Audio T Verdict
The Advance Paris X-CD9 combines the convenience of a dedicated CD player with a distinctive valve-based analogue output stage.
Both its RCA and balanced XLR outputs pass through two miniature audio valves, while optical and coaxial digital outputs allow it to operate as a CD transport with an external DAC or suitably equipped amplifier.
A toroidal power supply, Wolfson digital-to-analogue converter, front USB playback and slimline Classic Line styling make the X-CD9 a particularly attractive choice for anyone who wants to give an established CD collection a fresh lease of life.
Advance Paris X-CD9 Valve Output CD Player
The Advance Paris X-CD9 is a dedicated CD player with valve-driven analogue outputs and separate optical and coaxial digital connections.
It can connect directly to an integrated amplifier or preamplifier through conventional RCA or balanced XLR, or supply a digital signal to an external DAC.
A front USB-A input also supports compatible MP3 and WMA music files stored on FAT16 or FAT32 media.
Two Miniature Audio Valves
The X-CD9’s defining feature is its pair of miniature audio valves, visible through the front panel.
The analogue signal passes through these valves before reaching the RCA and balanced XLR outputs.
Advance Paris developed this output stage to provide a musical and less aggressive presentation while retaining the precision and convenience of Compact Disc.
The manufacturer does not publish the specific valve model used by the X-CD9, so it should not be described as using a particular Raytheon, ECC or 5703-series valve without further confirmation.
Valve Outputs on RCA and XLR
Both analogue connection options use the valve output stage:
- Stereo unbalanced RCA
- Stereo balanced XLR
This means the X-CD9’s valve circuitry remains active whether it is connected to a conventional RCA input or a compatible balanced amplifier.
The optical and coaxial digital outputs bypass the player’s internal analogue conversion and valve output stage.
Which Output Should You Use?
Use RCA or balanced XLR to hear the X-CD9’s internal Wolfson DAC and valve output stage.
Use optical or coaxial when you want an external DAC or amplifier to perform the digital-to-analogue conversion.
Wolfson WM8762 DAC
The current Advance Paris and Audio T specifications identify the digital-to-analogue converter as a Wolfson WM8762.
The DAC converts the digital signal read from the disc before passing the resulting analogue audio through the miniature valve output stage.
Wolfson converters have been used in a wide range of well-regarded Hi-Fi source components and are known for combining detailed conversion with a natural presentation.
Published DAC Discrepancy
An older Advance Paris operating manual identifies a WM8761 converter, while the current manufacturer and Audio T product listings specify the WM8762.
The current WM8762 specification has been used for this product page.
Where the exact converter revision is essential, it should be confirmed against the individual unit or directly with Advance Paris.
24-Bit Oversampling
Advance Paris lists oversampling at 24-bit/96kHz and 24-bit/192kHz.
Oversampling processes the original Compact Disc data internally before digital-to-analogue conversion.
This does not add musical information that was absent from the original 16-bit/44.1kHz CD recording, but it allows the player’s conversion and filtering stages to operate at a higher internal rate.
Toroidal Power Transformer
A 25VA toroidal transformer supplies the X-CD9’s transport, laser-control, digital and analogue circuits.
Advance Paris has chosen a linear toroidal supply rather than the switch-mode power supply used by the more affordable X-CD7.
Toroidal transformers are widely used in Hi-Fi components because they can provide stable power while producing a relatively low external magnetic field.
Dedicated Power for the Audio Circuits
The power supply supports the principal operating sections of the player, including:
- CD transport mechanism
- Laser and servo control
- Digital processing
- Digital-to-analogue conversion
- Valve analogue-output circuitry
The player’s maximum published consumption is 10W, with standby consumption below 0.5W.
Front-Loading CD Mechanism
The X-CD9 uses a conventional front-loading disc tray rather than a slot-loading mechanism.
Place the disc centrally in the drawer with its printed label facing upwards.
Pressing play while the drawer is open closes the tray automatically and begins playback once the disc has been recognised.
