Michi, the high-end division of Japanese electronics specialist Rotel, rounds out its offerings with the new Q5 Transport DAC catering to the venerable CD format while also providing the latest digital-to-analogue converter technologies.
The new Q5 Transport DAC features a top-loading CD player mated to a multiple input digital-to-analogue converter featuring top-grade ESS Technology ES9028PRO eight channel converters (4 channels per Left/Right). The onboard DAC is a fully balanced, fully differential design presenting a low distortion, low noise floor via the Q5’s analogue outputs.
The CD transport mechanism is assembled from “premium CNC aluminium” which promises longevity and reliability. A floating spring assembly is employed in order to reduce vibrational distortions while the motor is physically isolated from electronic circuits which may be sensitive to its potential distortion.
The Q5 Transport DAC offers comprehensive connectivity options. Starting with the digital inputs, the DAC features an S/PDIF RCA coaxial and a Toslink optical option, both capable of playing up to 24-bit/192 kHz resolution. The USB-audio input can accept data up to 32-bit/384 kHz while DSD256 is available natively and DSD128 is available via DoP.
Digital outputs are via S/PDIF RCA coaxial and Toslink optical for a standard Red Book 16-bit/44.1 kHz signal. Analogue outputs are available for both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA. An RJ45 port connects to the network, there’s an USB-A port for storage options, a RS232 multi-pin socket offers remote and automation system integration, and finally two mini-jack sockets provide extension cable remote and remote trigger options.
The Q5 Transport DAC supports MQA and MQA Studio at up to 24-bit/384 kHz resolution while also being ‘Certified Roon Tested’.
Michi quotes a Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) of over 115dB measured ‘IHF A-Weighted’, while Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (THD+N) is said to be below 0.0006%. Intermodulation Distortion (IMD) is specified as under 0.002%. Internal components feature dual toroidal transformers manufactured in-house and which have been designed to “isolate digital and analog voltage supplies, significantly reducing noise and interference”.
The Q5 Transport DAC mirrors its contemporary Michi stablemates with its luxuriously finished and extremely solid CNC machined aluminium chassis construction. The Q5’s fascia features a high quality TFT colour display which allows viewing CD album artwork. A high quality remote control wand, along the lines of other Michi products, is also provided.
The Michi Q5 Transport DAC will be available from late December 2024 via Australian importer Interdyn’s network of country wide audio specialist retailers.
Michi Q5 Transport DAC
Price: AU$9499
Australian Distributor: Interdyn
+61 3 9426 3600
www.interdyn.com.au
