Audio T Verdict
The Arcam CD25 is the flagship Compact Disc player in the Radia range and the company describes it as the best-sounding CD player it has produced. Rather than treating CD playback as an afterthought, Arcam has built a dedicated player around a low-noise linear power supply, a vibration-damped disc mechanism and an all-new dual-mono digital-to-analogue conversion stage.
Two ESS ES9039Q2M DAC chips are used, with one assigned to each audio channel and operated in balanced mode. The aim is to improve channel separation and keep noise low, while balanced XLR outputs provide an appropriate connection to amplifiers such as the Arcam A50 Signature and SA45. Conventional RCA outputs are also provided, so the CD25 is not limited to systems with balanced connections.
Optical and coaxial digital outputs allow the CD25 to serve as a dedicated CD transport with a suitable external DAC or amplifier. It also plays compatible WAV, FLAC, MP3 and AAC files from data CD-R and CD-RW discs, although Arcam's current specification does not list USB media playback and this is a CD player rather than an SACD player.
For anyone with a substantial CD collection and a system capable of revealing the benefits of a more ambitious source, the CD25 is a serious modern player. Its strongest case is not the number of functions it offers, but the attention Arcam has given to extracting, converting and delivering the signal from physical discs.
Arcam CD25 Dual-Mono Compact Disc Player
The Arcam CD25 is a high-performance CD player developed from nearly four decades of Arcam digital-audio experience, beginning with the Delta 70 in 1986.
It sits above the CD5 as the definitive disc player in the Radia range. Its internal design separates the left and right digital-to-analogue conversion channels, supports balanced analogue output and gives the disc mechanism and power supply dedicated attention.
The CD25 can play conventional audio CDs, recordable CD-R and rewritable CD-RW discs. Compatible data discs can contain WAV, FLAC, MP3 or AAC files, while optical and coaxial digital outputs provide the option of using an external digital-to-analogue converter.
- Flagship Arcam Radia CD player
- Developed from almost 40 years of Arcam digital-audio experience
- All-new dual-mono DAC architecture
- Two ESS ES9039Q2M DAC chips
- One DAC independently processes each audio channel
- Balanced-mode digital-to-analogue conversion
- ESS reference voltage regulators
- Low-noise linear power supply
- Vibration-damped Compact Disc mechanism
- Stereo balanced XLR analogue output
- Stereo RCA analogue output
- Optical digital output
- Coaxial digital output
- Audio CD, CD-R and CD-RW playback
- WAV, FLAC, MP3 and AAC data-disc playback
- Up to 24-bit/96kHz WAV and FLAC file support
- Developed using measurement and blind listening tests
- Remote control included
- Plastic-free packaging
All-New Dual-Mono DAC Architecture
Most stereo digital sources ask a single DAC chip to convert both the left and right channels. The CD25 instead uses two ESS ES9039Q2M DACs, assigning one chip to each channel.
Each DAC processes its channel independently in balanced mode and is supported by an ESS reference voltage regulator. This arrangement is intended to improve separation between the left and right channels while reducing the noise that can obscure low-level information.
What Does Dual-Mono Mean in a CD Player?
Dual-mono means the left and right audio channels are handled by separate conversion hardware rather than sharing one stereo DAC chip. In the CD25, one ESS DAC is dedicated to each channel, helping to minimise interaction between them and supporting the player's balanced analogue output.
Two ESS ES9039Q2M DACs
The ES9039Q2M is a modern ESS digital-to-analogue converter, but the chip itself is only one part of the complete design. Power regulation, clocking, circuit layout, analogue output stages and the way the channels are configured all affect the finished result.
Arcam combines the two DACs with dedicated ESS reference voltage regulators and a dual-mono balanced arrangement rather than relying on the converter chips in a conventional shared stereo configuration.
Low-Noise Linear Power Supply
The CD25 uses a linear power supply designed to provide a stable, low-noise electrical foundation for the transport, digital circuitry, DACs and analogue output stages.
Power-supply quality is particularly important in a source component because electrical noise can affect the circuits responsible for handling and converting very small audio signals. Arcam has therefore treated the supply as a core part of the player rather than simply a means of powering the disc mechanism.
