What is an Audio CD Player?
A CD player is a device that plays audio compact discs in a digital optical format. This data in digital formats can either be music videos or audio and are usually stored in CDs.
Besides, there are various options on the player. Most of these sound systems installed are usually Hi-Fi systems complete with all the necessary digital inputs and the remote control.
A CD player is made up of two major parts:
- Transport - This is the mechanism that holds, reads and spins the CD.
- Digital to analog converter (DAC) - This is responsible for converting the digital data on the CD to an analog audio signal that is then transmitted via the speakers as music sound.
These two components are housed in a single chassis hence the term CD player. In some other high-end systems, they are separated. That's why you need an amplifier or a receiver to project the sound.
What do I consider when buying a Cambridge CD player?
There are different brands available in the market. For example, Cambridge Audio. They have the Topaz CD10 that is an entry level Hi-Fi system with high sound quality and good value for money. The Azur 851C is a high-end CD player system that also performs well.
There are various things that you should look out for when buying a player so that you can get the best. Here are some:
- Digital sources and outputs - You can always get better sound when you connect your player to your receiver via a digital connection and not an analog one. Find out what type of digital inputs and outputs you have before buying your player.
- Remote control - Most manufacturers have special connectors in their components which allow you to control several devices using the same remote control. However, most of the essential features like the volume control are usually on the menu option of the sound system.
- Multidisc abilities - If you love to load several CDs on your player so that they play sequentially, then you can consider a CD changer. This one can hold up to 5-10 discs.
How does a CD audio player work?
A CD player uses laser technology to store data and play it.
- Inside the CD player, there is a miniature laser beam that when you press play, the beam lights up and scans the shiny part of the disc.
- Every time the light reflects back, electric current is generated and data transmitted alongside. When the light does not reflect, the photocell notices there's no information there and does not register anything.
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