Slim Devices Transporter Digital Music Player Review
- Product Name: Transporter
- Manufacturer: Logitech Slim Devices
- Performance Rating:
- Value Rating:
- Review Date: March 06, 2007 09:10
- MSRP: $ 1,999
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
Slim Devices Transporter 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. One upgrade we asked for back when we were reviewing the Squeezebox was a more "normal" form factor that could be rack-mounted into a system and therefore allow the player to blend more naturally into a system instead of standing out like an iPod on a docking cradle… Well, Slim Devices (who was acquired this past year by Logitech) listened to me… OK, maybe it wasn't just me, but the end result 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?
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