficient depth, space for rear cables and clear access above the unit.
Black or Aluminium Finish
The CDT Three is available with a black acrylic or anodised aluminium fascia.
The internal mechanism, power supply and digital output specification remain the same for both finishes.
Current availability and expected supply time should be confirmed before ordering.
Placement and Disc Handling
Position the transport on a stable, level equipment support away from strong vibration, excessive dust, direct sunlight and sources of heat or moisture.
Always place the disc correctly on the spindle and fit the supplied magnetic clamp before closing the lid and starting playback.
Remove the disc and magnetic clamp before moving or transporting the unit.
Looking After Your CDs
Dirty, scratched or damaged discs can cause skipping or prevent the transport from reading the disc correctly.
Handle CDs by their edges, avoid touching the playing surface and return each disc to its case after use.
If cleaning is required, wipe gently from the centre towards the outer edge rather than following a circular path around the disc.
Key Features
- Audio Note Level 3 CD transport
- Dedicated Red Book audio CD playback
- Top-loading design
- Custom-modified Philips CD Pro2LF mechanism
- Three-beam optical pickup
- Power supply with three separate mains transformers
- Audio Note AN-Vx internal silver digital cable
- Silver-wired digital output transformer
- Thin laminated output-transformer core
- Transformer-coupled digital outputs
- Audio Note tantalum resistors
- Audio Note custom electrolytic capacitors
- 75O RCA S/PDIF digital output
- 110O XLR AES/EBU digital output
- Front-panel and remote operation
- Display dimming and switch-off functions
- Compact 300mm-wide enclosure
- Black acrylic or anodised aluminium fascia
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CDT Three a complete CD player?
No. It is a CD transport and does not contain a DAC or analogue output stage. A separate compatible DAC is required.
Can it connect directly to an amplifier?
Only if the amplifier has a compatible RCA S/PDIF or XLR AES/EBU digital input and an internal DAC. It cannot connect to a normal analogue CD or AUX input by itself.
Which digital outputs does it provide?
It provides a 75O RCA S/PDIF output and a 110O XLR AES/EBU output. Both are transformer coupled.
Can I use a normal RCA interconnect?
A purpose-designed 75O digital coaxial cable is recommended for the RCA S/PDIF connection. A standard analogue interconnect may not provide the correct impedance.
Can I connect the XLR output to an analogue XLR input?
No. The XLR connection carries an AES/EBU digital signal and must connect to a compatible digital input, not an analogue balanced input.
Does the CDT Three use valves?
Audio Note’s current specification describes a three-transformer power supply but does not list valves within the CDT Three.
Does it play SACDs?
No. It is designed for conventional Red Book audio CDs and does not read the high-resolution SACD layer.
Will it play CD-R discs?
Compatible recordable discs may play, but performance can vary according to the disc, recorder, recording method and physical condition.
Does it stream music?
No. The CDT Three is a dedicated physical-disc transport without network streaming, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
Can it play music from USB?
No. It does not provide a USB input or support direct playback from storage devices.
How much space does it require?
It measures approximately 300mm wide, 142mm high and 428mm deep. Additional room is needed behind it for cables and above it for the top-loading mechanism.
What finishes are available?
The CDT Three is available with a black acrylic or anodised aluminium fascia, subject to current availability.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Experienced Audio Note digital-system specialists
- Help selecting a compatible DAC
- RCA S/PDIF and AES/EBU connection advice
- Suitable digital cable recommendations
- Equipment rack and top-clearance guidance
- In-store demonstrations through participating branches
- Complete system installation and setup support
- Ongoing laser, mechanism and servicing assistance
Contact your local Audio T store
to discuss DAC compatibility, connection options, availability or a demonstration of the Audio Note CDT Three.