Cambridge Audio Azur 851C – used

Cambridge Audio Azur 851C is a well-built CD player and DAC for those who want to get more out of their CD collection while also wanting a flexible digital solution for their hi-fi system.

The Azur 851C works as both a CD player, CD transport, and separate DAC. This makes it well suited as a digital hub in a serious system, where it can handle both CD playback and conversion of the signal from other digital audio sources.

Ambitious CD player with separate DAC

Cambridge has placed great emphasis on the digital signal processing in the Azur 851C. The model uses the company's ATF2 upsampling (Adaptive Time Filtering), which processes and upsamples incoming digital signals to 24-bit/384 kHz. In addition, it features separate DAC circuits and a thoroughly engineered analog output stage.

Sonically, the Azur 851C delivers detailed, open, and controlled reproduction with a large soundstage and plenty of information. This makes it an interesting CD player in a quality system where the physical music collection continues to play an important role.

The digital inputs also make it possible to use the built-in DAC with other digital sources. The Azur 851C is therefore not limited to CD playback, but can also handle conversion from several digital components in the system.

Highlights

• Used Cambridge Audio Azur 851C
• CD player, CD transport, and DAC
• ATF2 24-bit/384 kHz upsampling
• Multiple digital inputs
• Digital outputs for use as a CD transport
• Balanced XLR outputs
• Analog RCA outputs
• Solid and lavish construction
• Detailed, open, and controlled reproduction

Cambridge Audio Azur 851C is an obvious choice for those who still prioritize the CD format while also wanting a flexible DAC for other digital audio sources in the system.