Vibration-Damped Disc Mechanism
The Compact Disc mechanism is mounted on an internal vibration-damping chassis. This is designed to reduce mechanical interference while the disc is spinning and the optical system is retrieving its data.
Stable disc reading helps the transport deliver an accurate data stream to the conversion stage. It also makes mechanical construction relevant even though the music is stored digitally.
Why Does Mechanical Design Matter for CD?
A CD player still has to spin a physical disc, track its surface and recover the encoded data in real time. A carefully mounted mechanism gives that process a more stable working environment and reduces the amount of unwanted mechanical energy reaching sensitive audio circuitry.
Developed Through Measurement and Blind Listening
Arcam says the CD25 was developed using both objective measurement and extensive blind listening tests.
This allows technical performance and listening results to inform one another during development. The published specification provides useful evidence of the player's engineering, but a demonstration with familiar music remains the best way to judge how it performs within a complete system.
CD, CD-R and CD-RW Playback
The CD25 supports three published disc types:
- Commercial audio CD
- CD-R in audio or data format
- CD-RW in audio or data format
This covers ordinary album playback as well as properly prepared recordable and rewritable discs.
The Arcam CD25 Does Not Play SACD
Arcam lists CD, CD-R and CD-RW as the supported disc formats. SACD is not included, so customers with a Super Audio CD collection should choose a compatible SACD player instead.
WAV, FLAC, MP3 and AAC Data-Disc Playback
Compatible CD-R and CD-RW data discs can contain music files in the following formats:
- WAV using LPCM audio
- FLAC
- MP3
- AAC
WAV and FLAC files can be played at 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2 and 96kHz. MP3 and AAC playback supports 32, 44.1 and 48kHz, with supported word lengths from 16 to 24 bits.
No USB Media Playback Is Listed
Unlike the Arcam CD5, the CD25's current published specification does not list USB-A storage as a supported source. Its compatible WAV, FLAC, MP3 and AAC file playback applies to data written to CD-R or CD-RW discs.
Balanced XLR Analogue Output
A stereo pair of balanced XLR outputs allows the CD25 to connect to a compatible amplifier or preamplifier using balanced analogue interconnects.
Arcam specifies a maximum output of 4.4V RMS at 0dBFS through XLR. This is twice the published 2.2V RMS maximum level of the RCA output, so care should be taken when comparing the two connections because the louder option can initially appear more impressive even when sound quality is otherwise similar.
Conventional RCA Analogue Output
A standard stereo RCA output is provided alongside XLR, allowing the CD25 to work with the great majority of integrated amplifiers, preamplifiers and active loudspeakers fitted with line-level analogue inputs.
Using either analogue connection means the CD25's twin ESS DACs and internal analogue circuitry perform the digital-to-analogue conversion before the signal reaches the amplifier.
Should I Use XLR or RCA?
Use the connection that best suits the design of the partnering amplifier and the complete system. XLR is particularly relevant with equipment offering a properly balanced signal path, but the connector alone does not guarantee better sound. Where both are available, a level-matched comparison is worthwhile.
Optical and Coaxial Digital Outputs
The CD25 includes one optical Toslink output and one coaxial RCA digital output. Either can send the digital signal from a disc to a compatible external DAC, digital preamplifier or integrated amplifier.
This allows the player to be used as a dedicated CD transport. It also gives owners the freedom to compare Arcam's dual-mono conversion stage with the DAC built into another component.
Analogue or Digital Connection?
Choose RCA or XLR when you want the CD25's internal ESS DACs to perform conversion. Choose optical or coaxial when you want a compatible external DAC or amplifier to carry out that conversion instead. Your local Audio T team can help compare the available options within your system.
The CD25 Is Not a Standalone DAC for Other Sources
Arcam lists analogue and digital outputs but no digital audio inputs. The internal dual-mono DAC stage is used for the CD25's own disc playback and cannot be selected as an external converter for a streamer, television or computer.
Arcam CD25 or CD5?
