Denon RCD-CX1 amplifier/SACD combo
Denon is soon releasing in Japan the RCD-CX1 combo. It is the merging of the separate DRA-CX3 amp and DCD-CX3 SACD player, and will cost about $1,700. Power will be 75W/4ohms or 35W/8ohms.
Of course SACD is long ago a dead format, but since no changes were required from the DCD-CX3 player it is not an unwelcome feature. Looking at recent audio equipment news and magazines I cannot help but point out that what one mostly sees is TV sets and 2.1 home cinema combos, or very expensive out-of-this-world high-end components. The new Denon is firmly in the first trend as part of home electronics companies’ efforts to keep turnover healthy from falling Hi-Fi sales.
Back in December 2007 I have discussed the pressure under which audio equipment companies operate. However, the steps taken towards totally digital inter-connectivity and home networking are still slow and limited. In that respect, home cinema amps are the leaders, integrating newer connection options and offering lots of features for the asked money. If you ask me however, getting a good 2-channel system with the new Denon combo and a pair of nice sensitive speakers is bound to offer more peace of mind than any other option…
