Audio T Verdict
The Audiolab 6000CDT concentrates on one job: reading a compact disc accurately and delivering its digital signal to an external DAC or suitably equipped amplifier.
Its slot-loading mechanism, read-ahead buffer, temperature-compensated master clock and dedicated power supply make it considerably more sophisticated than simply repurposing the disc drive from a budget CD player.
It is an ideal partner for the Audiolab 6000A MKII, but its coaxial and optical outputs allow it to work with a wide range of amplifiers and external DACs. Just remember that it is a transport only, with no built-in DAC or analogue outputs.
Audiolab 6000CDT CD Transport
The Audiolab 6000CDT is a dedicated compact-disc transport designed to retrieve the digital information from a CD before sending it to a separate digital-to-analogue converter.
It uses a robust slot-loading mechanism derived from the drive developed for Audiolab’s 8300CD, together with read-ahead buffering and carefully controlled digital clocking.
A coaxial RCA output and optical Toslink output allow connection to an Audiolab amplifier, standalone DAC, network player or another product containing a compatible digital input.
A CD Transport Requires a DAC
The 6000CDT does not contain a digital-to-analogue converter, analogue audio output, headphone socket or volume control.
It must be connected digitally to an amplifier with an internal DAC or to a separate DAC feeding a conventional amplifier.
Dedicated Transport Design
Many conventional CD players combine the disc mechanism, digital processing, DAC and analogue output stage in one cabinet.
The 6000CDT removes the conversion and analogue sections, allowing its internal design to concentrate on disc reading, digital clocking and the quality of the outgoing S/PDIF signal.
This also gives the listener freedom to choose a DAC according to the rest of the system and upgrade the conversion stage independently in the future.
Slot-Loading CD Mechanism
Audiolab uses a slot-loading mechanism rather than a conventional motorised disc tray.
Insert the disc partway into the front slot and the mechanism draws it into the player automatically.
The design provides a clean front-panel appearance while removing the large external tray found on many traditional CD players.
Use Standard 120mm CDs Only
The official manual specifies compatibility with standard 120mm compact discs.
Do not use 80mm mini CDs, adaptor rings, cracked discs, badly warped discs or discs carrying loose labels. These may become trapped inside the slot-loading mechanism.
Read-Ahead Digital Buffer
The 6000CDT reads disc data into a digital buffer before sending it to the output stage.
This allows the transport to analyse information ahead of the point currently being played and can help it recover from minor scratches, surface marks and localised reading errors.
Audiolab states that the system can play some damaged discs that conventional mechanisms are unable to read.
No transport can guarantee successful playback from every badly damaged or incorrectly manufactured disc, so CDs should still be handled and stored carefully.
Temperature-Compensated Master Clock
The master clock is controlled by a temperature-compensated crystal oscillator.
A stable clock helps the transport maintain accurate timing as the digital data leaves the player.
Audiolab uses this approach to reduce jitter at both the coaxial and optical outputs before the signal reaches the partnering DAC.
Differential Coaxial Output Driver
The electrical coaxial output is fed by a differential line driver.
This output stage is designed to maintain the correct electrical behaviour and deliver the digital signal cleanly through a suitable 75-ohm coaxial cable.
The coaxial output has a published impedance of 75 ohms and an output level of 600mVpp, with a permitted tolerance of ±50mVpp.
Optical Digital Output
A Toslink optical output provides an alternative connection to compatible amplifiers and DACs.
Optical transmission provides electrical isolation between the transport and receiving component, which can be useful where connected products are affected by ground-related electrical noise.
Performance will depend on the optical transmitter, receiver and cable, so the best choice between coaxial and optical should be established by listening.
Choosing Coaxial or Optical
Both outputs carry the same 44.1kHz CD signal, but the electrical and optical interfaces operate differently.
A coaxial connection is often preferred where the DAC has a well-designed 75-ohm input and a suitable digital cable can be used.
