The CD has been experiencing a minor renaissance for some time now. With the new CP6, Cayin is now specifically targeting music lovers who want to enjoy their CDs in the highest quality even when on the go. This portable CD player combines a built-in CD drive with a high-performance Hi-Res D/A converter, a balanced headphone amplifier, and a true tube output stage. At the same time, the CP6 functions as a mobile DAC, a Bluetooth receiver, and even a CD ripper.
With a price tag of just under 1,000 euros, the Cayin CP6 is undoubtedly a high-end portable audio player.
CD player, DAC, and headphone amplifier all in one device
The Cayin CP6 is much more than just a portable CD player. Via USB-C, it processes high-resolution music files up to PCM 384 kHz/32-bit as well as DSD256, making it a high-quality external D/A converter for smartphones, laptops, or digital audio players.
Inside, it features two Cirrus Logic CS4308P DACs, an XMOS XU316 USB processor, and a Qualcomm QCC3083 Bluetooth chipset, which supports Bluetooth 5.4 as well as high-quality audio codecs.
For headphone use, a fully balanced four-channel amplifier is available, which, according to Cayin, can drive headphones with impedances between 8 and 600 ohms. The maximum output power is an impressive 2 × 1,300 milliwatts, providing ample headroom even for power-hungry electrostatic headphones or studio headphones.
Real Tubes for Mobile Hi-Fi Enjoyment
The real highlight of the CP6, however, lies in its analog output stage. Instead of a miniature cold-cathode tube, Cayin uses a genuine, directly heated JAN-6418 pentode from Raytheon.
Originally developed for military applications, the vacuum tube enjoys an excellent reputation among tube enthusiasts and is said to deliver a particularly natural, transparent, and spacious sound.
To ensure that mobile operation is not affected by vibrations, the tube is housed in a specially designed silicone damping system. The design is complemented by an anti-shock CD drive and a ventilated aluminum enclosure that ensures reliable cooling.
Three Sound Profiles and Class-A Operation
A so-called “timbre” circuit allows users to adjust the sound character to their personal taste. Users can choose between three different operating modes, including options with and without a tube stage in the signal path.
The amplifier circuit can also be configured. Depending on your preference, the headphone amplifier can operate in either Class A or Class A/B mode.
Bluetooth, Line-Out, and Digital Outputs
When it comes to connectivity options, the Cayin CP6 is exceptionally versatile.
In addition to the two headphone outputs— a 3.5-mm jack and a 4.4-mm Pentaconn connector —both balanced and unbalanced line outputs are available. The player also features optical and coaxial digital outputs for connecting to external D/A converters.
The CP6 receives music wirelessly via Bluetooth 5.4 and supports high-quality codecs such as LDAC, aptX HD, and AAC. In addition, the player can also stream music via Bluetooth to compatible wireless headphones.
CD Ripper for Laptops and Archiving
One standout feature is the built-in CD-ripping function. Audio CDs can be transferred directly to a connected computer as lossless WAV files via USB-C.
Especially for modern laptops without an optical drive, the CP6 thus also serves as a replacement for an external USB CD drive.
Up to 7.5 hours of battery life
According to the manufacturer, the built-in rechargeable battery provides up to 7.5 hours of playback time. It also supports a fast-charging feature.
The CP6 is operated using tactile controls and an integrated color display. The housing, made entirely of aluminum, underscores the high-quality design of this portable player.
Price and availability
The Cayin CP6 is now available. The suggested retail price is 998 euros.
It is precisely the combination of a portable CD player, DAC, CD ripper, and tube amplifier that currently makes the CP6 a truly exceptional product on the market. A detailed hands-on review will soon reveal whether this high level of technical sophistication pays off in terms of sound quality. The test unit has already arrived at our editorial office, and its high-quality build has set the bar high.
Technical Specifications for the Cayin CP6
- Portable CD player with built-in rechargeable battery
- Hi-Res DAC up to PCM 384 kHz / 32-bit and DSD256
- 2 × Cirrus Logic CS4308P DACs
- XMOS XU316 USB Processor
- Qualcomm QCC3083 Bluetooth Chipset
- Bluetooth 5.4
- Bluetooth codecs: LDAC, aptX HD, AAC
- Genuine Raytheon JAN-6418 pentode tube
- Three Timbre Modes
- Switchable between Class A and Class A/B
- Fully Balanced Four-Channel Headphone Amplifier
- Output power: up to 2 × 1,300 mW
- Supported headphone impedance: 8 to 600 ohms
- Headphone outputs:
- 3.5 mm
- 4.4 mm Pentaconn
- Line outputs:
- symmetrical
- asymmetrical
- Digital outputs:
- coaxial
- visually
- Bluetooth Transmitters and Receivers
- USB DAC Function
- CD Ripper (WAV)
- Shock-Resistant CD Drive
- Battery life: up to 7.5 hours
- Fast-charging feature
- Aluminum housing
- Color Display
- Price: 998 euros
- Availability: immediately
