UG10 P05-6

9/11/05

12:35 pm

Page 33
CD PLAYERS l Hi-fi Ultimate Guides Cyrus CD6
When it comes to dynamics and detail resolution, the Cyrus CD6 is difficult to beat

n AGAINST

Fascia controls are awkward to operate

l VERDICT

Its detail and dynamics astound just how an Award-winning player should sound. The CD6 is a class act
THE CYRUS CD6, winner of a 2004 WHAT HI-FI SOUND AND VISION bestin-class Award, has been at the top of the CD heap for a little while now. The narrow, compact and sturdy casework is in Cyruss trademark style, and the fact that the chassis is identical to its more expensive sibling, the CD8x, can only be reassuring. But what gives the CD6 its class-leading status is the most important factor: its detailed, dynamic and precise performance.
So whats so special about the CD6? First, its presentation has a rhythmic exactitude that lets you hear and feel every note and beat of the music, accurate to the microsecond. And then theres the sublime dynamic response, reproducing sudden changes in volume levels with scintillating speed and sweeping accuracy. And it handles the the subtlest micro-dynamics the smallest differences in volume, between consecutive notes in a piano performance, for example with an assurance and authority that nothing else in its price class can match.
If there is a criticism of the CD6 and there really isnt, at the price its that the bass is a little lean. In truth, the Cyruss bass performance is very good, creating a fine balance between body and articulation. What it lacks in sheer weight it makes up for in punch. But if youre looking for bass of the full-fat variety, there are other players that might suit you better. But if you value dynamics and detail above all else, this is the player for you. The CD6 grabs Courtney Pines Devotion set and brings out nuances that other players miss entirely. And its delivery brims with

REPRODUCED FROM

pace, power and bite. Others might offer greater bass weight but the Cyrus keeps such a tight grip on low frequencies that you hardly notice. This is a thoroughbred player that leaves most rivals trailing. There are some recent rivals that push the Cyrus close closer than ever before but as an all-rounder theres still no player to beat the CD6. For dynamics, clarity and rhythmic timing as well as for offering more upgrade options than any of its rivals the Cyrus retains its class-leading status at this price. Quite simply, the CD6 is the most impressive sound-per-pound CD player on the market today.

AT A GLANCE

ELECTRICAL DIGITAL OUTPUT

RCA OUTPUT

BALANCED OUTPUT

OPTICAL DIGITAL OUTPUT

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