Audio T Verdict
The Audio Note CD2.1x/II is a dedicated Red Book CD player for listeners who want to get more from a treasured disc collection without moving to a separate transport and DAC.
It combines Audio Note’s modified Philips L1210 mechanism and non-oversampling TDA1543 DAC with a 6111WA valve output stage and a carefully selected collection of upgraded internal components.
Its feature list is deliberately restrained, but that is the point. The CD2.1x/II concentrates its resources on playing conventional audio CDs through a high-quality analogue output rather than adding streaming, digital inputs or universal disc compatibility.
Audio Note CD2.1x/II Valve CD Player
The Audio Note CD2.1x/II is a Level 1 integrated CD player designed specifically for Red Book audio CD playback.
It houses the transport, digital-to-analogue converter and valve analogue output stage in a single full-width component, providing a complete source that can connect directly to a conventional amplifier line input.
The player builds on the architecture of the CD1.1x with upgraded Audio Note components, including tantalum resistors, selected electrolytic capacitors and copper foil coupling capacitors.
Designed for Red Book Audio CDs
The CD2.1x/II is a dedicated audio CD player. It is not designed to play SACD, DVD, Blu-ray or data discs and does not provide network streaming or USB file playback.
Compatible CD-R discs recorded to the Red Book standard may play, but recordable-disc performance can depend on the disc, recording method and condition. Testing representative discs is recommended if this is important to you.
A Complete Digital Source
The CD2.1x/II combines all three stages required for conventional CD playback within one enclosure.
- The transport reads the digital information from the disc
- The internal DAC converts that information into an analogue signal
- The valve output stage prepares the signal for the connected amplifier
This avoids the additional component, digital cable and shelf space required by a separate transport and DAC arrangement.
Modified Philips L1210 CD Mechanism
The CD2.1x/II uses a Philips L1210 front-loading mechanism modified in-house by Audio Note for dedicated Red Book audio CD playback.
The transport uses a three-beam optical pickup and 780nm semiconductor laser to read the information stored on the disc.
Front-panel buttons provide access to the essential playback functions, while the supplied remote control adds further options including direct track selection, search, repeat, random playback and programming.
Philips TDA1543 Multi-Bit DAC
Digital-to-analogue conversion is handled by the Philips TDA1543, a 16-bit multi-bit DAC selected by Audio Note for its deliberately simple digital architecture.
Rather than processing the signal through multiple stages of sample-rate conversion, the CD2.1x/II converts the original information read from a conventional 16-bit, 44.1kHz audio CD.
This approach is central to Audio Note’s digital design philosophy and is intended to reduce unnecessary manipulation of the data before it reaches the analogue output stage.
No Oversampling
The CD2.1x/II does not mathematically increase the sampling rate of the original CD signal before conversion.
Audio Note favours non-oversampling operation because it avoids the additional processing required to generate intermediate samples that were not present on the original disc.
This is a fixed part of the player’s internal design rather than a user-selectable playback mode.
No Conventional Digital Filter
The digital circuit also operates without a conventional digital reconstruction filter.
Audio Note’s aim is to keep the route between the disc mechanism and DAC as direct as possible, concentrating on the timing and musical relationships contained within the original recording.
The CD2.1x/II is therefore designed around Audio Note’s preferred method of digital conversion rather than adjustable filter settings or multiple processing modes.
No Upsampling or High-Resolution Processing
The CD2.1x/II does not claim to turn CD data into a high-resolution format. It works with the original Red Book signal and does not add samples or increase the recorded bit depth.
Its purpose is to reproduce the information already present on the disc through a carefully designed transport, DAC and analogue output stage.
6111WA Valve Analogue Output Stage
After conversion, the analogue signal passes through an output stage based around a 6111WA miniature dual-triode valve.
This valve circuit prepares the signal for connection to an integrated amplifier or preamplifier and separates the CD2.1x/II from players using an entirely solid-state output stage.
Audio Note specifies an approximate reference output of 3.0V RMS, an output impedance below 2kO and channel balance within 0.25dB.
Audio Note Copper Foil Capacitors
Audio Note’s own copper foil capacitors are used within the analogue output stage.
These components are designed and manufactured by Audio Note and form part of the component upgrade that distinguishes the CD2.1x/II from the more affordable CD1.1x.
Coupling capacitors sit directly in the analogue signal path, making their construction and material choice particularly important within Audio Note’s design approach.
Tantalum Resistors and Selected Capacitors
The CD2.1x/II also uses Audio Note tantalum resistors and carefully selected electrolytic capacitors in key areas of the circuit.
Audio Note describes the CD2.1x/II as a component-upgraded version of the CD1.1x. The underlying digital approach is related, but the selection of higher-grade parts is intended to improve its performance within a more revealing system.
Current component brands and exact internal construction may change as Audio Note continues to develop the product, so the latest build specification should be confirmed if a particular component is important.
Connect Directly to Your Amplifier
Stereo RCA analogue outputs allow the CD2.1x/II to connect directly to a suitable line-level input on an integrated amplifier or preamplifier.
The selected input may be labelled CD, AUX, Tuner or Line. It should not be connected to a moving-magnet or moving-coil phono input, as these are designed for the much lower output produced by a turntable cartridge.
