Key Differences with SMSL Latest CD Players and Transport: PL100, PL200, PL200T, and VMV T2!!

In recent times, we have seen a surge in demand for physical media such as CDs, Vinyls, and more. This has increased the demand for CD Players in the market. SMSL, a market leader in the desktop hi-fi audio market, has recently launched an amazing collection of CD Players with four different models: the SMSL PL100, SMSL PL200, SMSL PL200T, and SMSL VMV T2. Each model here is designed with premium quality HiFi audio components and supports a variety of features. The PL100 is an entry-level CD player known for its slot-loading CD player, built-in high-performance DAC, and budget-friendly price. The PL200 and the PL200T are more advanced CD Players with top-loading CD playback, built-in flagship DAC in the PL200, and advanced digital output options in the PL200T. The VMV T2 is a premium flagship-grade CD player with Top-loading CD playback, MQA Full Expansion, multiple digital input options, and a proper high-end Digital CD Player. In today’s blog, we are going to cover each one of these high-performance CD players and help you understand their features better. Let’s begin.

SMSL PL100:-

Price: $105.99.

SMSL PL100 is a budget-friendly CD player that brings high-fidelity CD playback with a built-in CD43131 32-bit DAC chipset. SMSL PL100 maximizes the potential of your CDs with its 2nd generation PLL Circuit. The PL100 features slot-loading CD playback. Apart from regular RCA analog output and Headphone output, the PL100 also has Coaxial and Optical digital outputs. This allows the users to connect the PL100 to external DACs in their HiFi Audio chain. This also includes support for MQA decoding using MQA enables DACs in the chain.

SMSL has crafted the PL100 with a high-quality aluminum alloy frame and gold-plated connectors. SMSL PL100 features a 3.5mm headphone output, which makes it easier to pair your IEMs and Headphones with the CD Player. Priced at $105.99, the SMSL PL100 offers an excellent CD Playback experience with top-tier sound quality. It’s an interesting entry point for audiophiles who are seeking a high-fidelity experience with their CD collections.

Key features of SMSL PL100:-

1. Slot-Loading CD Drive.

2. Built-in CS43131 DAC chipset.

3. Multiple DIgital Outputs(Coaxial/Optical).

4. RCA Analog output and 3.5mm Headphone output.

5. Premium, Exquisite Build Quality.

SMSL PL200:-

Price: $669.

Next, we have an outstanding desktop CD player with built-in DAC, the SMSL PL200. The PL200 adopts a top-loading CD Drive and features an exquisite build quality. The DAC section is handled by the flagship AKM AK4499EX+AK4191 DAC chipset, which helps it to process high-fidelity audio signals and provide a clear, detailed audio listening experience. With its flagship DAC chipset, the SMSL PL200 promises high-fidelity PCM and DSD audio signal processing. It also provides full expansion for MQA audio signals.

Along with CD Playback, the SMSL PL200 also has USB and Bluetooth input options. With Bluetooth connectivity, the PL200 supports advanced high-definition codecs, including LDAC, AtpX HD, AptX, Etc. As for CD playback, PL200 also supports MQA-CD playback. It provides a fully versatile experience for the users. As for output options, the SMSL PL200 supports SMSL’s self-developed P.A.S.S.(Precision Access Servo System) Technology. This system enables the PL200 to provide a seamless CD playback with no delay. It also features self-developed vibration dampers that enable smooth CD playback without any vibrations. The PL200 supports Open-Playback mode, the CD player works perfect fine even if you open up the CD Drive’s lid. You just have to long-press the playback button when the top-lid is not closed.

As for output options with the SMSL PL200, we have Headphone output, XLR, and RCA output options. It also supports Coaxial and Optical digital output options, allowing the users to connect the SMSL PL200 to further DACs in the chain.

