Shanling CT90 Hi-Fi CD Transport
The Shanling CT90 is the latest evolution in high-fidelity CD transport technology, crafted for serious audiophiles who demand premium performance and refined sound reproduction. Designed with a streamlined, top-loading architecture and built upon the trusted SAA7824 Servo with DA11 Disc Drive, the CT90 offers an exceptional digital output system and advanced compatibility with high-end DACs. With features like I2S output with 10 selectable FPGA modes, dual AES/EBU outputs, high-precision internal clocks, and Bluetooth LDAC input, the CT90 is a powerhouse transport engineered to extract the best from your CD and Hi-Res audio collection.
Specifications
-
Construction: Sleek Hi-Fi chassis inspired by the Shanling SCD3.3
-
CD Drive: Reliable SAA7824 Servo with DA11 Disc Mechanism
-
CD Support: CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MQA-CD
-
Drive Type: Top-loading with dedicated CD Puck and tiltable cover
-
Upsampling Circuit: Built-in (not available on USB output)
-
I2S Output: FPGA with 10 selectable modes for DAC compatibility
-
Digital Outputs: Dual AES/EBU, Coaxial SPDIF
-
USB Audio Output: Proprietary Shanling USB interface
-
Clock System: Dual 45 MHz & 49 MHz clocks
-
Clock Input: External masterclock support (44.1 kHz / 10MHz)
-
Bluetooth Input: Supports LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC
-
USB Drive Playback: Hi-Res audio via Eddict Player app control
-
USB Input: Functions as USB digital transport for computers
-
Power Supply: Linear power with 35W transformer
Expanded Key Features List
-
Premium Construction: Matches the elegant, professional look of Shanling’s SCD3.3 series Hi-Fi components.
-
Top-Loading CD Mechanism: Reliable and user-friendly design with CD puck and tilting lid for easy access and reduced mechanical noise.
-
High Compatibility Outputs: I2S with 10 FPGA modes plus dual AES/EBU and Coaxial outputs for seamless integration with high-end DACs and active speakers.
-
Advanced Bluetooth Input: Stream from mobile devices with high-resolution LDAC and aptX HD codecs for added convenience.
-
Dedicated Upsampling Circuit: Enhances audio signal for better clarity (excluding USB output).
-
External Clock Integration: Connect to a master clock to achieve ultra-precise timing and jitter reduction in your digital chain.
-
USB Audio Functionality: Use the CT90 as a digital transport via USB input from a computer, or playback Hi-Res audio from a USB drive through the Eddict Player app.
-
Robust Power Supply: Linear power supply with a dedicated 35W transformer ensures low-noise operation and high stability.
Q&A Section
Q: What makes the Shanling CT90 different from a traditional CD player?
A: The CT90 is a dedicated CD transport, meaning it reads and sends digital audio to external DACs without internal DAC conversion for purer, more customizable sound.
Q: Does the CT90 support MQA-CD playback?
A: Yes, it fully supports MQA-CDs for high-resolution audio playback when connected to a compatible DAC.
Q: What kind of digital outputs are available?
A: It features dual AES/EBU, Coaxial SPDIF, I2S with FPGA modes, and Shanling’s special USB Audio output for flexible connections.
Q: Can I use Bluetooth to send music to the CT90?
A: Yes, the CT90 includes Bluetooth input supporting LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, and AAC, allowing high-quality wireless streaming from your phone or tablet.
Q: Does it include Wi-Fi or network streaming capabilities?
A: No, the CT90 does not support Wi-Fi or network streaming, keeping its focus on high-purity CD and digital transport performance.
Q: Is there a remote control or mobile app for operation?
A: While no physical remote is listed, USB drive playback is controlled via Shanling’s Eddict Player app, enhancing convenience for Hi-Res playback.
Q: Can I connect it directly to my active speakers?
A: Yes, the dual AES/EBU outputs are perfect for direct connection to high-end active speaker systems with digital input support.
Q: What DACs are compatible with the I2S output?
A: The CT90 offers 10 FPGA-selectable I2S output modes, ensuring broad compatibility with third-party DACs for optimized signal matching.