Arcam CD5
- Accessible Radia CD player
- CD, CD-R and CD-RW playback
- USB-A storage playback
- WAV, FLAC, MP3, AAC and WMA support
- Stereo RCA analogue output
- Optical and coaxial digital outputs
- Simpler and more affordable route into Arcam CD playback
Arcam CD25
- Flagship Radia CD player
- CD, CD-R and CD-RW playback
- Dual-mono ESS DAC architecture
- Low-noise linear power supply
- Vibration-damped mechanism
- Balanced XLR and RCA analogue outputs
- Optical and coaxial digital outputs
- No USB media playback listed
The Arcam CD5 remains the more straightforward choice for many systems and has the practical advantage of USB storage playback.
The CD25 is intended for more ambitious systems where its twin DACs, balanced output stage, linear power supply and vibration-controlled mechanism can be put to worthwhile use. The best choice will depend on the partnering amplifier, the resolution of the complete system and whether USB file playback is important.
Designed for the Arcam Radia Range
The CD25 shares the full-width Radia format and has been designed to partner Arcam's current amplifiers.
Balanced XLR connection makes it a natural source for the A50 Signature and Arcam SA45, while the RCA output allows it to connect directly to products such as the Arcam A25+ and SA35.
The optical and coaxial outputs provide another option with Radia amplifiers containing their own DACs, making it possible to compare conversion in the CD25 with conversion in the amplifier.
Compact Full-Width Design
The CD25 measures approximately:
- 431mm wide
- 329mm deep
- 84mm high, including the feet
Net weight is approximately 6.5kg, with a packed weight of approximately 9.5kg.
Allow Space for Connections and Ventilation
Do not select a shelf from the published dimensions alone. Leave additional depth for the mains lead and audio cables, provide suitable airflow around the player and follow Arcam's installation guidance. The specified maximum ambient operating temperature is 35°C.
Low Standby Consumption
Maximum power consumption is specified at 20W, while standby consumption is less than 0.5W.
The supplied remote control provides normal operation from the listening position and is accompanied by two AAA batteries.
Plastic-Free Packaging
The CD25 is supplied in plastic-free packaging based around natural materials intended to make disposal or recycling more straightforward.
Supplied accessories include the mains lead, remote control, two AAA batteries, Quick Start Guide and Important Safety Instructions.
Who Is the Arcam CD25 For?
- Listeners with a substantial Compact Disc collection
- High-quality separates systems
- Owners wanting a flagship source for the Arcam Radia range
- Systems with balanced XLR analogue inputs
- Systems using conventional RCA analogue inputs
- Owners wanting to compare an internal and external DAC
- Customers needing optical or coaxial digital output
- Listeners with compatible WAV, FLAC, MP3 or AAC data discs
- Customers who value dedicated physical-media playback
Who Is It Not For?
- Customers needing SACD playback
- Listeners wanting built-in network streaming
- Customers needing USB storage playback
- Anyone wanting digital inputs for use as a standalone DAC
- Customers who no longer use physical discs
- Systems unlikely to benefit from a source at this level
Key Features
- Flagship Arcam Radia CD player
- Dedicated Compact Disc playback
- Audio CD support
- Audio and data CD-R support
- Audio and data CD-RW support
- Dual-mono DAC architecture
- Two ESS ES9039Q2M DAC chips
- Independent left and right conversion
- Balanced-mode DAC operation
- ESS reference voltage regulators
- Low-noise linear power supply
- Internally damped transport mounting
- Vibration-damped CD mechanism
- Balanced stereo XLR output
- Stereo RCA output
- 4.4V RMS maximum XLR output
- 2.2V RMS maximum RCA output
- Optical digital output
- Coaxial digital output
- 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response
- WAV LPCM data-disc playback
- FLAC data-disc playback
- MP3 data-disc playback
- AAC data-disc playback
- 16 to 24-bit file support
- WAV and FLAC up to 96kHz
- Blind-listening development
- Remote control included
- Less than 0.5W standby consumption
- Plastic-free packaging
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Arcam CD25?