Optical may be preferable where electrical isolation is useful or where the system layout makes Toslink more convenient.
There is no universal rule that one connection will sound better in every system.
Use the Correct Cable
For the coaxial output, use a properly screened 75-ohm digital interconnect rather than an arbitrary analogue RCA cable.
For the optical output, use a Toslink cable that fits securely without excessive bending or pressure on the connector.
44.1kHz Digital Output
Compact Disc uses a fixed 44.1kHz sampling frequency, and the 6000CDT outputs the signal at this native rate.
The transport does not convert a standard CD into a genuinely higher-resolution recording simply by sending it to a DAC capable of 192kHz, 384kHz or another higher rate.
Any subsequent oversampling, filtering or conversion is handled by the receiving DAC.
Electromagnetically Shielded Mechanism
Audiolab mounts the disc mechanism within its own electromagnetically shielded enclosure.
This helps protect the sensitive reading and digital circuitry from interference generated elsewhere within the player and from nearby equipment.
The mechanism also receives its own dedicated power supply rather than sharing power with an internal DAC or analogue output stage.
Matching the 6000A MKII
The Audiolab 6000A MKII is a natural partner because its internal ESS DAC provides both coaxial and optical digital inputs.
Connecting the transport digitally allows the amplifier to perform the digital-to-analogue conversion before driving the loudspeakers.
The components share closely coordinated styling and can also be linked through their 12V trigger connections for convenient standby control.
Using a Separate DAC
The 6000CDT can be connected directly to a standalone DAC such as the Audiolab D7.
The DAC’s fixed analogue outputs can then feed a conventional integrated amplifier, while a suitable variable-output DAC may also connect directly to a power amplifier or active speakers.
Check that the receiving DAC supports standard 44.1kHz PCM through the chosen coaxial or optical input.
Using a Streamer or Digital Preamplifier
Some network music players, digital preamplifiers and all-in-one systems include coaxial or optical inputs.
Where such an input is provided, the 6000CDT can use the product’s internal DAC and analogue output stage.
This can integrate an existing CD collection into a system otherwise centred around streaming without adding a separate standalone DAC.
Front-Panel Controls
The front panel provides the essential controls needed for everyday operation.
These include:
- Standby
- Disc loading and eject
- Play and pause
- Stop
- Previous track
- Next track
The clear display shows track and playback information without requiring the remote control for basic listening.
System Remote Control
A system remote handset is included and can operate the 6000CDT as well as selected functions on compatible Audiolab components.
Pressing the CD device button places the handset into 6000CDT control mode.
CD functions include:
- Standby
- Play and pause
- Stop
- Disc load and eject
- Previous and next track
- Fast forward and reverse search
- Direct track-number selection
- Repeat playback
- Elapsed and remaining track time
- Programmed track playback
- Display switching
Remote Batteries Are Not Included
The remote handset requires two AAA batteries.
Audiolab’s current manual states that these batteries are not included, so they will need to be obtained separately.
Programmed Playback
The remote control can create a programme containing selected tracks from the loaded disc.
Programme mode must be entered while the disc is stopped.
The selected programme remains in the player’s memory until it is erased by the appropriate stop command or by ejecting the disc.
Repeat Playback
The repeat function can replay the complete disc continuously.
When a programme has been created, repeat can replay the selected programmed tracks instead of the full disc.
This can be useful for background listening, demonstrations and repeated comparison of particular music.
Track Search and Time Display
Individual tracks can be selected directly from the numerical buttons on the remote handset.
Pressing and holding the search controls moves rapidly forwards or backwards through the current track.
The Time button switches the display between elapsed and remaining track time.
Switchable Display
The front display can be switched off when a darker listening environment is preferred.
Operating a control temporarily illuminates the display so the selected command can be confirmed before it dims again.
Turning off the display is a matter of preference and is not required for correct operation.
12V Trigger Output
A 12V trigger output allows the 6000CDT to control the standby state of a compatible amplifier or other system component.
