Onkyo Icon C-30

Onkyo Icon C-30 – The CD player for the uncompromising music lover

The Onkyo Icon C-30 is designed for dedicated CD enthusiasts who want to preserve the physical music medium without compromising on today's hi-fi standards. As part of Onkyo's new Icon series, the C-30 combines advanced digital signal processing, extreme timing precision and mechanically stable construction in an elegant and timeless design that perfectly matches the series' amplifiers and preamplifiers.

The C-30 is not just a nostalgic tribute to the CD format, but a serious high-fidelity player built to extract maximum information, calm and richness of sound from every single disc.

Highlights

• Onkyo VLSC technology for pure, noise-free analog reproduction
• High-precision ±10 PPM clock for stable timing and precise stereo imaging
• Plays CD, CD-R/RW as well as MP3 and WMA files
• Hi-Fi-grade analog and digital outputs
• Resonance-optimized cabinet with blast-finished aluminum front panel
• Designed for perfect integration into Onkyo Icon systems

VLSC – digital signal processing with analog peace of mind

At the heart of the Onkyo Icon C-30 is the brand's proprietary VLSC technology, Vector Linear Shaping Circuit. This technology actively works to eliminate pulse noise and digital artifacts that can occur in conventional DAC circuits. Instead of leaving residual noise in the signal, VLSC reconstructs the signal shape, so the output is smoother, more natural, and free of the harshness often associated with digital playback.

The result is an analog-like sound with greater coherence, better microdynamics and a calm background that makes it easier to focus on the music rather than the technique.

Audible timing precision

The C-30 is equipped with an extremely precise clock with a tolerance of ±10 PPM. This high timing accuracy is essential for correct digital playback, as even small deviations can affect stereo perspective and focus. With the stable clock, instrument placement, depth and spatial awareness are preserved, so the music appears focused and three-dimensional.

The difference is especially clear with complex recordings and acoustic music, where sound and timing fall naturally into place.

Built for mechanical calm and stability

The Onkyo Icon C-30 is designed with vibration control and mechanical stability in mind. The solid front panel in blast-finished aluminum reduces resonances and contributes to a cleaner signal path, where the laser and electronics work under optimal conditions. The cabinet is braced to minimize micro-vibrations that can otherwise affect the precision of the read head and thus the sound quality.

This mechanical calm is a major reason for the C-30's clear and undisturbed reproduction.

Flexible integration into any hi-fi system

On the back, the C-30 offers both analog RCA outputs and digital coaxial and optical outputs. This makes it easy to integrate the player into both classic analog setups and modern systems with external DAC or digital signal processing. Regardless of the configuration, the C-30 delivers a stable and low-noise signal that is perfectly suited to high-end amplifiers.

The player also supports playback of burned CDs and music files in MP3 and WMA format, providing extra flexibility in daily use.

A natural part of the Icon universe

In terms of design, the C-30 follows the Icon series' characteristic design language with clean lines, balanced proportions and an exclusive, minimalist expression. Together with the P-80, M-80 and A-50, it forms a complete system where both aesthetics and sonic philosophy merge into a higher unity.

The C-30 is designed to function as the dedicated digital source in a serious hi-fi setup – not as a compromise, but as a conscious choice for those who value the quality of the CD medium.

CD playback at its best

The Onkyo Icon C-30 is for the listener who still appreciates the physical format and wants to experience their CD collection with maximum clarity, peace and musicality. With advanced signal processing, high mechanical stability and precise timing, it delivers playback that is both engaging and natural.

It's a CD player that proves that the format still has its merits – when treated with the respect and technique it deserves.