Cambridge Audio AZUR 840C.... Intriguing!

[Adz]

I am in the process of setting up a 2 channel "mid-fi" demo room and I'm interested in Cambridge Audio's latest audiophile grade CD player. Taken from their website, the 840C boasts several proprietary technologies including ATF™ (Adaptive Time Filtering) asynchronous up-sampling technology which has been developed in conjunction with Anagram Technologies of Switzerland. This system intelligently interpolates 16-bit/44.1kHz CD data to 24-bit/384kHz data, through the use of a 32-bit Analog Devices Black Fin DSP (digital signal processor). This in turn feeds two 24-bit/384kHz DACs from the same company in dual differential formation.

Each DAC handles just one channel for excellent stereo imaging, operating fully in differential mode for exceptionally low distortion and noise.

Both unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR outputs are fitted. Two digital inputs are also provided which even allow the up-sampling and playback of other sources such as a DVD player via the Azur 840C. In addition, a recording digital output can even allow bit-for-bit data or upsampled data at 48, 96 or 192 kHz to be recorded by a suitable device.

As with all Azur products, the foundation of the 840C’s excellence is a bespoke chassis. This comprises an incredibly thick 7mm front panel and extruded side panels, both fashioned from aluminium, which combines with a 2mm formed steel base plate and specially designed vibration absorbing feet. The result is an ultra rigid, low resonance, acoustically dampened platform for the electronics to sit in.

If anyone has any experiences (or other feedback) on this unit, please let me know.

MSRP $1,499 (USD)
Azur 840C features

Adaptive Time Filtering (ATF) asynchronous up-sampling technology converting 16-bit 44.1 kHz CD data to 24-bit 384kHz 32-bit Analog Devices Black Fin DSP

Dual differential DAC configuration using high-end Analog Devices AD1955 DACs

Fully differential anti-aliasing topolopgy based on linear phase Bessel filters

DC servo circuitry with no capacitors in the signal path
Two digital inputs allowing up-sampling and playback of other sources Digital outputs allow recording of up-sampled audio Control Bus In/Out, IR emitter in and RS232 for easy multi-room compatibility

Extruded aluminium side panels and solid aluminium front panel plus an ultra rigid, acoustically dampened chassis Navigator style Azur remote control which also controls Azur amplifiers Available in silver or black
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[Qruzer]

Well I'm a proud new owner.

This player is wonderful. I had the pleasure of testing it with different music - comparing it to the audio dacs of the Denon 3910. This player has proved it's worthiness. I listen to it everyday. I've never had such 3-d imaging in my living room. Sonically it brings your cd music alive.

Now this player has interesting abilities beyond it's analog performance. It can take other sources digital outs and upscale the feed. What i want to is feed my Denon 3806 XM playback through the 840C, it looks possible but I cannot figure out the digital outs of the Denon 3806. I found 2 optical outs from the 3806 but I cannot seem to understand how to create the path through setup options. i suppose the XM signal cannot be turned into a PCM.

Outside of this small thing -Look at the Cambridge, it's got a bullet proof plate - and nice feet. Easy and fast load times - and fantastic sound seperation. My ears at this age have probably hit it's 'disconcerning' peak. I'm incredibly happy with this purchase -

[htaddikt]

I have the 740C as I wanted the upscaling feature like the 840C plus the 2 additional inputs. The entire line of these CD players is quite incredible.

[rcarlton]

I have been happy with the 640C. Have been looking closely at the McIntosh MCD-201 but could not hear enough difference to justify the 10 fold cost difference. I bet the 840C really sings. Might put this on my short list.