Synthesis Roma 14DC+ CD Player

Synthesis Roma 14DC+ is a top-quality CD player with some impressive features. It has extra digital inputs to make use of the DAC with your other digital sources, as well as a valve output stage for a warmer sound. The stunning looks match the rest of the Roma range.

The extra inputs make this a versatile unit that can stand alone or be part of a bigger Roma system. The design provides remarkable sound for the price. The large case keeps the PSU components well away from any sensitive audio circuits.

There is also a valve output stage that will provide a smooth sound from otherwise harsh digital sources. Finally, the user interface is simple and easy to use.

Premium TEAC CD mechanism

Roma 14DC+ features a high-quality TEAC CD transport that is specifically designed for audio work. As a result, it extracts all of the music from the disk with the minimum of jitter and interference. The built-in DAC uses the renowned Asahi Kasei AK4495S chipset for a smooth and clean sound. Finally, the user interface is clean simple and to operate. The drawer mechanism is robust and will last a lifetime.

Extra digital inputs

The Roma 14DC+ CD player is made more versatile by the addition of extra digital inputs. Coaxial and optical digital inputs are provided as well as USB. This means that you can connect all of your digital sources and play them through the valve output stage. The inputs can play hi-res files up to 32-bit 384 kHz PCM as well as DSD up to 5.6 MHz. Moreover, the 14DC + has an ECC88 valve output stage. This gives a smooth valve sound to your digital sources

Custom power supply

The 14DC+ has a large case that keeps the power supply transformer well away from any sensitive audio circuits. The transformer is also oversized and well shielded. This means that the power supply rails will have less hum and noise for a very clean sound. Metalised polypropylene capacitors are used in the audio path for better sound and reliability. This is important as valves work at high voltage and poor capacitors can short or go leaky.

Why valve output stages?

Before transistors, valves were the only way to amplify an audio signal. The first valve was invented in 1903 and they were mainly used for early radio. In fact they were not used for voice transmission until WWI. These early transmitters used the famous “R” valve, that became the backbone of early broadcast radio receivers. Broadcasting began around 1920 in the UK and US. Valves dominated until the 1970’s when transistor amplifiers became ubiquitous.

Valve amplifiers always maintained a following and are still in use today, the main reason being the warm sound. This is especially useful when used as the output of a digital source as is the case here, as the warm valve design can help to reduce any harshness in the sound.