Front-Panel Transport Controls
The front panel provides direct access to the principal playback functions:
- Standby
- Disc eject
- Play and pause
- Stop
- Previous track
- Next track
- Fast reverse
- Fast forward
This allows normal CD operation without requiring the supplied remote control.
Supplied Infrared Remote Control
The infrared remote provides access to the main transport functions from the listening position.
Documented functions include:
- On and standby
- Play and pause
- Stop
- Disc eject
- Previous and next track
- Forward and reverse search
- Repeat track
- A-B repeat
- Numerical track selection
The handset may be shared with other Advance Paris products, so some buttons may not perform a function on the X-CD9.
Repeat and A-B Playback
The repeat-track function allows a selected song to play continuously.
A-B repeat allows a specific section of a track to be repeated between user-selected start and end points.
These functions can be useful when comparing system changes or concentrating on a particular passage within a recording.
Front USB-A Playback
The front USB-A input supports compatible music files stored on a USB memory device or hard drive.
The official operating instructions list:
- MP3 playback
- WMA playback
- FAT16 formatting
- FAT32 formatting
The manufacturer’s capacity notation is unclear, so no guaranteed maximum USB-drive size should be advertised without further confirmation.
No USB-B Computer Audio
The USB connection is intended for compatible storage media rather than direct connection to a Windows computer or Mac.
The X-CD9 does not provide a USB-B computer-audio input.
A computer should instead be connected to a suitable external DAC, streamer or amplifier with USB audio.
Balanced XLR Analogue Outputs
A stereo pair of balanced XLR outputs allows the X-CD9 to connect to a compatible balanced integrated amplifier or preamplifier.
Balanced signal transmission can provide improved rejection of external electrical interference, particularly when longer interconnects are required.
The official manual publishes a balanced output level of approximately 3.9V.
Unbalanced RCA Analogue Outputs
A conventional stereo RCA output allows the X-CD9 to connect to the majority of integrated amplifiers, preamplifiers and receivers.
Suitable inputs may be labelled:
The official manual publishes an unbalanced output level of approximately 2V.
Do Not Use a Phono Input
The X-CD9 produces a standard line-level analogue signal.
A PHONO input is designed for the much lower output from a turntable cartridge and is not suitable for the CD player.
Use One Analogue Connection Type
Advance Paris recommends choosing either the balanced XLR output or the unbalanced RCA output for the main amplifier connection.
There is normally no benefit in connecting both analogue output types to the same amplifier at once.
Reduce the amplifier volume or switch it off before changing between connection types.
Fixed-Level Analogue Outputs
The X-CD9 is designed to connect to an integrated amplifier or preamplifier that provides volume control.
A variable analogue-output mode is not specified.
It should not normally be connected directly to a power amplifier or active loudspeaker system unless the downstream equipment provides safe volume adjustment.
Coaxial Digital Output
A 75-ohm coaxial S/PDIF output allows the X-CD9 to feed a compatible external DAC, digital amplifier or recorder.
When this connection is used, digital-to-analogue conversion and subsequent analogue processing take place in the connected component.
Use a purpose-designed 75-ohm digital coaxial cable rather than one half of a conventional stereo analogue interconnect.
Optical Digital Output
An optical Toslink output provides an alternative digital connection to an external DAC or suitably equipped amplifier.
Optical transmission provides electrical isolation between the CD player and the downstream component.
Remove any protective caps from the optical cable and socket before making the connection.
Use the X-CD9 as a CD Transport
The optical and coaxial outputs allow the X-CD9 to operate as a dedicated CD transport.
In this arrangement, the X-CD9 reads the disc while the connected DAC or amplifier performs conversion and analogue output processing.
This offers a useful upgrade route if a different DAC is added to the system in the future.
Compare the Internal and External DACs
Connect an analogue output to hear the Wolfson DAC and valves, then connect a digital output to compare a separate DAC.
An Audio T demonstration can help establish which arrangement works best within the complete system.
5–12V Trigger Input
A rear-panel trigger input allows compatible equipment to control the X-CD9’s power state.
