Aesthetix Romulus MkII CD Player/DAC
Best high-end CD player for audiophiles seeking warm, tube-driven digital sound.
The Aesthetix Romulus MKII is a high-performance CD player and DAC that combines exceptional audio reproduction with robust build quality. It features a dedicated Red Book CD transport mechanism and a sophisticated digital-to-analog conversion stage utilizing the Burr-Brown PCM1792A. The Romulus MKII offers ultra-low jitter USB and SPDIF inputs, supporting high-resolution audio up to 192KHz/24-bit. Its vacuum tube-based analog stage, coupled with zero-feedback circuitry, delivers a rich and detailed sound. Constructed with an all-aluminum chassis and isolated sections, it ensures pristine audio performance.
$9950.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
112
/ 288
#112 in CD Players & Recorders
Price vs Category Average
+116%
Above average
Unit Weight
40
/ Lbs
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking natural, analog-like sonic warmth
- Listeners wanting a unified high-resolution digital hub
- Collectors prioritizing long-term build quality and reliability
Who should skip it
- Casual listeners on a strict budget
- Users preferring low-maintenance, solid-state equipment
- Owners with limited shelf space or compact racks
Performance breakdown
Analog Warmth
Vacuum tube output stage provides a lush, organic, and detailed sound.
Jitter Suppression
Precision clocking and optical isolation ensure a remarkably clean digital signal.
Build Integrity
Heavy-duty aluminum chassis and isolated sections reflect true high-end craftsmanship.
Transport Precision
Dedicated Teac drive mechanism delivers reliable, low-jitter Red Book playback.
DAC Versatility
Burr-Brown chip handles high-resolution files with impressive clarity and depth.
System Integration
Optional volume control allows for a streamlined, direct-to-amplifier connection.
Key Specs
Unit Weight
40 Lbs
Dimensions
18" width x 4 3/8" height x 18" depth
CD mechanism
Teac drive, Red Book only
Digital inputs
USB, SPDIF (AES/EBU, RCA Coax, Toslink)
USB audio class 1
96KHz / 24bit
USB audio class 2
192KHz / 24bit
SPDIF capable of 192KHz / 24 bit
DAC section
Burr-Brown PCM1792A
Features
- Dedicated Red Book CD transport for minimal jitter
- Ultra-low jitter USB and SPDIF inputs
- Vacuum tube-based analog stage with zero feedback
- Proprietary DSP for adaptive oversampling filters
- USB noise isolation via optical couplers
- Precision clocking with custom-cut crystal oscillators
- Fully differential DAC implementation
- Optional high-resolution volume control for direct amplifier connection
- Vacuum tube analog stages for warm, detailed sound
- Dedicated and isolated CD transport for optimal playback
- Advanced noise isolation with stainless steel faraday cage
- Low jitter clocking for pristine digital audio conversion
- High quality construction with premium components
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Aesthetix Romulus MkII for its exceptional sound quality, often describing it as rich, detailed, and engaging. Its robust build and elegant design also receive high marks, reflecting a truly premium audio experience. Users appreciate its versatility as both a CD player and a high performance DAC, making it a central piece in sophisticated audio setups. While a significant investment, many feel its sonic prowess justifies the cost, delivering an immersive listening experience.
Know before you buy
Yes, the Romulus MKII features a comprehensive suite of digital inputs, including USB, AES/EBU, RCA Coax, and Toslink, allowing you to connect external streamers or transports to utilize its high-performance Burr-Brown DAC.
No, the internal Teac transport is specifically engineered for Red Book CD playback only. It is designed to provide the highest possible performance for standard CDs rather than universal disc compatibility.
Yes, the unit features an optional high-resolution volume control, which allows you to bypass a traditional preamplifier and connect the Romulus MKII directly to your power amplifier.
The vacuum tube-based analog stage, combined with zero-feedback circuitry, provides a signature warmth and harmonic richness that many listeners find more natural and engaging than standard solid-state designs.
The USB input supports high-resolution audio up to 192KHz/24-bit when using USB Audio Class 2, and the SPDIF inputs are also capable of handling signals up to 192KHz/24-bit.
The Romulus MKII employs advanced isolation techniques, including a stainless steel Faraday cage and two dedicated transformers specifically for the CD drive, to ensure that mechanical and electrical noise does not interfere with the sensitive DAC circuitry.
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$9950