Designed to improve the CD player experience, the Michi Q5 Transport DAC uses an ESS ES9028PRO DAC chip, implemented in a fully balanced, fully differential circuit design for precise audio reproduction while maintaining a low noise floor for pristine sound quality.

Daren Orth, Chief Technical Officer, Rotel, shared with StereoNET:

The Michi Q5 Transport DAC is crafted for those who demand the best in both performance and aesthetics. Its premium construction, exceptional audio quality, versatile connectivity, and advanced control options make it the ultimate CD player for high-end audio systems.

Four channels within the DAC are dedicated to both the left and right audio signal paths for better detail retrieval and a wide soundstage. As a CD Transport, both the coaxial and optical outputs get CD audio for additional installation flexibility.

The top-loading CD mechanism has a precision optical laser pickup and is housed in a CNC-machined aluminium chassis with a custom floating spring assembly to reduce unwanted vibrations by providing a stable platform. By isolating the sensitive electronic circuits from physical disturbances, Rotel claims this will ensure the highest level of performance for the Michi Q5.

The elegant front panel of the Q5 is a testament to Michi’s minimalist design philosophy, featuring a full-color TFT display that showcases CD album artwork to enhance your listening enjoyment with visual appeal. The included Michi remote provides intuitive, seamless operation, while RS232 and Ethernet ports enable integration with popular automation systems, ensuring easy management of your audio setup.

Inside, the Michi Q5 Transport DAC is equipped with dual in-house manufactured toroidal transformers that isolate the digital and analogue voltage supplies to reduce noise and interference. The voltage and current supplies for the CD drive motor are also electrically isolated from the audio signal to prevent motor noise from affecting the sound quality. 

Aside from CD playback capabilities, the Q5 also supports inputs like USB for audio quality up to 32-bit / 384kHz with MQA and DSD 4X support. There are also coaxial and optical inputs for up to 24-bit / 192kHz so that the Michi Q5 can act as a DAC for existing audio systems.

The Rotel Michi Q5 CD Player, Transport, and DAC will be available in November 2024 at a recommended retail price of £5,499/ €5,999.

Visit Rotel for more information