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Sony CDP-CX355 review : CD MegaStorage 300 Disc Changer

Posted to Audio Components 2010-05-21

True music fans with near-endless collections of CDs will appreciate the quality and capabilities of the Sony CDP-CX355 CD MegaStorage 300 Disc Changer (CDP-CX355). Gone are the days of 5, 10, or even 20 disc changers. Even more so, with the advent of technologies such as Advanced Mega Control, you can even use this device to control a second CD changer- potentially expanding your playlist to 600 discs. Because the price seems fairly reasonable, most consumers agree that this model is a must-buy for music fans who want to get a better grasp on their collections.

Measuring approximately 17" x 7 1/2" x 19 3/8" and weighing 18 lbs 12 oz, the Sony CDP-CX355 fits nicely in virtually any accommodating entertainment cabinet. Features like Hit Lists, jog shuttle, Group File, and the Custom File Disc Memo Display make this device very popular for modern fans who want their collections organized electronically and without the use of a computer. If you're ready to transfer that closet of hundreds of CDs to a relatively-compact disc player and changer, then by all means consider this one to do the job.

Rating:

4.2 out of 5

Quality

The Sony CD MegaStorage 300 Disc Changer is an excellent upgrade or replacement to older disc changer systems, but more importantly, the audio quality easily out-beats the older hardware. The quality of this model is not perfect, especially since the durability of the device can be questioned (thanks to complex audio and motor processing); however, it is difficult to find any other better-sounding disc changer with such an immense storage capacity for the price.

Features

Simply put, this disc changer is laden with features that are both helpful and intuitive to the listener. First off, it comes with a variety of ports to meet any range of multimedia needs- one Analog Variable Line Output, one Control A-1 II Interface, a headphone output, one optical audio output, and two RC audio outputs. Additionally, there are convenience features like the Fade In/Out function, CD Text Display, Music Calendar, Step Programming, and more.

Summary

There are very few large-capacity disc changers on the market today that can compare to Sony CD MegaStorage 300 Disc Changer (CDP-CX355). For roughly the price of a modern turntable, you can bring your entire CD music collection into one device- no ripping or computer operations necessary. If you are looking for the convenience of an MP3 player with the quality and era of a CD, then look no further than this mass-storage CD disc changer. It is the ultimate stereo disc changer.

Pros

Massive- holds up to 300 discs (600 with additional changer)
Capable- reads burned music CDs, and features CD Text Display
Quality- pristine audio capacity and quality brought by Sony
Upgraded- variety of modern features make old changers obsolete

Cons

Imperfect- performance is great, but durability is questionable

Recommended accessory:

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