New X Series

CD XT SE +

The latest news is that we are ready to launch a more advanced CD transport to exploit our SE platform further. This new model is called CD XT SE +. (The + being the important bit) We decided to make a more advanced transport so we can react to our customers requests for a higher performance model to upgrade to from the CD 8 SE. This new transport has been given a more generous BOM so we can include an advanced re-clocking module and incorporate a new dual transformer power supply. The PSU is a very advanced design starting with two completely separate, custom designed, low noise transformers allowing us to feed the high current demand elements, such as the servo motors, from a completely separate transformer for the low level signal sections. Revisions to grounding and layout mean that the new XT SE + model has a new main PCB, twin transformers and the new re-clocking module, that together lifts the performance way above last year’s model. Although some of our trade customers (mainly overseas) have been expecting a much more expensive SE offering, we have pitched this new model at the relatively competitive price of £1,500. We see Cyrus as offering not only the very best possible performance but also selling our advanced engineering at competitive prices. No one would call £1500 affordable, but considering the performance and specialist engineering that has gone into this project, it represents outstandingly good value for money.

The new CD XT SE + is priced at £1500.

Cosmetically the new XT +, like all 2010 model year Cyrus CD players, gets a new bezel made from a highly polished acrylic. The new shape is designed to make disk loading easier. Features like the concave lower section protect the disc playing surface as it passes through the bezel. Also, in retrospect, we preferred this slimmer profile that (we think) looks much nicer.

The CD 6 SE and CD 8 SE models remain electrically unchanged. However they both get the new slim bezel from November. Price pressure means we have to raise the CD 8 SE by £50 to help cover the ever increasing costs of legislation and compliance. We have decided to keep the CD 6 SE at £900.

It is our intention to offer our customers a return to factory upgrade from SE players to the 2010 model year specification from February 2010. CD 6 & CD 8 SE models will benefit from the cosmetic upgrades plus a software refresh to ensure the players ability to cope with as many non CD’s is as good as possible. (We make improvements all the time) The CD SE XT to XT + upgrade will include all the elements of the latest 2010 model year player. Prices will be announced in February.

DAC X + and DAC XP + 2010 model year upgrades

Having made such progress with the transport we realised it has been six years since we tuned the DAC X (and matching XP). The additional resolution delivered by the introduction of our SE players suggested to us that it seemed logical to refresh the DAC X. More modern capacitors and a tweak to the main PCBA, plus retuning with the new XT SE + mean the DAC X + now sounds even more open and detailed. Bass rhythms and stop start of notes are now much more easily defined.

DAC X + is £1500

DAC XP + is £2500

Four component CD player for ultimate performance

We intend the new transport and DAC X + to be partnered with two PSX-R power supplies making this a four unit CD player priced at £4,000. Of course because Cyrus systems are designed at the outset to be modular, consumers can achieve this over time, either buying the units individually or upgrading from 6 or 8 series models and taking advantage of our factory upgrade service. 

So what does it sound like?

The combined performance of this group of components is truly state of the art. At first it may not sound dramatic, but give it a couple of favourite discs, and you will hear a level of sophistication that will surprise you. Elements of the music are truly integrated with superb timing and musical cohesion. At the same time it is now possible to hear each element clearly, yet these distinct elements unite to paint a sonic picture of instruments that are without a doubt musicians working together. Pick out a favourite voice and guitar track and the emotion and passion remind you that subliminal elements have in fact been captured in most recordings all along, we just haven’t heard them resolved so clearly before. More complex recordings that previously sounded jumbled and difficult to follow, will now reveal themselves clearly. It is the players ability to reveal each element, yet sound ‘together’ that makes this system such a big step forward for CD enthusiasts.