The trigger accepts a published control voltage between 5V and 12V.
This can allow a compatible Advance Paris amplifier or control component to switch the CD player on as part of a complete system.
The trigger socket carries control voltage rather than audio.
Published Audio Performance
The current Advance Paris specification publishes:
- Distortion: 0.008%
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 103dB
- Crosstalk: 101dB
An official technical sheet gives separate distortion figures of below 0.009% through RCA and below 0.005% through balanced XLR.
Differences between official documents may reflect different measurement conditions or product revisions.
No Digital Inputs
The optical and coaxial sockets are outputs rather than inputs.
The X-CD9 cannot act as a DAC for a television, streamer, games console or other external digital source.
Those products must connect directly to the amplifier or a separate DAC.
No Network Streaming
The X-CD9 does not include Ethernet, Wi-Fi or a network-streaming platform.
It does not provide direct access to Spotify, Qobuz, TIDAL, internet radio or music stored on a NAS drive.
A separate network player can be connected to the amplifier alongside the X-CD9.
No Bluetooth
Bluetooth reception is not built in.
The X-CD9 does not provide the proprietary module socket used by selected Advance Paris amplifiers and network players.
Bluetooth playback must be provided by another source component or by the connected amplifier.
No Headphone Output
The X-CD9 does not contain a dedicated headphone amplifier or front headphone socket.
Headphones should be connected to the partnering amplifier or a separate headphone amplifier.
CD and Disc Compatibility
The X-CD9 is intended primarily for conventional audio Compact Disc playback.
SACD, DVD and Blu-ray compatibility are not specified.
Specific CD-R and CD-RW support is not clearly confirmed in the current manufacturer specification, so compatibility with every recordable disc cannot be guaranteed.
X-CD7 or X-CD9?
The X-CD7 and X-CD9 share a similar slimline cabinet and both provide RCA, balanced XLR, optical and coaxial outputs.
The X-CD9 adds:
- Miniature valves on the RCA and XLR analogue outputs
- A toroidal linear power supply
- A trigger input
- A different current-listed Wolfson DAC
The X-CD7 remains the more affordable solid-state option, while the X-CD9 is intended for listeners who specifically want the valve analogue-output stage.
X-CD9 or X-Stream 9?
The X-CD9 focuses on CD and compatible USB-file playback.
The X-Stream 9 is a more comprehensive digital source that adds network streaming, internet radio, DAB/FM, digital inputs and USB computer audio.
The X-CD9 is the simpler option where dedicated CD performance and its valve analogue output are the priorities.
Slimline Classic Line Design
The X-CD9 uses a black acrylic-glass front panel that complements Advance Paris Classic Line amplifiers and preamplifiers.
The two visible valves provide a warm glow during operation, while the slim 73mm cabinet height allows it to occupy relatively little vertical rack space.
Installation and Equipment Support
The X-CD9 measures 431mm wide, 73mm high and 260mm deep, with a published net weight of 4.1kg.
Place it on a stable, level equipment shelf so that the disc tray can open without obstruction.
Keep the player away from moisture, direct heat and equipment that may block its ventilation openings.
Allow Space for Connections
The published depth does not include the additional clearance required by the mains cable, trigger lead, analogue interconnects or digital cables.
Allow enough room behind the player to avoid sharply bending cables or forcing connectors against a wall or cabinet panel.
Disc Care
Hold CDs by their outer edge and centre hole to avoid fingerprints on the playing surface.
Store discs in their cases and keep them away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture.
Clean a marked disc with a soft cloth, wiping from the centre towards the outer edge rather than in a circular motion.
