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Sony SCD-XA5400ES ES Series SACD Player review

Posted to Audio Components 2010-05-12

The Sony SCD-XA5400ES is a new multi-channel audiophile quality SA-CD (Super Audio CD) player from Sony. It features multi-channel Direct Stream Digital decoding, an HDMI output, and multi-channel and 2-channel SA-CD playback. Other features include a discrete laser/optical pickup system with dual lasers, an aluminum front panel and CD playback.

The SCD-XA4500ES also features gold plated contacts on connectors, both coaxial and optical digital outputs for the CD, and SA-CD text/CD text capability. It includes 2 R-core power transformers, RCA audio output jacks and off-center insulator feet. The unit consumes 15W of power and comes with a full-featured remote control unit. The unit produces uncompressed digital output for the Direct Stream Digital output via HDMI.

Rating:

3.2 out of 5

Value

The SCD-XA5400ES is a nice unit, but you'll need to be an audiophile to justify the price of this unit. SA-CD is still a newer technology, but you could buy a complete mid-range sound system or home theater system for the price of this device. That being said, the unit performs flawlessly, the mechanical operation is silky smooth and quiet and the build quality is top notch.

Performance

The SCD-XA5400ES delivers awesome sound from SA-CDs. This all-digital technology is the audio equivalent of Blu-ray HD video, and the sound is truly impressive. The deck loads fast, which has been a problem with some of the competition, and as mentioned previously the mechanical operation is very positive, quiet and silky smooth. The ability to deliver 2-channel SA-CD sound is a nice bonus, as is the ability to play regular CDs. There's plenty of I/O to fit your system, and the included remote control is well laid-out and easy to use.

Summary

If you're an audiophile ready to make the jump to SA-CD, this could be your chance. The unit is expensive, even when compared to the competition, but it delivers impressive sound quality. The build quality and operation are audiophile grade, and there's good legacy support for CDs. All in all a very good offering from Sony, if you can afford it.

Pros

Multi-channel Direct Stream Digital decoding
2-channel SA-CD playback
HDMI output for SA-CD
Optical and coaxial digital output for CD

Cons

Very expensive

Recommended accessory:

Monster Cable I300MKII-2M : Solid Core Technology Audio Interconnect (2 meter/ 6.56 ft)