MBL 1621 A CD Transport
Best ultimate source for discerning audiophiles seeking unparalleled digital playback.
Experience unparalleled audio fidelity with this high-performance CD transport. Engineered for the discerning audiophile, it meticulously extracts the purest digital signal from your CD collection. Its robust, resonance-free enclosure and advanced vibration isolation techniques ensure a calm, composed, and unruffled sound image. Featuring a premium CD PRO 2 LF module and versatile digital outputs, it's the ideal component for preserving the integrity of your music when paired with a capable DAC.
$33399.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
2
/ 415
#2 in CD Players & Recorders
Price vs Category Average
+625%
Above average
Digital Outputs
11040
/ XLR (AES/EBU) Output Impedance Ohm Bandwidth MHz
Who it's for
- Discerning audiophiles seeking the absolute best CD playback
- Luxury audio enthusiasts valuing enduring quality and sophisticated design
- Serious music lovers prioritizing ultimate sonic transparency and depth
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious consumers or those seeking more accessible high-fidelity options
- Listeners preferring integrated playback solutions or simpler setups
- Modern music consumers with diverse digital libraries beyond physical CDs
Performance breakdown
Signal Integrity
The CD PRO 2 LF module extracts data with surgical precision.
Vibration Control
Advanced sub-chassis isolation eliminates mechanical interference for a stable soundstage.
Build Quality
Solid aluminum housing provides a tank-like foundation for sensitive internal components.
Connectivity Versatility
Dual digital outputs offer flexible integration with high-end external DACs.
Mechanical Stability
The precision stabilizer puck ensures consistent rotation and flawless disc reading.
Setup Precision
Adjustable leveling allows for perfect alignment on any audiophile rack.
Key Specs
Digital Outputs
XLR (AES/EBU) Output Impedance 110 Ohm Bandwidth 40 MHz
Digital Outputs
RCA (S/P DIF) Output Impedance 75 Ohm Bandwidth 40 MHz
CD Mechanism
CD PRO 2 LF Module
Formats
Standard Compact Disk (Red Book) Resolution 16 Bit Sample Rate 44.1 kHz Number of Channels 2 Modulation EFM
Weight
26 kg / 57 lbs
Output Transformer Bandwidth
98.7 MHz
Sub-chassis
6 kg (13.2 lb) constructed from brass, aluminium and Terodem
Resonance Frequency
13 Hz
Know before you buy
No, the 1621 A is a dedicated CD transport. It is designed to extract and transmit a pure digital signal, so you will need to connect it to an external DAC to convert that signal into an analog sound.
It provides both XLR (AES/EBU) and RCA (S/P DIF) digital outputs. These allow you to connect to a wide range of high-end DACs while maintaining signal integrity.
The 6 kg sub-chassis is constructed from brass, aluminum, and Terodem to isolate the laser mechanism from external vibrations. This mechanical decoupling ensures the disc rotates smoothly, which helps the laser read data with greater precision.
Yes, the CD PRO 2 LF module is compatible with standard Red Book CDs as well as CD-R discs, giving you flexibility for your burned music collections.
The 57 lb weight is a result of the solid aluminum housing and the heavy-duty sub-chassis designed to eliminate resonance. Because of this mass and the need for optimal vibration control, it is best placed on a sturdy, level equipment rack.
The puck sits on top of the disc to ensure it remains perfectly flat and centered during rotation. This minimizes wobble and helps the drive maintain a consistent read speed for a more stable digital output.
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$33399