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Audiophile Dream in Perfect Working Order: Cayin CDT-17A Tube CD PlayerFor sale is an absolute heavyweight of the high-end audio world: The Cayin CDT-17A Tube CD Player. If you are looking for that legendary, warm, organic, and highly detailed analog sound, this reference-class player is for you. It features incredible build quality (weighing approx. 16 kg) and is equipped with four premium output tubes for an exceptional acoustic soundstage.Condition & Functionality:Technical Condition: Tiptop and fully functional. The laser transport reads discs instantly, does not skip, and plays beautifully, flawless and highly musical.Tubes: The original factory tubes are still installed and perform flawlessly, delivering the genuine, warm Cayin signature sound.Cosmetic Condition: The massive brushed aluminum front panel is pristine and clean. There are only some typical, light cosmetic signs of use on the top metal casing from being stacked in a hi-fi rack (please check the detailed photos). Once placed in your setup, it looks absolutely stunning and premium.Specifications & Era:Production Era:Originally introduced in 2005 Weight: Approx. 16 kg (Heavy-duty high-end construction).Shipping & Handling:will pack very well and ship worldwide
The timing matters: this is a 2005–2010-era player, and the CDT-17A is long discontinued rather than a current-generation model. At US$1,117, it looks ambitious rather than a bargain against recorded used sales averaging roughly US$758, though excellent examples with accessories have appeared around this asking level.
Its appeal is substantial: a heavy 16-kg chassis, separate power supplies, true balanced architecture, dual PCM1792 DACs, and a full four-tube 6922 analog output stage give it a distinctive, genuinely high-end presentation. It is especially attractive for a CD-focused system with balanced inputs, and the remote, original tubes, and confirmed 120V operation matter. At this price, insist on flawless transport behavior, quiet tube output, and complete accessories; otherwise, negotiating toward roughly US$800–US$900 would make the proposition much stronger.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Cayin Audio traces its roots to 1993, when Zhuhai Spark Electronic Equipment Co., Ltd. was established in Zhuhai, China. From the outset, the company focused on crafting audiophile-grade components under the Cayin brand, blending Eastern precision with a passion for musical fidelity. Over three decades, it has evolved from traditional hi-fi roots into a multifaceted player, emphasizing equipment that delivers exceptional sound across diverse price points to democratize high-quality audio.
The brand excels in a broad spectrum of categories, with its vacuum tube amplifiers standing out as flagship offerings renowned for warmth and detail. Its portfolio extends to CD players, speakers, digital audio players (DAPs), desktop systems like the i-series, portable amplifiers, in-ear monitors, and even innovative DACs such as the compact RU2 dongle. Since venturing into personal audio in 2013, Cayin has prioritized portable and lifestyle solutions, including the N-series DAPs, all while maintaining rigorous build quality with premium materials like milled aluminum and walnut wood.
Cayin holds a solid mid-to-high-end position in the global hi-fi market, prized by discerning buyers for its value-driven performance and cultural depth. It bridges accessible excellence with boutique appeal, earning acclaim for tube amps that rival pricier rivals, without veering into ultra-esoteric territory. This Chinese powerhouse continues to carve a lasting niche among knowledgeable enthusiasts seeking reliable, soulful sound.
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