Key Features of SMSL PL200:-

1. MQA CD Playback.

2. Top-loading drive.

3. USB DAC and Bluetooth Input.

4. Flagship AK4191+AK4499EX DAC chipset.

5. Coaxial/Optical Digital Output Options.

6. Headphone Output Support.

7. XLR, RCA Analog output support.

8. Exquisite aluminum alloy chassis and classy Piano design keys.

SMSL PL200T:-

Price: $499.

The SMSL PL200T is a MQA CD Transport with top-loading CD Drive. It is a high-end CD transport designed for audiophiles seeking premium sound performance. What makes it different from the CD Players here is that this one doesn’t have a headphone output or any other Analog output support. The PL200T supports CD Playback, but you have to use an external DAC to process the audio signal. SMSL PL200T also features SMSL’s self-developed P.A.S.S. servo system, which ensures fast and precise disc reading while minimizing vibrations. This technology is developed to deliver clean, accurate CD playback.

With MQA-CD support, the SMSL PL200T supports full MQA sound signal processing. You can get MQA output through the SPDIF output options(Coaxial and Optical), pair the PL200T with an MQA-enabled DAC and experience top-tier studio-grade sound. The PL200T also has USB input support where it can act as a transport and transmit high-resolution PCM and DSD signals to further DACs in the chain. SMSL PL200T also has support for external clocks. It makes it easy to match input impedance of 50Ω or 75Ω levels. SMSL PL200T also has multiple power supply options, It can be used with USB power, DC power, or AC power. Just like the SMSL PL200, the PL200T also has an all-aluminum CNC-machined chassis with piano-style keys. It also supports an open-lid playback function, just like the PL200. SMSL PL200T is available with us for $499, It can be an ideal HiFi CD Transport for serious enthusiasts who are looking for a dedicated CD Player.

Key Features of SMSL PL200T:-

1. Top-loaded CD Drive.

2. Acrylic top-cover, also supports open-lid playback.

3. MQA-CD function.

4. Multiple output support, including AES/EBU, Coaxial, Optical, I2S for digital outputs, and XLR, RCA for Analog outputs.

5. Independent Clock Input function.

SMSL VMV T2:-

Price: $1,068.

SMSL VMV T2 is a high-end device that is a complete media centre. From CD Playback to high-resolution audio transport, it can act as a flagship source to your desktop chain. The SMSL VMV T2 supports MQA-CD playback and PCM, DSD audio signal transport. It packs a variety of input options, including CD, USB, AES/EBU, and Bluetooth. Bluetooth connectivity here supports advanced high-definition codecs, including LDAC, AptX HD, AptX, etc. For precise timing management, SMSL VMV T2 supports external clock input and output functions. You can synchronize the VMV T2 with external systems using a 44.1KHz word clock and 10MHz standard or atomic clock.

As for CD Playback, the SMSL VMV T2 also has a top-loading CD drive. It also adopts SMSL’s proprietary P.A.S.S. servo system, ensuring smooth, stable CD Playback with no vibration issues. SMSL VMV T2 brings you a flagship experience. From exquisite build quality featuring a premium finish to offering top-quality internal and external components, ensuring we get a high-end user experience with the SMSL VMV T2.

Key Features of SMSL VMV T2:-

1. Top-loaded CD drive.

2. Premium, Exquisite Build Quality.

3. MQA-CD Expansion.

4. Coaxial, Optical, 2xAES/EBU outputs.

5. Dedicated High-End Transport.

6. Input Output for External Clock.

Final Words:-

Well, this is everything about the latest range of CD Players by SMSL. The PL100 packs the perfect CD Playback arrangement alongside a built-in DAC that makes it an appropriate choice for both beginners as well as experienced audiophiles. The PL200 brings an ultimate level of performance with its high-end DAC and wireless Bluetooth connectivity. The PL200T serves as the perfect CD Transport. Lastly, the SMSL VMV T2 is the perfect media centre designed for serious enthusiasts who seek nothing but top-tier performance. So, which one are you liking the most?? Let us know in the comments section. If you have any questions or queries related to any of the SMSL CD Players, you can write to us at support@hifigo.com. We hope this guide helps you learn something new today!!