Key Features
- Dedicated valve-output CD player
- Two visible miniature audio valves
- Valve processing on RCA and balanced XLR analogue outputs
- Current-listed Wolfson WM8762 DAC
- 24-bit/96kHz and 24-bit/192kHz oversampling
- 25VA toroidal transformer
- Linear power supply
- Front-loading CD tray
- Front-panel transport controls
- Play, pause and stop
- Previous and next track
- Fast forward and reverse
- Repeat-track playback
- A-B repeat
- Numerical track selection
- Front USB-A input
- MP3 and WMA USB-file playback
- FAT16 and FAT32 USB compatibility
- Stereo unbalanced RCA valve output
- Stereo balanced XLR valve output
- Approximately 2V RCA output
- Approximately 3.9V balanced XLR output
- 75-ohm coaxial digital output
- Optical Toslink digital output
- Can be used as a CD transport
- 5–12V trigger input
- Infrared remote control included
- Maximum consumption of 10W
- Standby consumption below 0.5W
- Black acrylic-glass front panel
- Slim 73mm cabinet height
- 4.1kg net weight
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Advance Paris X-CD9?
It is a dedicated CD player with a Wolfson DAC, toroidal power supply and two miniature valves on its RCA and balanced XLR analogue outputs.
Does the music really pass through valves?
Yes, when either analogue output is used. Both the RCA and balanced XLR outputs are identified as valve outputs by Advance Paris.
Do the digital outputs use the valves?
No. The optical and coaxial outputs send a digital signal to the connected DAC or amplifier.
Which valves does it use?
Advance Paris confirms two miniature audio valves but does not publish their specific model in the current X-CD9 documentation.
What DAC does it use?
The current Advance Paris and Audio T specifications identify a Wolfson WM8762.
Why does an older manual mention the WM8761?
The older manual contains a different DAC reference. This page uses the WM8762 listed in the current manufacturer and Audio T specifications.
Does it have balanced outputs?
Yes. A stereo pair of valve-driven balanced XLR outputs is provided.
Does it also have RCA outputs?
Yes. It includes a conventional stereo RCA valve output.
Should I use RCA or XLR?
This depends on the connected amplifier and installation. XLR can provide improved interference rejection, particularly with longer cable runs.
Are the analogue outputs variable?
No variable-output mode is specified. Volume should be controlled by the connected amplifier or preamplifier.
Can it connect directly to a power amplifier?
Not normally. A suitable preamplifier or another component with safe volume control is required.
Can it be used as a CD transport?
Yes. Connect its optical or coaxial digital output to a compatible external DAC or amplifier.
Does it have digital inputs?
No. Its optical and coaxial sockets are outputs only.
Does it have a USB input?
Yes. The front USB-A input supports compatible MP3 and WMA files on FAT16 or FAT32 media.
Can I connect a computer through USB?
No. It does not provide USB-B computer audio.
Does it play FLAC files from USB?
FLAC support is not specified in the official X-CD9 operating instructions.
What is the maximum USB-drive size?
The manual’s capacity notation is unclear, so no guaranteed maximum should be stated without further manufacturer confirmation.
Does it play SACDs?
SACD playback is not specified.
Does it support CD-R or CD-RW?
Specific support is not clearly confirmed in the current product specification.
Does it have Bluetooth?
No. Bluetooth reception is not built in.
Does it have Wi-Fi or network streaming?
No. It is a dedicated CD and USB-file player rather than a network streamer.
Does it include a headphone output?
No. Headphones should be connected to the partnering amplifier or a separate headphone amplifier.
Does it have a trigger input?
Yes. It accepts a compatible trigger signal between 5V and 12V.
What is the signal-to-noise ratio?
The current product page specifies 103dB.
What is the published crosstalk?
The current specification lists crosstalk at 101dB.
How much power does it consume?
Maximum consumption is listed at 10W, with standby consumption below 0.5W.
How large is it?
It measures 431mm wide, 73mm high and 260mm deep.
How much does it weigh?
The published net weight is 4.1kg.
Related Advance Paris Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Independent advice from experienced Hi-Fi specialists
- CD player and amplifier system matching
- In-store demonstrations at participating branches
- RCA and balanced XLR connection advice
- Internal and external DAC comparisons
- Optical and coaxial digital-cable guidance
- Equipment-support and isolation recommendations
- Click and Reserve from participating stores
- Nationwide UK delivery on eligible products
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss connecting the Advance Paris X-CD9 to your amplifier or external DAC.