Precise CD playback, dedicated conversion and a low-noise audio path
Rotel CD-14 MKII is a CD player with a smooth-tray mechanism and separate power supplies for servo and audio, 32-bit/384 kHz Texas Instruments DAC and RCA analogue outputs, designed to reproduce optical media through a dedicated chain.
The design separates the mechanism, servo and power supply from the sensitive audio sections. A 32-bit/384 kHz Texas Instruments DAC converts the signal for the analogue outputs, while a coaxial digital output also allows the player to be used as a transport into an external DAC. Independent supplies isolate motor control from the audio circuits, and a 12 V trigger coordinates power with a Rotel amplifier.
Key features
- CD mechanism with smooth tray and separate power supplies for servo and audio.
- 32-bit/384 kHz Texas Instruments DAC.
- RCA analogue outputs.
- Coaxial digital output.
- CD and MP3 file playback on compatible media.
- Declared THD of 0.0035% at 1 kHz.
- Signal-to-noise ratio above 118 dB.
- 430 x 98 x 314 mm chassis weighing 6.51 kg.
Disc mechanism
The CD mechanism uses a smooth tray and separate supplies for servo and audio. The optical assembly and motor are designed to track the disc precisely while limiting vibration and mechanical noise, so the digital signal is extracted under stable conditions before reaching the converter or digital output.
Internal DAC
A 32-bit/384 kHz Texas Instruments DAC feeds the analogue outputs and allows the player to be used as a complete source without requiring an external DAC. The converter and output filters are integrated with the power supply and analogue layout.
Power supply and layout
The sections dedicated to the motor, servo and audio circuits are managed to reduce mutual interference. Separating these paths limits noise that could reach the DAC and analogue stages and keeps the player focused on accurate reproduction of optical media.
Analogue outputs
RCA analogue outputs carry the converted signal directly to an integrated amplifier or preamplifier, using the player's DAC and output stages as an active part of the audio chain.
Digital output
The coaxial digital output allows CD-14 MKII to operate as a pure CD transport, leaving conversion to an external DAC, digital preamplifier or integrated amplifier equipped with its own converter.
Formats and playback
CDs and MP3 files on compatible media can be reproduced. Playback functions remain centred on the disc, with track management from the front panel and remote and, where available, display of media information.
Performance and chassis
Declared THD is 0.0035% at 1 kHz and signal-to-noise ratio is above 118 dB. The chassis measures 430 x 98 x 314 mm and weighs 6.51 kg, providing a stable base for the mechanism while keeping the power-supply area separated from the analogue stages.