Precision CD mechanism and dual analogue outputs for the Michi Prestige series
Michi Q430 is a CD player with a precision floating mechanism, 8-channel ESS ES9028PRO DAC, balanced XLR and RCA outputs, and a machined aluminium chassis.
The Prestige player focuses its design on disc reading and conversion, avoiding functions unnecessary to an optical source. The floating tray mechanism is powered by a low-noise section, while the ESS DAC operates in differential configuration and sends the signal to separate analogue stages for the balanced and unbalanced outputs.
Key features
- Precision floating-tray CD mechanism.
- 8-channel ESS SABRE ES9028PRO DAC.
- Differential analogue circuitry.
- Balanced XLR and RCA outputs.
- Coaxial digital output for use as a transport.
- Signal-to-noise ratio above 125 dB on XLR.
- Channel separation above 110 dB on XLR at 10 kHz.
- Machined aluminium chassis and colour TFT display.
CD mechanism
Q430 uses a precision mechanism with a floating tray, designed to isolate the reading assembly from chassis vibration. The motor and servo are powered by a low-noise section to limit their influence on conversion.
ES9028PRO DAC
The 8-channel ESS SABRE ES9028PRO converter is used in differential configuration for the stereo signal. Having multiple internal channels available helps improve signal-to-noise ratio and reduce distortion while keeping the two analogue paths separate.
XLR and RCA outputs
Analogue outputs are available on both balanced XLR and RCA. Declared level is 4.2 V on XLR and 1.96 V on RCA, allowing Q430 to match preamplifiers or integrated amplifiers with different sensitivities and, where available, maintain a fully balanced signal chain.
Analogue performance
Declared THD is below 0.0006% and frequency response runs from 20 Hz to 20 kHz within +0/-0.3 dB. Signal-to-noise ratio exceeds 120 dB on RCA and 125 dB on XLR, while declared dynamic range is above 99 dB.
Channel separation
Channel separation exceeds 105 dB at 10 kHz on the RCA outputs and 110 dB on XLR. The balanced topology limits crosstalk and interference between the two channels.
Digital output
A coaxial digital output allows Q430 to be used as a pure CD transport with an external DAC. It is therefore possible to choose between the internal ESS DAC and an external converter.
Low-noise power supply
The power-supply section is designed to separate the demands of the mechanism from the digital and analogue circuits. Reducing noise from motors and servos is especially important in a CD player, because clock and output stages work with signals sensitive to interference.
TFT display
The front panel incorporates a colour TFT display showing playback information and maintaining an interface consistent with the Michi Prestige range. Physical controls remain dedicated to the essential player functions, without introducing complex menus or streaming features unrelated to the design.
Chassis and dimensions
The machined aluminium chassis measures 431 x 148 x 385 mm and weighs 8.8 kg. The rigid structure supports the mechanism and circuit boards on a stable reference, while the glass-and-metal front follows the visual language of the other Michi Prestige components.
