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Slim Devices Transporter Digital Music Player Review

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by Clint DeBoer — last modified March 06, 2007 05:42
Slim Devices Transporter Digital Music Player Review

Slim Devices Transporter

Summary

  • Product Name: Transporter
  • Manufacturer: Logitech Slim Devices
  • Performance Rating: StarStarStarStarStar
  • Value Rating: StarStarStarhalf-star
  • Review Date: March 06, 2007
  • MSRP: $1,999
Specifications

DAC: AKM AK4396 Multi-bit Sigma-Delta D/A, 120dB Dynamic Range, 120dB SNR (A-weighted), -106dB THD+N

Digital Outputs: 15 picoseconds intrinsic jitter (std. deviation), coax, optical, BNC S/PDIF, & balanced AES/EBU

Digital Inputs: Coax, optical and BNC S/PDIF, and balanced AES/EBU inputs can be used to drive the DAC, network streaming or pass-through

Word Clock Input: Allows synchronization to an external clock source

Display: Dual 320x32 grayscale vacuum florescent displays with multiple text, spectrum analyzer and VU views

CPU: 325MIPS 8-way multithreaded, 8MB audio buffer & SlimDSP

Network: True 802.11g wireless, 10/100mbs Ethernet

Decoders: WAV, AIFF, MP3, WMA, FLAC with 24 bit resolution, 44.1, 48 and 96k sample rates

Communications: TCP/IP control, infrared input, infrared output, RS-232

Rack-mount Brackets: Optional

Finish: aircraft grade aluminum cases available with choice of black or clear anodized finishes

Weight: 6kg (13lbs)

Power: Autoranging linear power supply 100-240v, 50-60Hz, 10W

Remote Control: Custom, backlit, 32-key infrared remote

Dimensions: 17”W x 3”H x 12.25”D (433mm x 72mm x 311mm)

Warranty: One year parts and labor; 30-day Satisfaction Guarantee

Pros

  • Well-designed chassis that blends well with esoteric high end gear
  • Cool "force-feedback" TransNav control knob
  • Excellent 802.11g wireless range
  • Digital coax and optical S/PDIF inputs/outputs
  • Wireless bridge option
  • Rhapsody Music Service Support
  • SqueezeNetwork allows use without PC
  • Almost universally compatible with most operating systems

Cons

  • Expensive for casual consumers (who alternatively can get a Squeezebox)
  • No direct "digital" input control on remote

Introduction

I hate CD players. They're bulky and they typically play only 1-5 discs at a time - unless you get a CD changer and that's like getting the family pack at Krystal - it isn't about quality. We're no strangers to Slim Devices Digital Network Music Players. In fact, we've reviewed both the second and third iterations of the Squeezebox Digital Music Players. This product is more than I would have expected - or even hoped for - a completely tricked-out Squeezebox with dual displays, upgraded DAC, and enough functionality to serve as the true powerhouse in any "analogue-is-my-friend" system. But can this new "Cadillac" model really replace your CD player?
  1. Transporter Features and Packaging
  2. Slim Devices Transporter Hardware and Internal Pics
  3. Slim Devices Transporter SqueezeNetwork and Remote
  4. Slim Devices Transporter Listening Tests and Conclusion
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