Standard Connection
- CD2.1x/II analogue outputs
- Stereo RCA interconnect
- Amplifier CD, AUX or line input
- Amplifier connected to loudspeakers
Do Not Connect To
- Moving-magnet phono input
- Moving-coil phono input
- Speaker-level terminals
- USB-only digital inputs
- Headphones without a suitable amplifier
Coaxial Digital Output
A coaxial S/PDIF digital output allows the CD mechanism to be partnered with a separate compatible DAC.
Using this connection bypasses the CD2.1x/II’s internal TDA1543 converter, valve output stage and copper foil coupling capacitors.
The final result will therefore be determined by the external DAC and its analogue output circuitry. For most owners, the internal DAC and valve stage are central to the reason for choosing the CD2.1x/II.
Front-Panel and Remote Operation
The front panel provides direct access to everyday disc-loading and playback controls.
The supplied remote control adds convenient access to functions including track search, direct numerical track selection, repeat playback, random playback, time display and programmed track sequences.
The front-panel display can be dimmed or switched off when listening.
Full-Width Audio Note Casework
The CD2.1x/II uses Audio Note’s full-width casework, measuring approximately 445mm wide, 96mm high and 270mm deep.
It should be placed on a stable, level equipment support with enough space for ventilation and rear cable connections.
Avoid positioning it in direct sunlight, close to a heat source or in an area exposed to excessive dust, moisture or vibration.
Black or Aluminium Finish
The Audio T product options currently include black and aluminium finishes.
The black version is normally supplied with a black acrylic fascia and gold-coloured controls, while the aluminium version uses an anodised aluminium fascia with matching controls.
The internal specification remains the same for both versions. Current availability and expected supply time should be confirmed before ordering.
System Setup and Running In
Use a suitable stereo analogue interconnect between the CD2.1x/II and the amplifier, keeping signal cables away from mains leads where practical.
Make sure the left and right channels remain correctly connected throughout the system and avoid placing unnecessary adapters in the signal path.
The player’s performance may change during its initial period of use as its internal components bed in.
Valve and Laser Servicing
The internal valve, laser mechanism and power-supply components are not user-serviceable. Do not remove the casework or attempt to replace internal components.
If the player has difficulty reading multiple clean, undamaged discs or develops another fault, contact Audio T for advice and servicing support.
Looking After Your CDs
Scratched, dirty or damaged discs can cause skipping or prevent playback even when the player itself is working correctly.
Handle CDs by their edges, keep the playing surface free from fingerprints and return each disc to its case after use.
When cleaning is necessary, wipe gently from the centre towards the outer edge rather than following the circular path around the disc.
Key Features
- Audio Note Level 1 integrated CD player
- Dedicated Red Book audio CD playback
- Modified Philips L1210 front-loading mechanism
- Three-beam optical pickup
- Philips TDA1543 16-bit multi-bit DAC
- Non-oversampling digital conversion
- No conventional digital reconstruction filter
- 6111WA miniature dual-triode valve output stage
- Audio Note copper foil coupling capacitors
- Audio Note tantalum resistors
- Selected electrolytic capacitors
- Stereo RCA analogue outputs
- Coaxial S/PDIF digital output
- Approximate 3.0V RMS reference output
- Output impedance below 2kO
- Front-panel and remote operation
- Display dimming and switch-off functions
- Full-width Audio Note casework
- Black or aluminium finish options
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the CD2.1x/II require a separate DAC?
No. It contains its own TDA1543 DAC and valve analogue output stage, allowing it to connect directly to an amplifier line input.
Can it be used with an external DAC?
Yes. A coaxial S/PDIF digital output is provided, although using it bypasses the player’s internal DAC, valve output stage and analogue components.
What is the difference between the CD2.1x/II and CD1.1x?
The players share Audio Note’s non-oversampling digital approach, but the CD2.1x/II uses upgraded components including tantalum resistors, selected electrolytic capacitors and Audio Note copper foil coupling capacitors.
Does it play SACDs?
No. It is designed for the conventional Red Book layer of an audio CD and does not decode the high-resolution SACD layer.
Will it play CD-R discs?
Compatible CD-R discs recorded to the Red Book standard may play, but performance can vary according to the disc, recorder, recording method and condition.
Does it support streaming or Bluetooth?
No. The CD2.1x/II is a dedicated CD player without network streaming, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity.
Can it play music from USB?
No. It does not have a USB input or support direct playback of stored music files.
Does it have digital inputs?
No. The digital connection is an output for sending CD data to an external DAC. It cannot accept a signal from a streamer, television or computer.
Which amplifier input should I use?
Connect its analogue outputs to a normal CD, AUX, Tuner or other line-level input. Do not connect the player to a phono input.
Does the player use valves?
Yes. A 6111WA miniature dual-triode valve is used in the analogue output stage.
Is a remote control included?
Yes. The supplied remote provides access to playback, track selection, search, repeat, random play and display functions.
What finish options are available?
The Audio T product options currently include black acrylic and anodised aluminium fascias. Availability should be confirmed before ordering.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Experienced Audio Note product specialists
- Advice on amplifier and system compatibility
- Help comparing Audio Note CD player models
- Guidance on integrated and separate digital sources
- External DAC and digital cable advice
- Suitable analogue interconnect recommendations
- In-store demonstrations through participating branches
- Ongoing servicing and after-sales assistance
Contact your local Audio T store
to discuss availability, arrange a demonstration or compare the Audio Note CD2.1x/II with other CD players.