Audiolab recommends using the trigger connections when building a matching 6000 Series system.
A suitable 3.5mm trigger cable is required and is not included.
Automatic Standby
The player provides an automatic standby function for reducing unnecessary power consumption when it is not being used.
The available settings are 20 minutes, one hour or Never.
Standby power consumption is below 0.5 watts.
Disc Compatibility
The manufacturer specifies playback from standard 120mm compact discs.
No support is published for DVD, Blu-ray, SACD high-resolution layers, USB storage, MP3 data discs or other computer-file formats.
A hybrid SACD may be playable only where it contains a conventional CD layer that the mechanism recognises as standard CD audio.
Compatibility with every recordable CD cannot be guaranteed because results depend on the disc, recording software and finalisation process.
No CD Ripping or USB Playback
The 6000CDT is designed for real-time CD playback.
It does not contain a USB port for copying discs to a computer, playing files from a memory device or connecting directly to a USB DAC.
Listeners requiring USB-storage playback should consider the higher-level Audiolab 7000CDT or a suitable network music player.
Handling CDs
Hold discs by their outer edge and centre opening rather than touching the playing surface.
Store each disc in its case when it is not being used and keep it away from direct sunlight, excessive heat and moisture.
Clean a marked disc using a soft cloth, wiping in straight lines from the centre towards the outer edge.
Do not use a circular polishing motion, aggressive chemicals or abrasive materials.
Installation and Ventilation
Place the 6000CDT on a strong, stable and level shelf.
Audiolab recommends giving the transport its own shelf within an equipment rack and keeping its ventilation openings unobstructed.
Do not install it inside a tightly enclosed cabinet or directly above an amplifier that generates substantial heat.
Keep sufficient space in front of the slot so discs can be inserted and removed without obstruction.
Reducing Mechanical Interference
The player should stand on furniture that does not rock or flex under its weight.
Avoid positioning it directly beside a loudspeaker or on the same lightweight surface as a subwoofer.
Mechanical isolation products may be considered where vibration from the floor, furniture or nearby loudspeakers remains a problem.
Power and Mains Connection
The 6000CDT uses a conventional IEC mains inlet and is supplied with a power cable suitable for its region.
Maximum power consumption is 15 watts, with standby consumption below 0.5 watts.
Make all digital and trigger connections before connecting the player to the mains supply.
Check that the voltage shown on the rear panel matches the local supply.
Finish Options
The Audiolab 6000CDT is available in:
Its styling coordinates with the Audiolab 6000A MKII and other components within the 6000 Series.
Key Features
- Dedicated compact-disc transport
- No internal DAC or analogue output stage
- Audiolab slot-loading disc mechanism
- Compatible with standard 120mm CDs
- Read-ahead digital buffer
- Improved reading of some scratched or damaged discs
- Temperature-compensated crystal master oscillator
- Low-jitter digital-output design
- Differential coaxial output line driver
- Electromagnetically shielded transport enclosure
- Dedicated internal power supply
- One coaxial RCA digital output
- One optical Toslink digital output
- 44.1kHz output sampling frequency
- 75-ohm coaxial output impedance
- 600mVpp digital output level with ±50mVpp tolerance
- Front-panel playback controls
- Direct track selection from the remote
- Fast forward and reverse search
- Programmed playback
- Repeat playback
- Elapsed and remaining track-time display
- Switchable front display
- 12V trigger output
- Configurable automatic standby
- System remote handset included
- 445mm wide
- 80mm high
- 307mm deep
- 5.4kg net weight
- Black or Silver finish
- Three-year extended warranty when registered within 90 days
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Audiolab 6000CDT a complete CD player?
No. It is a CD transport and requires an amplifier with a digital input or a separate digital-to-analogue converter.
Does the 6000CDT contain a DAC?
No. Digital-to-analogue conversion must be completed by another component.
Does it have analogue RCA outputs?
No. It provides coaxial and optical digital outputs only.
Can it connect directly to an Audiolab 6000A MKII?
