ARCAM / Dual-Mono CD Player
Give the discs their due.
The CD25 is for the listener whose shelves still contain a large part of their musical life. ARCAM uses separate DAC chips for the left and right channels, a linear power supply and a vibration-damped disc mechanism. The attention is on the entire playback chain, from reading the disc to handing an analog signal to your amplifier.
The House of Stereo perspective
Where the CD25 fits.
Balanced XLR and conventional RCA outputs let it work with a range of systems, while optical and coaxial outputs leave the door open to an external DAC. It is a natural partner to consider with the A50 Signature. Matching badges are optional; the right connections and a convincing listening experience are not.
At a glance
CD25 specifications
Separate channels from conversion to the output.
The CD25 uses two ESS ES9039Q2M converters, one per channel operating in balanced mode, with ESS reference voltage regulators. A low-noise linear power supply and a vibration-damped disc mechanism support that architecture. Balanced XLR and RCA outputs give it a place in both balanced systems and conventional integrated-amplifier setups.
Its maximum analogue output is 4.4V RMS over XLR and 2.2V RMS over RCA, so compare the two at matched listening levels. Optical and coaxial outputs are available for an external DAC. Compatible data discs support WAV, FLAC, MP3 and AAC; higher sample rates apply to WAV/FLAC. The CD25 is focused on disc playback: it does not inherit the CD5’s USB-storage playback merely because it sits higher in the range.
Full technical specifications
Manufacturer specifications. Power figures retain their load, bandwidth and channels-driven conditions. Regional mains versions and firmware-dependent features should be checked for your unit.
Playback
Supported media: CD (Audio), CD-R (Audio / Data), CD-RW (Audio / Data)
Supported files (Data): WAV (LPCM), FLAC, MP3, AAC
Supported Bit depth: 16 bit – 24 bit
Supported sample rates (kHz): 96, 88.2, 48, 44.1, 32 kHz (WAV & FLAC only), 48, 44.1, 32 kHz (MP3/AAC)
Outputs
Digital Outputs: 2 (1 Optical, 1 Coaxial)
Analogue Outputs: 2 (1 RCA Pair, 1 XLR Pair)
Maximum Analogue Output (0dBFS, RCA/XLR): 2.2/4.4VRMS
Signal/Noise ratio (A-wtd, ref. 16-bit/24-bit, 0dBFS): 93dB/115dB
Frequency Response (default filter): 20 Hz – 20 kHz ±0.1 dB
General
Mains Voltage: 100–120V or 220–240V, 50/60 Hz
Maximum power consumption: 20 W
Standby power consumption: <0.5 W
Maximum ambient operating temperature: 35°C/95°F
Dimensions W x D (including speaker terminals) x H (including feet): 431 x 329 x 84 mm
Weight (net): 6.5 kg
Weight (gross): 9.5 kg
Supplied accessories:
Mains lead(s)
Remote control with 2 x AAA batteries
Quick Start Guide
Important Safety Instructions
Manuals, setup guides and downloads
ARCAM product support and current downloads
External resources open in a new tab. Check the model and follow ARCAM’s instructions before installing firmware. Manuals may describe regional versions or features added through updates.
Independent reviews
Publisher opinions are separate from House of Stereo’s advice. Review-era prices, software and specifications can differ from current information.
What Hi-Fi? — CD25 review
A detailed listening review covering clarity, dynamics, disc handling and the available outputs.
A few useful answers
Can I order this online?
Please call House of Stereo at 904-642-6677 to order. We will confirm availability, system compatibility and delivery details with you.
Will this power my speakers?
No. This is a source component or processor, not a speaker amplifier. It needs suitable amplification or an appropriately configured active speaker system.
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