The Arcam CD25 is the flagship Compact Disc player in the Radia range. It combines a vibration-damped disc mechanism, low-noise linear power supply, twin ESS ES9039Q2M DACs and balanced XLR, RCA, optical and coaxial outputs.
What discs does the Arcam CD25 play?
It supports commercial audio CDs together with CD-R and CD-RW discs prepared in compatible audio or data formats.
Does the Arcam CD25 play SACD?
No. Arcam's published specification lists CD, CD-R and CD-RW playback but does not include SACD.
What DAC does the Arcam CD25 use?
It uses two ESS ES9039Q2M DAC chips. One DAC independently processes each audio channel in balanced mode.
What does dual-mono DAC mean?
The left and right channels use separate DAC chips rather than sharing one stereo converter. This is intended to improve channel separation and reduce interaction between the two channels.
Does the CD25 have balanced outputs?
Yes. A stereo pair of balanced XLR analogue outputs is provided alongside a conventional stereo RCA output.
What is the output level?
Arcam specifies maximum analogue output at 0dBFS as 2.2V RMS through RCA and 4.4V RMS through XLR.
Can I connect the CD25 to an amplifier without XLR inputs?
Yes. The standard stereo RCA output will connect to a suitable line-level input on most integrated amplifiers, preamplifiers and active loudspeakers.
Can the CD25 be used as a CD transport?
Yes. Optical and coaxial digital outputs allow the signal to be sent to a compatible external DAC or an amplifier with digital inputs.
Can I connect a streamer to the CD25's DAC?
No. Arcam lists digital outputs but no digital audio inputs, so the internal DAC stage is not available to external source equipment.
Does the CD25 play music from USB storage?
Arcam's current specification does not list USB storage as a supported source. Compatible audio-file playback is provided from data CD-R and CD-RW discs.
Which audio files does the CD25 support?
Compatible data discs can contain WAV using LPCM audio, FLAC, MP3 or AAC files.
What is the maximum file resolution?
WAV and FLAC playback supports word lengths from 16 to 24 bits and sample rates up to 96kHz. MP3 and AAC support sample rates up to 48kHz.
Does the Arcam CD25 stream music?
No. It does not include Wi-Fi, Ethernet or an integrated music-streaming platform. It is a dedicated disc player.
What is the difference between the Arcam CD25 and CD5?
The CD25 is the flagship model and adds dual-mono ESS conversion, balanced XLR output, a low-noise linear power supply and a vibration-damped mechanism. The CD5 is a simpler, more affordable player and includes USB-A storage playback, which is not listed for the CD25.
Which Arcam amplifiers suit the CD25?
Arcam highlights the A50 Signature and SA45 as natural balanced partners. Its RCA outputs also allow connection to the A25+, SA35 and other suitable amplifiers from Arcam or different manufacturers.
How large is the Arcam CD25?
It measures approximately 431mm wide, 329mm deep and 84mm high including the feet.
How much does the Arcam CD25 weigh?
Net weight is approximately 6.5kg, with a packed weight of approximately 9.5kg.
What comes with the CD25?
It is supplied with a mains lead, remote control, two AAA batteries, Quick Start Guide and Important Safety Instructions.
Related Arcam Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy the Arcam CD25 From Audio T?
A high-quality source should be judged as part of a complete system. Audio T can help compare the CD25 with the CD5, choose between XLR, RCA, optical and coaxial connections, and determine whether the partnering amplifier and loudspeakers will make worthwhile use of the CD25's more ambitious design.
Bring a few well-known CDs to your local store and our team can help you listen for the differences that matter to you. If you are replacing an existing player, part exchange may also make the upgrade more straightforward.
- Friendly specialist Hi-Fi advice
- In-store demonstrations where available
- CD25 and CD5 comparisons
- Amplifier and loudspeaker matching
- Balanced XLR and RCA connection advice
- Optical and coaxial digital connection advice
- Internal and external DAC comparisons
- Suitable interconnect guidance
- Equipment-rack and placement advice
- Part-exchange options
- Home demonstration options where appropriate
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to discuss the Arcam CD25, suitable partnering equipment or arranging a demonstration.