Audio T Verdict
The Musical Fidelity M2sCD is a dedicated Red Book CD player for listeners who want straightforward disc playback through a conventional hi-fi system.
Its slot-loading mechanism feeds a dual-differential 24-bit Delta-Sigma DAC, while fixed RCA outputs make connection to an amplifier simple. Coaxial and optical digital outputs also allow the player to work as a CD transport with an external DAC.
It does not add SACD playback, streaming or digital inputs. Instead, the design concentrates on audio CD replay, low measured noise and jitter, practical operation and visual matching with Musical Fidelity's M2si amplifier.
Musical Fidelity M2sCD CD Player
The Musical Fidelity M2sCD is a full-width, slot-loading CD player built for standard Red Book audio discs.
A 24-bit Delta-Sigma digital-to-analogue converter, used in a dual-differential configuration with eight-times oversampling, converts the disc signal for the fixed stereo RCA output.
Separate coaxial and optical S/PDIF outputs provide a digital connection for an external DAC, digital amplifier or another compatible digital component.
A Dedicated Red Book CD Player
The M2sCD plays standard CD-DA audio discs. It is not an SACD player, network streamer, Bluetooth receiver or USB music player.
The player has digital outputs but no digital inputs. Its internal DAC processes discs loaded into the player; it cannot be used as a standalone DAC for a television, computer or streamer.
Use the Analogue Outputs When
- You want to use the M2sCD's internal DAC
- Your amplifier has a spare stereo line input
- You want a simple connection using one RCA interconnect
- You are building a matching M2si system
Use a Digital Output When
- You want to use the M2sCD as a CD transport
- Your amplifier includes a suitable digital input
- You want an external DAC to perform conversion
- You need a coaxial or optical S/PDIF connection
Slot-Loading CD Mechanism
The front-panel slot draws an audio CD into the player automatically. The disc should be introduced gently with its label side facing upwards; force is not required.
Pressing the eject button returns the disc approximately two-thirds of the way out for removal. If it is not removed after a few seconds, the mechanism draws it back in for protection.
Front-panel controls provide power, display, play and pause, stop, track selection and eject functions without requiring the remote handset.
Red Book CD-DA Playback
The transport is designed around the Philips and Sony Red Book CD-DA standard used by conventional audio CDs carrying the Compact Disc Digital Audio logo.
Home-recorded discs should be created as finalised CD-DA audio discs rather than MP3, WAV or other computer data discs. Musical Fidelity advises using good-quality audio-grade CD-R media, although compatibility with recordable or non-standard discs can vary.
The M2sCD does not decode the high-resolution SACD layer of an SACD and should not be presented as a multi-format disc player.
24-Bit Dual-Differential DAC
The internal converter uses 24-bit Delta-Sigma bitstream technology in a dual-differential arrangement with eight-times oversampling.
Oversampling moves conversion artefacts away from the audible band so that the following analogue filtering can remove them without compromising the upper end of the audio range.
Musical Fidelity specifies total correlated jitter below 135 picoseconds peak to peak, total harmonic distortion below 0.003 per cent and an A-weighted signal-to-noise ratio above 117dB.
Mains and Digital-Stream Filtering
Musical Fidelity identifies two filtering measures within the M2sCD: a mains choke filter and a digital-stream noise filter.
These are intended to reduce unwanted electrical and digital noise before it can affect the conversion and analogue output stages.
The manufacturer describes the power-supply feature specifically as a mains choke filter. It should not be confused with a user-adjustable mains conditioner or described as an external power supply.
Fixed Stereo RCA Output
One pair of line-level RCA sockets carries the signal from the M2sCD's internal DAC to an integrated amplifier, pre-amplifier or receiver.
The output is fixed at a nominal 2.2V RMS for a digital 0dB signal and has a specified output impedance of 50 ohms. Connect it to a normal line-level input such as CD, AUX or Line.
The volume buttons on the supplied system remote control operate a compatible Musical Fidelity amplifier. They do not turn the M2sCD's RCA connection into a variable output.
Coaxial and Optical Digital Outputs
The rear panel provides one RCA coaxial S/PDIF output and one optical TOSLINK output.
Either connection can send the CD's digital signal to an external DAC or a suitable digital input on an amplifier, allowing that component to perform the digital-to-analogue conversion.
