Digital Drive: REVIEW: Cambridge Audio 640C version 2 CD Player/Recorder by rkeman

Model:	640C version 2
Category:	CD Player/Recorder
Suggested Retail Price:	$599
Description:	Compact Disc Player
Manufacturer URL:	Cambridge Audio
Manufacturer URL:	Cambridge Audio

Review by rkeman ( A ) on October 20, 2006 at 08:50:05
IP Address: 12.168.121.2

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for the 640C version 2

The Cambridge Audio 640C V. 2 is a high performance single disc Compact Disc player. The player is based on a custom manufactured drive featuring a Sony optical pick-up, dual Wolfson WM8740 digital to analog converters, and a linear power supply with a toroidal transformer. The steel case, aluminum face plate, and substantial weight of the 640C lend a feeling of solidity well beyond it's modest cost.
The performance of the Cambridge Audio 640C V. 2 is basically beyond reproach. Highs have a smooth coherent quality, the midrange is neutral, and the bass is presented with solidity and depth. Soundstage depth and width appear to accurately portray the recording. These qualities really stood out with many of the recent highly processed pop recordings that often sound compressed, harsh and "digital" on lesser DVD and CD players. The sound from the Cambridge gives up little or nothing in comparison to my reference Benchmark DAC-1 digital to analog converter. Both produce very black backgrounds and amazing, yet unpressured, detail with good source material. Error correction appears to be excellent and the remote control is solid and easy to use.
Dedicated CD players are becoming quite scarce and the Cambridge Audio 640C V. 2 provides a level of performance that many DVD players seem to lack. It represents an excellent value deserving the attention of both audiophiles and music lovers alike.

Product Weakness: None
Product Strengths: Excellent sound and solid value

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Innersound ESL-300
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	IRD Purist
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Benchmark DAC-1, Cambridge Audio DVD-89 and 640C, VPI Scout/Rega RB 300/Dynavector 10X5
Speakers:	Vandersteen 3A Signature
Cables/Interconnects:	DIY Belden and Canres
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Pop and classical
Room Size (LxWxH):	22 x 14 x 8
Room Comments/Treatments:	Normal furnishing and carpet
Time Period/Length of Audition:	3 weeks
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	None
Product Strengths:	Excellent sound and solid value