Yes. Connect either digital output to a corresponding coaxial or optical input on the amplifier.
Can it be used with another amplifier brand?
Yes, provided the amplifier includes a compatible coaxial or optical digital input. Otherwise, use a separate DAC between the transport and amplifier.
Which type of CD mechanism does it use?
It uses Audiolab’s dedicated slot-loading mechanism with read-ahead digital buffering.
What does read-ahead buffering do?
It reads data ahead of the current playback position, helping the transport recover from some disc-reading errors caused by surface marks or minor damage.
Will it play every scratched CD?
No. It can improve playback from some damaged discs, but severely scratched, warped or incorrectly manufactured discs may remain unreadable.
Which disc size is supported?
The official manual specifies standard 120mm compact discs.
Can it play 80mm mini CDs?
No. Do not place an 80mm disc or adaptor ring into the slot-loading mechanism.
Does it play SACDs?
It does not play the high-resolution SACD layer. A hybrid SACD may play only through its conventional CD layer.
Does it play DVDs or Blu-ray discs?
No. It is designed for compact-disc audio playback.
Can it play MP3 or FLAC files?
No support is published for computer-file playback, MP3 data discs or USB storage devices.
Can it rip CDs to a computer?
No. It has no USB data connection or CD-ripping facility.
What sampling rate does it output?
The maximum and native CD output sampling frequency is 44.1kHz.
Does it upscale CDs?
No. It sends the CD signal at 44.1kHz. Any oversampling or conversion is performed by the connected DAC.
Which digital outputs are provided?
There is one coaxial RCA output and one optical Toslink output.
Should I use coaxial or optical?
Both are suitable. Coaxial uses an electrical 75-ohm connection, while optical provides electrical isolation. The preferred option can depend on the DAC and system.
Can both digital outputs be connected?
Both sockets may be physically connected, although normal listening requires only one selected input on the receiving DAC or amplifier.
Is a digital cable included?
No digital audio cable is specified among the supplied accessories.
Does it have a headphone socket?
No. Headphones must connect to the partnering amplifier, DAC or headphone amplifier.
Does it include volume control?
No. Listening volume is controlled by the connected amplifier, preamplifier or variable-output DAC.
Can tracks be selected directly?
Yes. The remote handset includes number buttons for direct track selection.
Does it support repeat playback?
Yes. It can repeat the complete disc or a programmed selection of tracks.
Can I create a track programme?
Yes. Programmed playback can be configured while the disc is stopped.
Can the display be switched off?
Yes. Pressing a control temporarily illuminates it again so the selected command can be confirmed.
Does it have a 12V trigger?
Yes. Its trigger output can control the standby state of a compatible amplifier or system component.
Is a trigger cable included?
No. A suitable 3.5mm trigger cable is required separately.
Is a remote control included?
Yes. An Audiolab system remote handset is supplied.
Are remote-control batteries included?
No. The official manual states that two AAA batteries are required but are not included.
Does it have automatic standby?
Yes. The available settings are 20 minutes, one hour or Never.
What are its dimensions?
Audiolab’s current product page lists dimensions of 445mm wide, 80mm high and 307mm deep, including feet, terminals and controls.
How much does it weigh?
The current published net weight is 5.4kg.
Which finishes are available?
The Audiolab 6000CDT is available in Black and Silver.
What warranty is included?
Audiolab offers an extended three-year warranty when the product is registered online within 90 days of purchase. Without registration, the standard warranty is one year or the applicable statutory period, whichever is longer.
Related Audiolab Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Audiolab CD transport demonstrations
- Help comparing the 6000CDT and 7000CDT
- Amplifier and DAC compatibility advice
- Coaxial and optical cable guidance
- Complete CD-based system demonstrations
- 12V trigger and system-control assistance
- Equipment-rack and isolation advice
- Warranty-registration support
- Ongoing after-sales assistance
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss matching the Audiolab 6000CDT with your amplifier or DAC.