Use a purpose-designed coaxial digital cable for the RCA connection or a TOSLINK optical cable for the optical connection. These sockets are outputs only and cannot accept an incoming digital source.
Front-Panel and Remote Operation
The supplied M2 system remote duplicates the main playback controls and adds direct track selection, track search, repeat, shuffle, introduction scan and programmed playback for up to 30 tracks.
It also provides three display settings: full brightness, reduced brightness and display off. Time display modes show the current track time or total elapsed disc time.
Amplifier source selection, mute and volume controls are included for use with compatible Musical Fidelity equipment.
Designed to Match the M2si
The M2sCD shares its full-width case dimensions and fascia styling with the Musical Fidelity M2si integrated amplifier.
The pairing provides a conventional two-box CD and amplifier system, with the player's fixed RCA output connected to one of the amplifier's line-level inputs.
The M2sCD can also be used with another brand of amplifier, provided that a suitable analogue line input or compatible S/PDIF digital input is available.
Installation and Ventilation
Position the player on a stable, level surface away from direct vibration from loudspeakers. Vibration, dirty discs and condensation can all cause mistracking or interrupted playback.
The top and bottom ventilation openings must remain clear. Musical Fidelity does not recommend enclosing the player in a cabinet where airflow is restricted.
If the unit has been moved from a cold environment into a warm room, allow approximately one hour for internal condensation to clear before attempting playback.
Black or Silver Finish
The M2sCD is available with a black or silver aluminium front panel, subject to current stock and availability.
Both finishes use the same internal electronics, controls and connection layout, so the choice is cosmetic.
Key Features
- Dedicated Red Book CD-DA player
- Slot-loading disc mechanism
- 24-bit Delta-Sigma bitstream DAC
- Dual-differential DAC configuration
- Eight-times oversampling
- Total correlated jitter below 135 picoseconds peak to peak
- Mains choke filter
- Digital-stream noise filter
- Fixed stereo RCA line output
- Nominal 2.2V RMS analogue output at digital 0dB
- Coaxial RCA S/PDIF digital output
- Optical TOSLINK digital output
- Front-panel playback controls
- M2 system remote control supplied
- Black or silver finish
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the M2sCD play SACDs?
No. It is a Red Book CD-DA player and does not decode the high-resolution SACD layer.
Can it play MP3 or WAV files from a data disc?
No. Home-recorded discs should be created as CD-DA audio CDs rather than MP3, WAV or other computer data discs.
Will it play CD-R or CD-RW discs?
Recordable-disc compatibility can vary. Musical Fidelity recommends good-quality audio-grade CD-R media recorded and finalised in the CD-DA Audio CD format.
Can I connect it directly to an amplifier?
Yes. Connect the fixed RCA outputs to a normal line-level input on an integrated amplifier or pre-amplifier. Control listening volume at the amplifier.
Can the M2sCD be used as a CD transport?
Yes. Use either the coaxial or optical digital output to connect the player to an external DAC or compatible digital amplifier.
Can I connect a streamer or television to its DAC?
No. The M2sCD has digital outputs but no digital inputs, so its DAC is only used for discs played by the internal mechanism.
Does it have a variable output or headphone socket?
No. The stereo RCA output is fixed, and there is no headphone connection. Volume control and headphone listening must be provided by the connected amplifier or another suitable component.
Why are there volume buttons on the remote?
The supplied M2 system handset can control the volume and source selection of compatible Musical Fidelity amplifiers. It does not alter the M2sCD's fixed RCA output level.
Should the player be enclosed in a cabinet?
No. The top and bottom ventilation openings should remain clear, and the player should be placed on a stable, level surface away from vibration.
What is supplied with the M2sCD?
The manufacturer lists an IEC mains lead, M2 remote control and two AAA batteries as standard accessories.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Independent advice on CD players and complete hi-fi systems
- Help choosing between analogue and digital connection methods
- Amplifier, DAC and cable compatibility guidance
- In-store demonstrations through participating branches
- Part-exchange options on suitable equipment
- Home demonstration support where available
- Ongoing system setup and servicing advice
Contact your local Audio T store
to discuss availability, arrange a demonstration and confirm the best way to connect the M2sCD within your system.