Is CD Dead? Manufacturers Say No!

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Is CD Dead or Still Alive in Hi-Fi?

Have you ever heard the phrase “CD is dead“? With the vinyl revival and the rise of high-resolution streaming, many believe that the Compact Disc (CD) is an obsolete format. But if the CD is truly dying, why are so many brands still releasing new CD players and transports?

The answer is simple: the CD remains relevant in Hi-Fi. If you value sound quality, physical music ownership, and the full album experience, this format still has plenty to offer. Let’s dive into facts.

Why Do People Say the CD Is Dead?

Streaming advocates argue that:

✅ Instant access to millions of songs makes CDs irrelevant.
✅ Platforms like Qobuz offer high-resolution audio, matching or surpassing Red Book CD quality.
✅ Personalized playlists eliminate the need for physical discs.

On paper, these arguments make sense. However, they overlook a crucial factor: the real habits of music lovers. If CDs were outdated, why would manufacturers continue to invest in the format?

The Market Hasn’t Let the CD Die

If manufacturers wanted to abandon the CD, they would have done so already. But reality proves otherwise. In recent years, new CD players and transports have emerged, such as:

🔹 Auralic Aquila X3 – a high-end streamer that also plays CDs.
🔹 Wadax Studio Player – a top-tier machine combining streaming and SACD/CD playback.
🔹 Hegel Viking – a traditional CD player, proving that brands still believe in the format.

New releases keep coming because there’s still demand for CD players.

Why Does the CD Still Make Sense?

1. Guaranteed Sound Quality

Streaming can deliver excellent sound, but it depends on internet connection, file compression, and the platform used. CD delivers music without external factors affecting the performance, ensuring consistent sound quality.

2. The CD Is Yours, Streaming Is Not

Owning a CD means real possession of music. An album can be removed from a streaming service without warning. With a CD, there are no subscriptions, restrictions, or monitoring of your listening habits.

3. A Tangible and Collectible Experience

Like vinyl, CDs have emotional value. The cover art, booklet, and the ritual of placing a disc in the player contribute to the enjoyment of listening to music.

4. Better Integration in High-End Systems

Many high-end systems are still optimized for physical sources. A high-quality CD player can provide a more natural and immersive sound than most streamers without requiring additional upgrades.

5. Modern CD Players Are More Versatile

Today’s CD players have evolved. The Accuphase DP-450, for example (review coming soon on MoustachesToys), is not just an excellent CD player but also a high-end DAC capable of converting digital signals from other devices, such as the in-house streamer, the Volumio Rivo.

The CD Still Has a Place in High-Fidelity

Streaming may have taken over the market, but the CD hasn’t disappeared. Its value remains strong among music lovers who prioritize quality, physical ownership, and an authentic listening experience.

The latest CD player releases confirm that the format is still a valid choice in high-fi audio. It may no longer be the dominant format, but it is far from dead.

If you own CDs, maybe it’s time to rediscover the magic of the format. If you don’t, perhaps it’s worth giving it a shot. After all, manufacturers have already delivered their verdict:

📀 The CD is not dead!